Navionics vs C-Map Chartplotter charts

[Richard Formica]

Hi,
Acknowledging that a chartplotter does not replace NOAA charts, can I get some opinions on the merits and bad points of these two types of chart plotter formats? In a recent, maybe the past year, Practical Sailor review it was stated that the difference in format does not impact materially on the type of chart plotter to buy. Any thoughts about this?
Thanks,
rich




richard.formica@yale.edu

[Ed Haley]

The important thing to do is see the difference between Vector charts and Raster charts. IMHO, Vector electronic charts have it all over raster charts.

Vector database is like a word database and takes up less memory, Rasters are pictures requiring lots of memory.

Vector chart words do not scale larger as you zoom in on the marine features obliterating parts of your chart. Raster words do.

In Vector charting, if you choose to have "Course up" on your screen instead of North up, the chart rotates as you travel but the words stay horizontal on the screen. Everything rotates in Raster charts.

Vector charts cost more, however, than raster charts.

I believe all Navionics are Vector charts. Passport makes them too.

I think it would be wise to determine what type of chart you prefer and then find a Chartplotter or Laptop that will run your electronic preference.

Ed Haley
Captain Mokita
CD330 #1



eghaley@twcny.rr.com