CHS Pacific Ocean Nautical Chart

The West Coast of Canada, bordered by the Pacific Ocean, is one of the most spectacular and demanding sailing areas in the world. Stretching from the United States border in the south (Strait of Juan de Fuca) to Dixon Entrance in the north, this maritime region is characterised by its deep fjords, thousands of islands—including the impressive Vancouver Island—and complex hydrographic conditions. Navigating these waters requires highly accurate documentation to deal with powerful tidal currents, rocky seabeds and frequent fog.

The nautical charts produced by the Canadian Hydrographic Service (CHS) are the official reference for safe navigation in these waters. Established in 1883 and operating under the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, the CHS is responsible for charting one of the world's largest maritime domains, including more than 240,000 kilometres of coastline. For a skipper, fisherman or merchant shipping officer, choosing an official CHS chart is essential for safety and regulatory compliance.

What is this nautical chart used for?

The value of a CHS nautical chart lies in its ability to synthesise technical data into a strategic decision-making tool for the navigator.

• Navigation planning: Although digital navigation is becoming increasingly widespread, paper charts remain highly useful for route planning, training and as a reliable onboard backup.

• Safe navigation in complex areas: They provide an essential level of detail in areas known for strong currents or changing seabeds, such as the St. Lawrence River or the British Columbia coast.

• Precise identification of seabed relief: The chart provides a detailed understanding of underwater topography, helping navigators optimise their routes and avoid hazards.

• Compliance and peace of mind: Using official charts ensures that navigators have access to information validated in accordance with the international standards of the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO).

Which type of navigator is this chart recommended for?

Nautic Way Maritime Bookshop offers these documents to meet the operational needs of a wide range of maritime users.

• Leisure sailors: Whether sailing in coastal or offshore waters, sailors using either sail or power can rely on CHS charts for the accuracy required for day sailing or extended cruises.

• Professional mariners: These charts are essential for commercial shipping, towing, fishing and offshore operations in Canadian waters.

• Navigation schools: They provide an ideal training resource for learning chartwork and analysing the marine environment.

• Explorers of northern regions: For those venturing into the Canadian Arctic or remote areas, the CHS provides exceptional geographic coverage where other publishers may offer less detailed information.

Reading and understanding the chart

The effectiveness of CHS charts is based on the density and clarity of the hydrographic information they provide.

• Detailed bathymetry: Depths are given in metres, supplemented by depth contours and an accurate representation of the seabed.

• Aids to navigation: The chart identifies lighthouses, lights, buoys—including lateral and cardinal marks—and leading lines essential for navigation and position fixing.

• Identified hazards: Shoals, drying rocks, wrecks and shallow-water areas are clearly indicated with a high degree of accuracy.

• Regulated areas: Traffic Separation Schemes, marked channels, and protected or military areas are clearly delineated.

• Various scales: The Pacific Ocean catalogue includes 169 products adapted to different navigation requirements: coastal areas (138 charts), nearshore areas (27), offshore areas (3) and oceanic areas (1).

• Delivery format: Official paper charts are supplied flat and rolled in a tube.

Reliability, updates and safety

Safety at sea depends directly on the reliability and currency of the navigation documents being used.

• Continuous updates: The CHS regularly revises its charts to incorporate Notices to Mariners, new bathymetric surveys and changes to maritime infrastructure.

• Digital transition: Like many hydrographic offices, the CHS is progressively shifting its production towards Electronic Navigational Charts (ENCs), although paper charts remain an essential backup for many skippers.

• Printed to order: At Nautic Way, all nautical charts are printed to order in order to provide the latest available hydrographic corrections.

• Contractual provisions: Due to their rapid obsolescence, these charts cannot be returned or exchanged after ordering, in accordance with the French Consumer Code.

Nautic Way expertise for mariners

Choosing Nautic Way Maritime Bookshop means relying on a recognised specialist in nautical charts and maritime documentation.

• A specialist reference: Nautic Way is an expert in nautical charts and navigation books, with more than 25,000 references in its catalogue.

• Professional expertise: Our team assists leisure sailors and professional mariners in assembling their navigation documentation.

• Location and advice: Based in Challans (85300), France, at 9 rue Benjamin Rabier, the bookshop puts its expertise at the service of safe and efficient navigation on all the world's seas.

FAQ

Which nautical chart should I choose for sailing in the Canadian Pacific Ocean?
The choice depends on your area of navigation. You can use our interactive chart map to identify the chart numbers corresponding to your route, such as 3001 for Vancouver Island or 3412 for the Port of Victoria.

Is this chart sufficient on its own for safe navigation?
Although comprehensive, an official CHS chart is an essential foundation that should be incorporated into a broader navigation strategy including other documents such as sailing directions and light lists. For very small local anchorages, additional information may also be useful.

How often should I replace my CHS chart?
It is essential to use the most recent edition. As Nautic Way prints charts to order using the latest available updates, it is advisable to renew your navigation documents before each major sailing season.

Can paper charts be used with a GPS?
Yes. Official paper charts and digital charts (ENCs) are based on the same official hydrographic data, ensuring consistency when plotting your GPS position on the paper chart.

What is the difference compared with a private publisher such as Navionics?
CHS charts are official documents produced by the Canadian government in accordance with strict IHO standards, whereas Navionics is a private publisher offering digital vector charting solutions that are often used as a complement.