NAVIGATIN

G THE
MAST
ERING
ECDIS
DIGITAL
FOR
COG,
SOG,
FILM TREATMENT

COURSE LEARNING
OUTCOM OUTCOME
Explain the significance of data from

(LO2.1)
Students will learn how to: ENCs.

E (CO2):
• Monitor, interpret, and analyze data
from ECDIS. Use ENCs to determine key
navigational metrics such as:
• Understand the limitations of the
equipment. Course Over Ground (COG)
• Recognize the role of connected
sensors like Radar and AIS (Automatic Speed Over Ground (SOG)
Identification System) and their
interface with ECDIS. Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA)
• Factor in the prevailing circumstances
and conditions when using ECDIS for
navigation.
 OVERVIE
W OF
ECDIS:
The Electronic Chart Display and
Information System (ECDIS) is a
sophisticated navigation tool that
integrates various sensor data to aid in
safe and efficient maritime navigation.
It replaces traditional paper charts and
combines data from the Electronic
Navigational Charts (ENCs) with inputs
from multiple navigational instruments
to provide real-time situational
awareness.
 Key
Function
• Real-time Display of Position:
ECDIS displays the vessel’s
position on an ENC in real-time.
s of
• Integration with Sensors: ECDIS
interfaces with sensors like Global
Positioning System (GPS), Radar,
ECDIS:
Automatic Identification System
(AIS), Echo Sounder, and
Gyrocompass to provide
navigators with accurate and up-
to-date information.
• Route Planning and Monitoring:
ECDIS allows navigators to plan
routes and monitor progress,
helping to avoid obstacles and
hazards.
• Alarms and Alerts: It generates
alarms for dangers such as
proximity to shallow water,
obstacles, or restricted areas.
FILM TREATMENT ABYSS OF DECEPTIONS

IMPORTANCE ECDIS data must be constantly monitored,

interpreted, and analyzed to ensure safe

OF navigation. Understanding the limitations of

both the system and the sensors connected

MONITORING
to it is crucial for effective decision-making.

AND
INTERPRETATIO
N
FILM TREATMENT ABYSS OF DECEPTIONS

CONSIDERATIO
NS FOR
MONITORING
Monitoring, interpreting, and analyzing data
from the Electronic Chart Display and

ECDIS
Information System (ECDIS) is a critical skill
for navigators to ensure safe and efficient
passage of vessels. ECDIS provides an
integrated platform for accessing and
visualizing key navigational data, but
effective use of the system requires a deep
understanding of its functionality,
limitations, and associated sensors. Below is
a detailed guide on how to monitor,
interpret, and analyze data from ECDIS.
LIMITAT
IONS DESCRIPTION IMPACT

A lag between real-time events and the

OF
ECDIS, being an electronic system, may experience a slight
information displayed on ECDIS could lead to
delay in processing and displaying data due to system lag,
SYSTEM LAG incorrect decision-making, especially in
which can happen during periods of heavy data input or
critical situations where split-second
when interfacing with multiple sensors.
decisions are necessary.

ECDIS
ECDIS relies heavily on the accuracy of the data it receives
Incorrect sensor data can lead to inaccurate
DATA ACCURACY from connected sensors, such as GPS, AIS, and radar. If
positioning, false alarms, or even missing
AND SENSOR these sensors provide inaccurate data (e.g., due to GPS
critical hazards in the navigational
DEPENDENCY signal interference or sensor malfunction), the information
environment.
displayed on ECDIS may not reflect the actual situation.

ECDIS requires human interaction for tasks like setting

routes, inputting waypoints, and configuring alarms. Human error in data entry can lead to route
HUMAN INPUT
Mistakes during these operations, such as entering incorrect deviations, missed waypoints, and
ERRORS
waypoints or failing to update charts, can cause the system navigational hazards being overlooked.
to display misleading information.

ECDIS presents a large amount of data, and incorrect

Misinterpreting the data displayed on ECDIS,
settings or misinterpretation of the information can lead to
MISINTERPRETATIO such as depth information or safety zones,
navigational errors. For example, layering options, chart
N OF INFORMATION can cause the vessel to enter hazardous
scale, and safety contours need to be carefully configured to
 CONNE
CTED
DESCRIPTION LIMITATION

Radar can be affected by sea clutter (echoes

Radar detects objects, other vessels, landmasses, and
RADAR (RADIO from waves), rain, fog, and land shadows
obstacles by sending out radio waves and interpreting the

SENSO
DETECTION AND (areas where objects block radar signals).
reflected signals. ECDIS can overlay radar data on electronic
RANGING) Additionally, small objects like buoys or
charts, providing a real-time picture of the surroundings.
smaller boats might not be detected.

