Nautical chart IHO - 415 - Suðureyri

This Icelandic Hydrographic Office paper navigation chart (flat chart) covers Norwegian and Greenland Seas, the area Suðureyri.

Nautical charts produced by the Icelandic Coast Guard Hydrographic Department cover all Icelandic waters, including the country’s coastline, fishing grounds, and key routes across the North Atlantic.

Sailing around Iceland means operating in a demanding maritime environment: rugged volcanic coastlines, irregular seabeds, rapidly changing weather, ocean swell, frequent fog, and limited sheltered areas. In addition, local currents and intense fishing activity require constant vigilance.

These charts are intended for experienced coastal sailors, offshore navigators, and maritime professionals. In this region, choosing the right nautical chart is not optional—it is essential for safe navigation.

What is this nautical chart used for?

Icelandic nautical charts are designed for real-world navigation, often in challenging conditions.

Demanding coastal navigation

The Icelandic coastline features numerous capes, bays, and fjords. Charts help identify navigable waters, hazards, and the few available shelters.

Port approaches

Icelandic harbors are often exposed to ocean conditions. Charts provide detailed access routes, depths, and infrastructure information.

Offshore navigation in the North Atlantic

For transatlantic sailors or those navigating toward Greenland or the Faroe Islands, these charts are essential for planning landfalls and securing approaches.

Professional use and fishing

Accurate bathymetric data is critical for fishing operations in rich but complex waters.

Compared to digital-only solutions, paper charts provide a stable, comprehensive overview that remains reliable in all conditions.

Who is this chart recommended for?

Experienced sailors

These charts are primarily designed for autonomous skippers capable of handling demanding conditions.

Offshore navigators

Ideal for long-distance routes across the North Atlantic or northern passages.

Maritime professionals

Fishing, transport, and scientific missions rely on the accuracy of these charts.

Day and night navigation

Detailed information on lights and navigation aids allows safe use in varying visibility conditions.

Complement to electronic systems

In areas where electronic equipment may be affected by conditions, paper charts remain a critical reference tool.

These charts are intended for real, often demanding navigation scenarios requiring preparation and autonomy.

Reading and understanding the chart

Scale and level of detail

Icelandic charts are available at different scales:

• small-scale charts for offshore navigation,
• large-scale charts for coastal approaches and ports.

Large-scale charts are strongly recommended near the coast.

Key information displayed

• Bathymetry: depths and significant variations.
• Seabed relief: abrupt or irregular features.
• Isolated dangers: rocks, shoals.
• Ports and anchorages: limited but strategic.
• Coastal features: essential visual references.

Points of attention

• rapidly changing weather conditions,
• limited sheltered areas,
• need for careful route planning.

Accurate chart reading is essential for safe navigation.

Reliability, updates, and safety

Official source

Charts are produced by the Icelandic Coast Guard Hydrographic Department, ensuring reliable data aligned with international standards.

Updates

Corrections are issued through Notices to Mariners, reflecting changes in buoyage and infrastructure.

Importance of edition date

Using an up-to-date chart reduces uncertainty. Older charts may contain outdated information.

GPS compatibility

Charts use reference systems such as WGS 84, ensuring compatibility with GPS positioning.

Best practices

• check edition dates and updates,
• monitor weather conditions,
• cross-check multiple information sources,
• maintain redundancy in navigation tools.

In Icelandic waters, preparation and discipline are key to safety.

Paper charts vs digital charts: when and why choose paper?

Advantages of paper charts

• full overview of Iceland’s coastline,
• independence from power sources,
• reliability in harsh conditions,
• better route anticipation.

Complementarity with digital tools

Electronic systems provide:

• real-time positioning,
• weather data,
• navigation assistance.

However, they do not replace the strategic understanding provided by paper charts.

When paper charts are indispensable

• offshore navigation,
• harsh weather conditions,
• remote areas,
• safety backup in case of failure.

In the North Atlantic, paper charts remain a core navigation tool.

Expert FAQ

Which nautical chart should I choose for sailing in Iceland?

A combination of charts is recommended: general charts for offshore navigation and detailed charts for coastal areas.

Is this chart sufficient on its own?

No. It should be used alongside GPS, weather data, and real-time observation.

How often should I replace a nautical chart?

Whenever a new edition is released or significant updates occur.

Can this chart be used with a GPS?

Yes. These charts are compatible with modern GPS systems using the WGS 84 reference.

What is the difference compared to SHOM charts?

Each hydrographic office covers its own region. Icelandic charts are the official reference for Iceland.

Why are paper charts still essential?

They provide a reliable backup and a complete overview, especially in areas where electronic systems may fail.

Conclusion

Icelandic Hydrographic Office nautical charts are essential tools for navigating around Iceland—an environment that demands precision, anticipation, and autonomy.

Choosing the right chart, keeping it updated, and using it correctly ensures safer and more controlled navigation. Nautic Way supports this approach by offering a carefully curated selection tailored to the needs of experienced and committed sailors.

Icelandic Hydrographic Office nautical charts are updated daily and printed only on demand. On the day of printing, they incorporate the latest updates. The chart's publication year is indicated on it.

We strive to offer only the latest versions of nautical charts incorporating the most recent updates.

All nautical charts, whether paper or digital, are printed on demand and include the latest updates. In accordance with Article L221-28 of the French Consumer Code, the right of withdrawal cannot be exercised for goods liable to become obsolete rapidly. Paper charts and digital charts are neither returnable nor exchangeable. Consequently, these orders are final upon placement by the Customer, according to the terms and conditions specified in these General Terms and Conditions of Sale.