What type of chart is required for ECDIS use?

For Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems (ECDIS) use, Electronic Navigational Charts (ENC) are required because they are specifically designed to comply with the standards set by the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO). ENCs are vector-based charts that provide up-to-date and legally recognized maritime information, ensuring safe navigation. They incorporate comprehensive details such as navigational hazards, safety features, and coastline information, all optimized for use within ECDIS systems.

The significance of ENCs in ECDIS is that they allow for real-time updates and can provide features such as route planning, monitoring, and alarms if the vessel approaches hazards. This functionality enhances navigational safety and efficiency, which traditional charts cannot offer in the same way.

While Raster Nautical Charts (RNC) can be used in ECDIS, they do not meet the mandatory requirements for primary navigation as they are essentially scanned images of paper charts and lack the interactive capabilities of ENCs. Paper Nautical Charts (PNC) are traditional, printed charts that are not suitable for electronic systems. Digital Terrain Models (DTM) pertain to the representation of terrain and are used for various applications but do not fulfill the specific maritime navigation requirements that ENCs do.