AIS only provides data for vessels equipped

RS
AIS automatically transmits information about a vessel’s with AIS transponders. Small boats,
AIS (AUTOMATIC identity, position, course, and speed to other ships and shore recreational vessels, and fishing boats may
IDENTIFICATION stations. ECDIS receives this data, allowing the crew to see not always have AIS, making them invisible
SYSTEM) other vessels equipped with AIS, their movements, and key on ECDIS. Additionally, faulty AIS signals or
details. improper settings can transmit incorrect
information.

GPS signals can be disrupted by

GPS provides accurate position data (latitude, longitude) and interference, atmospheric conditions, or
GPS (GLOBAL feeds it into the ECDIS, allowing real-time positioning of the jamming, leading to inaccurate positioning.
POSITIONING vessel on the ENC (Electronic Navigational Chart). It also GPS drift (minor position errors over time)
SYSTEM) supports the calculation of course over ground (COG) and may cause the vessel’s position on ECDIS to
speed over ground (SOG). be incorrect, especially in areas with poor
satellite coverage.

Echo sounders have limitations in very deep

or shallow waters. In shallow areas, they
The echo sounder measures water depth beneath the vessel
may not provide enough early warning to
and provides this data to ECDIS. It’s particularly useful for
ECHO SOUNDER prevent grounding. They can also be
 PREVAILING
CIRCUMSTANCE
DESCRIPTION IMPACTS

Weather significantly affects navigation. Poor

visibility due to fog or heavy rain can make

S AND
Weather conditions can significantly impact maritime visual navigation difficult, while strong winds
WEATHER navigation, affecting visibility, sea state, and overall safety. and waves can alter the vessel's course or
CONDITIONS Mariners must be vigilant in monitoring weather forecasts speed, requiring constant adjustments.
and adapting their plans accordingly. Moreover, radar performance can be
compromised by sea clutter (echoes from

CONDITIONS
waves) or rain.

High traffic density, such as in busy ports,

shipping lanes, or congested straits,
Traffic density in maritime navigation refers to the number
increases the risk of collision. ECDIS,
and concentration of vessels in a particular area. High traffic
combined with AIS and radar, can help
TRAFFIC DENSITY density can increase the risk of collisions and other maritime
monitor nearby vessels and avoid dangerous
incidents, making it essential for mariners to exercise caution
situations. However, reliance on these tools
and follow established navigation rules.
must be balanced with manual lookout and
judgment.

Navigating close to land, reefs, shoals, or in

PROXIMITY TO Navigational hazards are any obstacles or dangers that can
narrow channels requires precise control over
LAND OR pose a threat to a vessel's safety. These hazards can include;
the vessel’s position and speed. In these
NAVIGATIONAL Shoals,Rocks and reefs, Wrecks, Breakwaters, Bridges and
situations, depth sounders, radar, and visual
HAZARDS other structures.
bearings become crucial in addition to ECDIS.

Echo sounders have limitations in very deep

SIGN
IFICA
NCE
Electronic Navigational Charts (ENCs)
are digital representations of marine charts
used in conjunction with Electronic Chart

OF
Display and Information Systems (ECDIS).
They provide a wealth of real-time
navigational data crucial for modern-day
navigation. ENCs display various layers of

ENC
information, such as depth contours,
navigational aids, traffic separation
schemes, and other charted features, in an
interactive format. Navigators can extract
critical data from ENCs, such as Course
COUR Course Over Ground (COG) is the actual path
over the earth's surface that a vessel is

SE
moving along. It represents the direction in
which the ship is progressing, factoring in
external influences such as wind, current,
and tides.

OVER
Significance in Navigation

GROU
Determining True Route Monitoring Collision Avoidance
Direction

ND
COG helps navigators
understand the actual
direction the vessel is moving By comparing the COG with When combined with data
relative to the ground. This is the intended course, from other vessels (e.g., AIS),
particularly important when navigators can assess knowing your own COG allows
whether the vessel is staying

(COG)
navigating in areas with for better prediction of
strong currents or winds, as on the planned route. If the potential collision courses. If
these external forces can COG deviates from the your COG intersects with that
cause the vessel to drift from planned course, adjustments of another vessel, action can
its intended heading (the in heading must be made to be taken to avoid a collision.
direction in which the bow is correct the vessel's path.
SPEED Speed Over Ground (SOG) is the vessel's
actual speed relative to the earth's surface,

OVER
typically provided by GPS. Unlike speed
through water, which only measures the
vessel's speed in relation to the water
around it, SOG includes the effects of

GROU
currents, wind, and tides.

