Understanding the Differences Between Electronic
and Paper Charts
Occasionally, boaters notice that the BlueChart data does not duplicate a particular
feature shown on the paper chart they are using. Garmin uses the best charts available
and carefully turns the paper charts into a digital format for display on an electronic
screen. If there are errors, omissions, or discrepancies on paper, they might occur
electronically too.
On paper charts, sometimes even large features like a breakwater might not be shown
clearly or at all. Large breakwaters are sometimes not shown on the harbor charts, but
are shown on coastal charts—or vice versa! These decisions are made by the chart
maker, such as NOAA/NOS. In some cases, bridges, or other features washed away in
storms decades ago, are still shown on the paper charts. Recent changes in coastlines
are often not reflected on paper charts for years.
The same is true for new marinas and ports. Sometimes, well-known local landmarks
might be shown so small on the paper chart that they are indistinguishable from
surrounding features to someone not familiar with the area. In these cases, a feature
might not be accurately depicted on the electronic chart.
Reporting Chart Errors
Even when a feature is shown on the paper chart, it can be overlooked or misspelled
during the data entry process. These are small problems that can be easily corrected
and do not affect the quality of the overall BlueChart data.
If you notice something missing or incorrect in the BlueChart data, first check the
best available scale paper charts of the area to see how the feature is represented on
the paper chart. If we have not represented it accurately, or if you know additional
information about the feature, please visit Garmin’s Web site and fill out the online
error report form. You can find this form at
http://www.garmin.com/cartography/bluechart/errorForm.html
13
