BEST COMPUTER NAV SOFTWARE?

[leadingedge]

I'm sure this has been covered before, but...

Am looking for a backup to my chartplotter I can put on my computer. Will need a GPS module, and software and charts.... any suggestions? We boat in Canada and US.

[denverd0n]

Originally Posted by leadingedge

I'm sure this has been covered before, but...

It has. Take a look at the OpenCPN sub-forums.

(Or should that be sub-fora?)

[jcapo]

Not free but very affordable.

Polar Navy - Marine Navigation Software

I've been using it for 3 years for coastal US and ICW. Integrates Active Captain data also. Just a happy customer.

[jackdale]

I use OpenCPN. The cost of Canadian charts may take you back a bit, howver they are less expensive than the paper version.

BTW - paper charts and publications are a requirement in Canada.

Most vessels of any kind in Canada have an obligation to carry and use official charts and publications and to keep them up to date. The chart carriage requirements are listed in the Charts and Nautical Publications Regulations, 1995 of the Canada Shipping Act.

CHS paper charts meet the requirements of the chart carriage regulations. CHS digital charts meet the requirements of the chart carriage regulations under certain circumstances. CHS Electronic Navigational Charts (ENCs) meet the requirements provided they are used with an Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS). CHS raster charts meet the requirements only if paper charts are carried and used as a backup.

For further information on which charts meet the official requirements, please see our CHS Official Products and CHS Licensed Manufacturers.

I have not seen it enforced. Yet.

[Cotemar]

OpenCPN is the way to go. Well supported and Free

[Stu Jackson]

There no "Best" - it's a boat, and a compromise.

There are dozens of charting programs available. Google could be a resource for you. Some cost $, some are free, Canadian charts never.

Find one that you like. I have two or three, each one has advantages & disadvantages.

GPS puck? BU-353

[weavis]

Nimble Navigator - Marine Navigation and Charting Software [Navstick]

[Subway Sailor]

Originally Posted by weavis

Nimble Navigator - Marine Navigation and Charting Software [Navstick]

ok the idea of everything on the stick seems great but are you who's making it?

[weavis]

Originally Posted by Subway Sailor

ok the idea of everything on the stick seems great but are you who's making it?

Nope
I have no affiliation with the company at all.

[IslandHopper]

Transas Navigator, but it ain't cheap.........

[belizesailor]

I run FUGAWI (full featured and not free) on my laptop and Navionics (limited functionality, but low cost considering it includes charts) on my tablet. I like having multiple options and multiple versions of charts to compare.

[colemj]

Originally Posted by jackdale

I use OpenCPN. The cost of Canadian charts may take you back a bit, howver they are less expensive than the paper version.

BTW - paper charts and publications are a requirement in Canada.



I have not seen it enforced. Yet.

Interesting. That act also states that it is a requirement that all charts being used in an area are the most recent versions of those charts. I wonder how many people who do have paper charts are in compliance with that part.

Mark