OpenCPN

3.60

Information

Category:

Maps & Navigation

Price:

$ 9.95

Rank:

Rating:

3.60

Overview

OpenCPN is a comprehensive chart plotter and navigation application designed for both desktop and mobile platforms. This versatile app supports multiple chart formats including BSB v3 raster charts, S57 vector charts, and CM93 vector charts with advanced display capabilities. Users can enjoy features like integrated chart downloading, various display modes, and precise navigation tools.

The application provides essential marine navigation functions such as route planning, waypoint management, and AIS support for enhanced safety. With built-in GPS support, autopilot output, and networked AIS input, OpenCPN ensures accurate positioning and collision alerting. Whether you're a professional mariner or recreational boater, this app offers the necessary tools for safe and efficient navigation.

OpenCPN's value extends beyond basic navigation. It includes advanced features like tide prediction, GPX file support, and Google Maps integration. The app's community-driven development ensures continuous improvement and adaptation to users' needs, making it an indispensable tool for anyone involved in marine activities.

Features

OpenCPN stands out with its extensive feature set tailored for marine navigation enthusiasts. The app supports various chart formats including BSB v3, S57, and CM93, ensuring compatibility with international standards. Its IHO S52 compliant display provides professional-grade chart visualization, while the quilted display mode allows seamless chart transitions.

Navigation features are robust and versatile. The app offers multiple display orientations including north-up, course-up, and chart-up views. Advanced GPS functionalities include device-integrated support, Bluetooth remote connectivity, and networked GPS options. The NMEA 0183 interface with built-in multiplexer enables sophisticated data handling and autopilot integration.

Safety features are paramount in OpenCPN's design. The app provides comprehensive AIS support with target tracking and collision alert systems. Additional safety measures include anchor watch functions, MOB handling, and DSC support. Route planning tools incorporate tidal considerations, while great-circle routing optimizes long-distance navigation. These features collectively enhance situational awareness and operational efficiency at sea.

Map accuracy

Map accuracy in a navigation application like OpenCPN is fundamental to ensuring safe and efficient maritime travel. This feature encompasses the precision of chart data, real-time updates, and comprehensive coverage of navigable waters. OpenCPN excels in this area by supporting multiple chart formats including BSB v3 raster charts RNC S57 vector charts ENC and CM93 vector charts with per-cell offset corrections. The inclusion of IHO S52 compliant display for S57 vector charts ensures that mariners receive accurate and standardized visual information crucial for decision-making. Furthermore OpenCPN offers MBTiles chart overlay support which allows users to integrate custom or specialized chart data enhancing the maps' detail and relevance to specific needs. Integrated Chart Downloader simplifies the process of obtaining updated charts ensuring that users have access to the latest navigational data. With various display modes such as North-up Course-up and Chart-up along with moving-map functionality OpenCPN provides flexible viewing options that cater to different navigational preferences and scenarios. The accuracy of these maps directly impacts the safety and efficiency of voyages allowing sailors to navigate confidently even in challenging conditions. By delivering precise and up-to-date chart information OpenCPN empowers users to make informed decisions reducing risks associated with outdated or incorrect map data.

Route planning

Route planning is an essential component of any navigation system particularly for applications tailored to maritime use such as OpenCPN. This feature involves the ability to create optimize and manage routes taking into account factors like distance time weather conditions and tidal influences. OpenCPN offers robust route planning capabilities starting with basic waypoint navigation which allows users to set specific points along their intended path. Beyond simple point-to-point navigation the application supports advanced functionalities such as true north or magnetic north navigation catering to different navigational requirements and preferences. For more complex journeys OpenCPN includes builtin great-circle routing which calculates the shortest path between two points on the globe ideal for long-distance sailing. Additionally the software provides tide and current prediction and display by location enabling sailors to plan their routes considering these critical environmental factors. Route planning with tidal support further enhances this capability allowing users to optimize their journeys based on predicted water movements. The integration of AIS input with full target tracking and collision alerting adds another layer of safety to route planning by providing real-time information about other vessels in the vicinity. Autopilot output support and networked AIS inputs ensure seamless interaction with onboard systems improving overall navigation efficiency. By offering comprehensive route planning tools OpenCPN not only simplifies the process of preparing for a voyage but also significantly increases safety and operational effectiveness making it an invaluable asset for both recreational and professional mariners.