NOAA Arctic Ocean Nautical Chart

Navigation in the Arctic Ocean, particularly along the coast of Alaska, represents one of the most demanding challenges for mariners due to extreme weather conditions, the presence of sea ice and geographical isolation. This page brings together the official nautical charts produced by NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration), the leading U.S. authority for maritime and oceanographic navigation. These charts, which specifically cover U.S. coastal waters, are essential for ensuring safe and accurate route planning in this vast maritime area. Choosing a chart suited to the intended type of navigation is essential for the safety and regulatory compliance of any crew venturing into these polar waters.

What is this nautical chart used for?

The value of a NOAA nautical chart lies in its ability to synthesise complex hydrographic data and turn your navigation medium into a strategic decision-making tool.

• Safe route planning: They are an essential tool for preparing a voyage and identifying safe navigation areas.

• Bathymetric analysis: The charts provide detailed information on water depths and the seabed.

• Identification of aids to navigation: They precisely show the buoys, lighthouses and beacons required for navigation and positioning.

• Understanding oceanographic information: Mariners can find critical information on currents, tides and potential hazards.

• Exploration and anchoring: These charts enable mariners to navigate many nautical miles and discover suitable anchorages.

Which type of navigator is this nautical chart recommended for?

Nautic Way offers these solutions to all types of mariners operating in U.S. Arctic waters.

• Leisure sailors and recreational boaters: Particularly useful when preparing cruises or sailing trips.

• Professional mariners and commercial shipping: NOAA charts are suited to the requirements of commercial navigation.

• Fishermen: An essential tool for securing fishing activities in often challenging environments.

• Offshore sailors: Suitable for both coastal and offshore navigation.

Reading and understanding the chart

The effectiveness of NOAA charts is based on the rigorous organisation of hydrographic data, reflecting a cartographic tradition spanning more than two centuries.

• Available formats: Charts are supplied flat and rolled in a tube.

• Scales and coverage areas: The catalogue includes 36 products, covering coastal areas (29 products) and offshore areas (3 products).

• Depth units: Historically, depths on NOAA charts have been shown in fathoms. However, new paper charts produced from ENC (Electronic Navigational Chart) data show depths in metres.

• Vector standard: Vector charting has become the standard, providing an optimal level of detail while rationalising chart scales.

Reliability, updates and safety

Safety at sea depends on the continuous updating of navigation documentation, an area in which NOAA is undergoing a historic transition.

• End of traditional paper charts: NOAA announced the complete discontinuation of traditional paper chart production as of January 1, 2025.

• ENC printing: To compensate for this discontinuation, Nautic Way uses a system that replaces traditional paper charts with printed ENCs, providing faithful copies updated in near real time.

• Printed to order: All charts are printed to order and incorporate the latest corrections.

• Rapid obsolescence: Due to their frequent updating, these charts cannot be returned or exchanged after an order has been placed.

Nautic Way expertise for mariners

Choosing Nautic Way Maritime Bookshop means relying on a recognised specialist in nautical charting.

• Authorised supplier: Nautic Way offers official NOAA charts, providing access to documentation from the U.S. hydrographic service.

• Specialist expertise: With more than 25,000 references, Nautic Way assists leisure sailors and professional mariners in selecting the appropriate navigation documentation.

• Specialist advice: Based in Challans (85300), France, our team provides clear expert guidance to help customers understand the specific characteristics of nautical charts before purchasing.

• Quality commitment: We provide essential tools for safe and effective navigation on all the world's seas.

FAQ

Which nautical chart should I choose for navigating in the Arctic Ocean?
The choice depends on your specific navigation area. For example, chart 16003 covers the Arctic coast, while 16082 covers the Point Barrow area and its surroundings.

Is this chart sufficient on its own for safe navigation?
Although comprehensive, a nautical chart should form part of a broader navigation strategy that includes other publications, such as sailing directions and almanacs, to ensure comprehensive risk management.

How often should a NOAA chart be replaced?
With the discontinuation of traditional paper charts in 2025, it is essential to use ENC-based printed charts supplied by Nautic Way in order to benefit from the latest available corrections.

Can NOAA charts be used with a GPS?
Yes. Modern paper charts printed by Nautic Way are based on ENCs, the standard for electronic nautical charting, ensuring consistency with your digital navigation systems.

What is the difference between a SHOM chart and a NOAA chart?
SHOM is the French hydrographic service, while NOAA is the official U.S. organisation. Nautic Way offers charts from both publishers to meet the needs of mariners navigating within their respective areas of responsibility.