ADMIRALTY CHARTS & PUBLICATIONS
Admiralty Charts and Publications are official nautical charts and sailing publications produced by the UK Hydrographic Office (UKHO). Recognized by IMO and SOLAS, they provide essential information for safe navigation, including depths, hazards, routes, tides, and maritime regulations. Ships must carry up-to-date Admiralty charts and publications appropriate to their voyage to comply with SOLAS Chapter V.
Are Admiralty charts mandatory under SOLAS?
Yes. SOLAS Chapter V, Regulation 19 requires ships to carry official and up-to-date nautical charts and publications, such as Admiralty charts, suitable for the intended voyage.
What is the difference between Admiralty paper charts and ENCs?
- Paper Charts: Traditional printed charts requiring manual correction.
- ENCs: Digital charts used with ECDIS, updated electronically and mandatory for ECDIS-fitted vessels.
Who approves Admiralty charts and publications?
They are issued by UKHO, a government authority, and are internationally accepted by IMO as official navigational products.
What Admiralty publications are required onboard?
Commonly required publications include:
Admiralty Sailing Directions
Admiralty List of Lights
Admiralty List of Radio Signals
Admiralty Tide Tables
Admiralty Mariners’ Handbook
How often must Admiralty charts be updated?
Charts and publications must be kept fully corrected and up to date, using Admiralty Notices to Mariners (NTMs) or digital updates for ENCs.
Are digital Admiralty publications acceptable under SOLAS?
Yes. Admiralty Digital Publications (ADP) are SOLAS-compliant when properly licensed, updated, and accessible onboard.
What happens if charts are not corrected?
Uncorrected charts can lead to PSC deficiencies, detention, and increased risk of grounding or collision.
Are Admiralty charts required on all types of ships?
Yes, for all SOLAS-applicable vessels, including cargo ships and passenger ships, according to voyage and trading area.
How are chart corrections verified during inspections?
Port State Control may check:
Latest NTMs applied
Correction logs
Valid licenses for ENCs and digital publications
Can Admiralty charts be replaced by private charts?
No. Only official charts issued by or on behalf of a government hydrographic office (like Admiralty) are accepted under SOLAS.
Conclusion
Admiralty Charts and Publications are SOLAS-approved, IMO-recognized tools essential for safe and compliant navigation. Keeping them corrected, updated, and voyage-appropriate ensures regulatory compliance and enhances safety at sea.