WHAT IS ECDIS?
Nov 24, 2025


PHOTO: NAVICO

ECDIS stands fo ELECTRONIC CHART DISPLAY AND INFORMATION SYSTEM replaces traditional paper nautical charts with a digital interface that complies with International Maritime Organization (IMO) standards. It uses data from GPS, radar, AIS (Automatic Identification System), and other sensors to give the ship's crew a detailed and accurate picture of their surroundings and navigation route

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FUNCTION

Navigation and Route Planning
It allows mariners to plan and monitor voyages using up-to-date electronic charts.

Position Tracking
Continuously tracks the ship’s real-time position using GPS and overlays it on the chart.

Integration with Sensors
Works with radar, AIS, gyrocompass, and echo sounders to display complete situational awareness.

Safety Features
Provides automatic alerts for dangers such as shallow water, restricted zones, or proximity to land or other vessels.

Chart Management
Updates electronic charts automatically to ensure the most current data is available