SeaPro Navigation Software

Introducing SeaPro marine navigation software

SeaPro is a computer-based marine charting and navigation system designed to support passage planning and navigation monitoring in coastal and offshore waters. It is intended for experienced recreational sailors as well as professional users who need to combine digital nautical charts, route information and, depending on the configuration, selected instrument, weather and routing data.

The SeaPro range includes several versions for different operational requirements. Available functions depend on the software version, installed modules, compatible chart formats and connected onboard equipment. SeaPro can be used to plan a cruise, monitor a route, assess a longer passage or integrate navigation information within a computer-based system.

The software runs on a computer and supports several types of digital marine charting, depending on the configuration. This allows users to select charts according to their cruising area and navigation requirements. The range includes solutions for recreational boating as well as specific versions intended for certain professional applications.

What is SeaPro used for?

Marine navigation software does not replace navigational knowledge or proper passage planning. It can, however, bring relevant information together, display the vessel’s geographical situation and help organise the different stages of a voyage.

Depending on the version and setup, SeaPro can be used to:

• display compatible digital marine charts on a navigation computer;

• create routes using waypoints;

• calculate distances and review information about the next waypoint;

• monitor the vessel’s progress when a GPS position is available;

• record tracks and maintain a navigation log;

• display compatible digital weather information for passage assessment;

• integrate AIS, radar or onboard instrument data where supported;

• prepare route plans using parameters such as vessel speed and available current information.

These functions provide a working environment for assessing a passage and monitoring its progress. The precise capabilities available must be checked against the relevant SeaPro version and hardware configuration.

Digital marine charts compatible with SeaPro

Chart selection is essential when setting up a navigation system. Depending on the version and options, SeaPro supports several digital chart types, including vector charts and raster charts.

Vector charts

Vector charts represent geographical features as structured digital data. They may include coastlines, depths, hazards, navigational aids and harbour features. Depending on the chart format, users can zoom, adjust the displayed information and inspect the properties of individual chart objects.

SeaPro supports LiveChart vector charts and certain S-57 ENC charts. Navionics charting may also be available in configurations equipped with the relevant option.

Official ENC charts must be distinguished from other commercial vector chart products. Their data source, official status, technical format and conditions of use may differ. Technical compatibility with SeaPro does not, by itself, establish that a particular chart system meets the regulatory requirements applicable to a vessel.

Raster charts

A raster chart is a georeferenced digital image of a chart. It retains the visual layout of the original chart, including its symbols, annotations and graphical presentation.

Depending on the software version and available chart data, SeaPro can use several raster formats, including ARCS, BSB and certain NV Charts products. These formats may be useful for navigators who prefer a familiar chart presentation on screen.

Vector and raster charts work differently. The appropriate choice depends on the required coverage, available format, preferred display and features supported by the installed SeaPro version.

LiveChart charts for SeaPro: selecting the right coverage

LiveChart marine charts are designed for use with SeaPro. They provide digital chart coverage for a defined geographical area, provided the necessary software configuration and chart authorisation are in place.

When selecting a digital chart, users should consider:

• the geographical area to be covered;

• departure and destination ports;

• planned stops and anchorages;

• intermediate navigation areas;

• the required level of detail;

• compatibility with the installed SeaPro version.

For a cruise in the English Channel and Atlantic, for example, the selected chart coverage must match the intended route and include the necessary areas. The same principle applies to Mediterranean passages, where the relevant coastlines, ports and intermediate waters must be covered.

A regional chart should not be assumed to cover every part of a voyage. Before departure, check the entire route, including harbour approaches and intermediate areas. Chart update arrangements and compatibility with the software should also be confirmed.

Route planning and navigation monitoring

SeaPro allows users to create a route by placing waypoints on the chart or entering their coordinates. These points define the successive stages of a passage. Routes can then be reviewed, modified and saved for later use.

Depending on the configuration, route monitoring can provide information such as the distance to the next waypoint, the required bearing and estimated arrival time. When a GPS position is available, the software can compare the vessel’s position with the planned route and help the navigator monitor progress.

Consider a coastal passage between two ports on the Atlantic coast. The navigator can create several waypoints, assess distances, organise the passage and check chart coverage. During the voyage, the initial plan can be compared with the vessel’s actual progress, and the route can be adjusted to reflect conditions at sea.

Longer passages require additional checks, including fuel or energy reserves, weather forecasts, currents, potential stops, traffic separation schemes and alternative plans. SeaPro can support this process, but safe decisions require a complete navigational assessment and reliable information appropriate to the situation.

Routing, weather and tidal currents

Routing involves assessing one or more possible tracks while taking account of vessel performance and navigational conditions. Depending on the version and options, SeaPro provides route-planning functions that can use current information or digital weather data.

GRIB weather files can contain information such as wind, atmospheric pressure and wave conditions. Where the relevant data is available, certain routing functions can use these forecasts to compare routes or assess expected conditions along a passage.

For sailing yachts, vessel performance data and polar diagrams may help evaluate a route in relation to the wind. Some configurations for motor vessels can estimate fuel consumption as part of route planning. These features are not necessarily included in every version.

