Nautical chart Kartverket - 315 - Gronlandshavet

This kartverket - Norwegian Nautical Chart paper navigation chart, polar chart (flat chart) covers Arctic Ocean, polar region, Norwegian and Greenland Seas, the area Gronlandshavet.

Norwegian nautical charts, produced by the official hydrographic service of Norwegian Mapping Authority (Kartverket), cover the entire Norwegian coastline—from the Skagerrak to the North Cape—including fjords, archipelagos, and Arctic waters.

Sailing in Norway means navigating through one of the most spectacular yet demanding maritime environments in the world: deeply indented coastlines, narrow fjords, complex local currents, rapidly changing weather, and numerous isolated hazards. In such conditions, choosing the right nautical chart is not optional—it is fundamental to safe navigation.

These charts are intended for a wide range of users, from recreational sailors cruising along the coast to offshore navigators and maritime professionals (fishing, transport, expeditions). In Norwegian waters, cartographic accuracy is not a convenience—it is a safety requirement.

What is this nautical chart used for?

Norwegian Nautical Charts are designed to support real-life navigation scenarios, often in technically challenging environments.

Coastal navigation in fjords and archipelagos

Norwegian fjords require precise understanding of depths, underwater topography, and narrow passages. These charts help anticipate critical routes and identify safe, sheltered areas.

Port approaches and anchorages

Norwegian ports are often confined or exposed. Charts provide detailed information on access routes, leading lines, and secure anchoring zones.

Offshore navigation along the coast

For long-distance cruising or coastal passages, these charts help secure routing, identify shelters, and plan stopovers effectively.

Professional use and fishing

Highly detailed bathymetric data is particularly valuable for fishermen and professionals operating in areas with significant seabed variations.

Compared to digital-only solutions, paper charts provide a continuous and strategic overview that is essential for understanding Norway’s complex coastal geography.

Who is this chart recommended for?

Beginner sailors (with supervision)

Entry-level sailors can use these charts within a structured or guided framework to learn how to interpret complex marine environments.

Experienced sailors

This is the primary audience: autonomous skippers navigating coastal or offshore routes who require reliable, detailed information.

Maritime professionals

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

Day and night navigation

Thanks to comprehensive information on lights, buoys, and landmarks, these charts are usable in all visibility conditions.

Use alongside electronic tools

Paper charts complement GPS devices, chartplotters, and ECDIS systems by providing a broader, more strategic perspective.

The goal is to help each navigator clearly assess whether this chart matches their real navigation needs.

Reading and understanding the chart

Scale and level of detail

Norwegian charts are available at multiple scales:

• small-scale charts for offshore navigation,
• large-scale charts for fjords, harbors, and complex coastal areas.

Large-scale charts are essential in narrow or highly detailed zones.

Key information displayed

• Detailed bathymetry: depths, slopes, seabed features.
• Aids to navigation: buoys, beacons, lights, cardinal marks.
• Isolated dangers: rocks, shoals, wrecks.
• Ports and anchorages: sheltered areas and facilities.
• Coastal features: visual references critical in Norway.

Required skills

• understanding international chart symbols,
• interpreting depth datums,
• correctly reading buoyage systems (IALA).

Even the best chart requires proper interpretation—it is an active navigation tool.

Reliability, updates, and safety

Official source and accuracy

These charts are produced by the Norwegian Mapping Authority, ensuring high hydrographic accuracy.

Update system

Corrections are issued regularly through Notices to Mariners, covering:

• buoyage changes,
• port developments,
• updated safety information.

Importance of edition date

A recent chart ensures accuracy. An outdated, uncorrected chart may pose serious risks.

GPS compatibility

Charts are aligned with international reference systems such as WGS 84, ensuring consistency with GPS positioning.

Best practices

• always check the chart edition,
• apply available corrections,
• cross-check multiple sources,
• never rely solely on electronic systems.

In Norwegian waters, where conditions can evolve quickly, discipline and accuracy are essential.

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

Advantages of paper charts

• immediate global overview of fjords and coastline,
• total independence from power sources,
• enhanced route planning and anticipation,
• superior readability in complex environments.

Complementarity with digital tools

Electronic tools provide:

• real-time positioning,
• instant accuracy,
• integrated weather data.

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

When paper charts are indispensable

• navigating narrow fjords,
• areas with limited digital coverage,
• remote or demanding navigation,
• training and skill development.

Experienced navigators rely on both formats—they do not choose one over the other.

Expert FAQ

Which nautical chart should I choose for sailing in Norway?

A combination of charts is recommended: general charts for coastal navigation and detailed charts for fjords and harbor approaches.

Is this chart sufficient on its own?

No. Safe navigation requires combining charts with GPS, sailing directions, and real-time observation.

How often should I replace a nautical chart?

Whenever a new edition is released or when updates are no longer applied.

Can this chart be used with a GPS?

Yes. These charts are compatible with modern GPS systems thanks to their WGS 84 reference.

What is the difference between Norwegian charts and SHOM charts?

Each hydrographic office covers its own waters. Norwegian charts are the official reference for Norway, while SHOM covers French waters.

Why are paper charts still essential?

They provide independence, a global overview, and a reliable backup in case of electronic failure.

Conclusion

Norwegian Nautical Charts are essential tools for navigating one of the world’s most demanding and rewarding maritime environments. Their accuracy, reliability, and level of detail make them indispensable for any serious navigation project in Norwegian waters.

Choosing the right chart—up-to-date and properly used—means navigating with greater anticipation, control, and confidence. Nautic Way supports this approach by offering a carefully curated selection tailored to the needs of demanding sailors.

Norwegian Nautical Chart 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.