Significance in Navigation

ND Real-Time Speed
Information Fuel Efficiency ETA Calculations

(SOG)
SOG gives the navigator a
precise indication of how fast
the vessel is moving over the
ground, allowing for accurate
By analyzing SOG in different
environmental conditions,
navigators can adjust speed
and heading to optimize fuel
consumption. For example,
running with a favorable
SOG is crucial for determining
how long it will take to reach
the next
destination.
waypoint
It
or
directly
influences ETA calculations,
monitoring of progress along current can increase SOG enabling the navigator to
a route. without increasing engine make adjustments to ensure
the vessel arrives on time.
 ETA is the predicted time that a vessel will
reach a specific waypoint or destination. It is

ESTIM
calculated based on the vessel's current SOG
and the distance remaining to the
destination.

ATED
Significance in Navigation

TIMEVoyage Planning Route Optimization Avoiding Congestion

OF
ETA is an essential parameter
for voyage
ensuring
planning
that a
and
vessel
By continuously monitoring
SOG and ETA, navigators can n congested or high-traffic

ARRIV
adheres to its schedule. An adjust the vessel's speed to areas, adjusting the vessel's
accurate ETA allows for better optimize the route. For speed to manage the ETA can
coordination with ports, example, if a vessel is ahead help avoid arriving during
pilots, and terminal of schedule, the navigator peak traffic periods, reducing
operations, which helps in may reduce speed to save fuel waiting times for berths or
without affecting the arrival pilotage services.
 DATA DERIVED
FROM ENCS
COURSE OVER
HOW IT IS DERIVED FROM ENCS

ECDIS continuously calculates and displays COG

based on GPS position updates and the vessel's
movement. By overlaying the COG on the ENC,
IMPORTANCE

COG is crucial for ensuring that the vessel follows the

planned route, especially in narrow or hazardous waters.
Deviation from the planned COG might indicate the
GROUND (COG) mariners can visually monitor if the ship is
influence of external factors, requiring adjustments to the
staying on the intended route or drifting due to
vessel’s course to maintain safe passage.
currents or wind.

SOG is essential for monitoring the vessel's progress and

ECDIS calculates SOG using GPS data, taking ensuring it is maintaining an appropriate speed for the
into account the vessel’s position changes over conditions. It is also used to calculate the ETA and adjust
SPEED OVER
time. This real-time information is displayed on voyage planning. SOG is especially important in areas
GROUND (SOG)
the ENC, allowing navigators to monitor the with strong currents, where the vessel’s speed through
ship’s progress and speed. the water might be significantly different from its speed
over the ground.

ECDIS uses SOG and the remaining distance ETA is crucial for voyage planning, coordination with
along the planned route on the ENC to calculate ports, fuel management, and ensuring compliance with
ESTIMATED TIME OF ETA in real-time. As conditions change (e.g., schedules. Monitoring ETA helps navigators make
ARRIVAL (ETA) speed increases or decreases), the ETA is adjustments to the vessel’s speed and route to ensure a
updated to provide an accurate estimate of timely arrival while considering weather, traffic, and
arrival time. other operational constraints.
 SIGNIFICANCE OF ENC-
DERIVED INFORMATION
SIGNIFICANCE DEFINITION SIGNIFICANCE DEFINITION

Real-time monitoring of COG,

IN NAVIGATION
ENCs provide a real-time display of a SOG, and ETA enables proactive
vessel's position and movement in decision-making. For example, if
relation to charted features like the vessel is behind schedule,
landmasses, shallow waters, and adjustments can be made to
A. ENHANCED
navigational aids. By tracking COG and D. TIMELY DECISION- increase speed or take a more
SITUATIONAL
SOG, mariners can ensure they remain MAKING efficient route. Similarly, if
AWARENESS
on course and at the right speed, weather conditions worsen, the
especially in challenging conditions like vessel may need to reduce
congested waters or regions with speed, and an updated ETA helps
variable depths. in communicating the delay to
port authorities or stakeholders.

ETA is vital for coordinating

Monitoring COG and SOG allows the
activities at ports, such as
navigator to make continuous
docking, cargo handling, and
adjustments to ensure the ship stays
pilotage services. An accurate
B. ACCURATE on its planned route. Any drift from the E. EFFICIENT
ETA allows ports to manage
VOYAGE course (due to wind, currents, or other COORDINATION WITH
traffic efficiently, minimizing
PLANNING AND factors) can be detected and corrected PORTS AND
delays and optimizing resource
ADJUSTMENT quickly. Similarly, knowing the vessel’s STAKEHOLDERS:
use. It also helps shipping
SOG helps in managing fuel
companies ensure adherence to
consumption, optimizing the voyage for
contracts and schedules.
efficiency and cost savings.

In areas with numerous navigational

hazards (like reefs, shoals, or narrow
THA