IHO launches ECS survey

The IHO ECS project team is developing a set of recommendations to enable a digital solution which could be used by vessels that are not mandated to use ECDIS (electronic chart display and information system).

“Currently the only electronic charting products that meet SOLAS Chart Carriage requirements are electronic navigational charts used on an ECDIS – with appropriate backup arrangements – or a paper chart – with some exceptions which we are hoping to capture with our survey,” said the project team in a statement.

“This leaves a gap for those vessels wanting to navigate electronically using an ECS or required, by regulation to use ENC when navigating electronically.”

The IHO ECS team believes an international, standardised approach is critical in the creation of a digital solution for mariners and vessels that fall below the ECDIS mandate which is accessible and easy to understand and implement.

“The aims of the IHO ECS PT cannot be achieved by a sole member state and instead requires collaboration and co-operation with the mariner and international vessel community who are key stakeholders in this project,” said the team.

The survey can be found here.