Small craft forge ahead with electronic chart systems

摘要

The non-SOLAS electronic charting market, far from being a poor relation, offers even greater functionality than that found in big-ship systems, as George Marsh discovers. Electronic chart systems (ECS) and the charts used in them are supposed to be inferior to the full electronic chart display and information systems (ECDIS) and the officially-approved electronic navigation charts (ENC) intended for SOLAS vessels. In terms of standards and approvals, they no doubt are, but when it comes to capability they are certainly no pale shadow. Given the unfettered adoption of technology that the less regulated sector can enjoy, and the hesitant take-up of ECDIS to date, many small craft operators are benefiting from capabilities that might astound their SOLAS brethren.