Routing calculations do not guarantee future conditions. Weather forecasts change, current data is not equally available or accurate in every area, and a vessel’s actual performance depends on loading, condition and the conditions encountered. Routing results should therefore be treated as decision-support information, not as a route to follow without further assessment.

GPS, AIS and onboard instruments

SeaPro can be integrated into a navigation setup containing several electronic devices. Available functions depend on the interfaces, communication protocols and software version.

With a compatible GPS source, the software can display the vessel’s position and record its progress. The navigation log can retain information about the voyage and help users review selected events afterwards.

When a compatible AIS receiver or transponder is connected, information received from equipped vessels can be displayed on the chart. This can improve situational awareness, but it does not replace continuous visual and auditory lookout.

Certain configurations can also integrate compatible radar equipment, onboard instrument data or NAVTEX information. Autopilot control likewise depends on the software version, interfaces and compatibility of the connected equipment.

Before choosing a setup, check the available connections, supported communication protocols and functions actually included. The computer, software and onboard instruments must be correctly configured to exchange the required data.

SeaPro for recreational and professional navigation

SeaPro addresses several types of navigation requirement. For recreational sailors, it can help plan a cruise, organise passage stages and monitor a route on screen. For offshore navigation, the available charting, weather and routing functions can contribute to passage assessment.

The range also includes versions designed for specific applications, including certain maritime patrol, pilotage and offshore platform protection uses. These versions should not be confused with recreational configurations: their purposes and feature sets differ.

Selecting an appropriate solution starts with the vessel type, cruising area, existing equipment, chart requirements and desired functions. The user’s experience and the intended level of onboard integration should also be considered.

SeaPro and other nautical publications

Navigation software is one part of a complete navigational toolkit. Digital charts do not automatically replace paper charts, sailing directions, pilot books, tide tables or regulatory publications needed to prepare a passage.

Charts from Shom, Admiralty, NGA and other hydrographic offices are produced for specific areas and under different arrangements. Availability in a particular digital format depends on the publisher, the data type and compatibility with SeaPro.

Passage planning should also take account of available chart corrections, navigational warnings, weather information and publications relevant to the area being visited. The coverage, currency and terms of use of each resource should be checked.

Displaying a chart on screen does not, by itself, guarantee that all information required for safe navigation is available. Sound passage planning depends on cross-checking data, maintaining an effective lookout and understanding the limitations of the equipment.

How to choose the right SeaPro navigation software

The right SeaPro version depends primarily on the intended use. A setup focused on chart display and route monitoring may require a different configuration from a system using advanced weather routing, AIS or radar functions.

Before selecting a version, check:

• the SeaPro version and included features;

• compatibility with the computer being used;

• supported digital chart formats;

• geographical coverage for the intended routes;

• any required optional modules;

• compatibility with existing GPS, instruments, AIS or radar;

• route and waypoint import/export options;

• chart update arrangements.

Checking these points in advance helps avoid selecting software or chart data that does not fit the onboard setup. It also makes it easier to plan the necessary equipment and build a coherent navigation system.

FAQ – SeaPro navigation software

What is SeaPro navigation software used for?

SeaPro is computer-based marine charting and navigation software. Depending on the version, it can display digital charts, create routes, monitor vessel position and use selected navigation data.

Can SeaPro be used for coastal and offshore navigation?

Yes, depending on the chart coverage and available features. It can support coastal passages and longer voyages, provided the selected charts cover the complete intended route.

What is the difference between SeaPro and a digital marine chart?

SeaPro is the software used to display and work with compatible charts. The digital chart contains geographical and nautical information. The software and chart data are separate components and must be compatible.

Which marine charts are compatible with SeaPro?

Depending on the version and options, SeaPro supports several formats, including LiveChart, certain S-57 ENC charts, ARCS, BSB, selected NV Charts products and optional Navionics charting. Exact compatibility should be checked before purchase or installation.

Are LiveChart charts designed for SeaPro?

Yes. LiveChart charts offered for SeaPro are intended for use within that software environment. The selected coverage must match the intended cruising area and be compatible with the installed version.

Can SeaPro display the vessel’s GPS position?

Yes, when a compatible GPS source is correctly connected and configured. The position can then be displayed on the chart and used to monitor progress along a planned route.

Does SeaPro support weather routing?

Certain versions and configurations provide routing functions that use weather data, including GRIB files, and may take vessel performance into account. Available features depend on the options installed and the data supplied.

Can SeaPro connect to AIS or radar equipment?

Some configurations support compatible AIS receivers or transponders and radar interfaces. Check the software requirements, available interfaces and compatibility of the onboard equipment.

Does SeaPro replace paper charts and nautical publications?

No. Digital charts are a navigation tool, but they do not automatically replace paper charts, nautical publications, safety information or other required documents. Applicable requirements depend on the vessel and the type of voyage.

How should I choose a SeaPro version?

The choice depends on the cruising area, required functions, chart formats and equipment already installed onboard. Compare the features included in each version and check compatibility across the complete setup.