ECDIS Procedures Guide (2025-2026)

Volumes 1-3 are presented in a slipcase for onboard use, while Volumes 4-6 are available online.

Volume 1 - ECDIS Procedures Guide delivers the latest onboard best practices for ensuring compliance with PSC inspections, SMS and ISM requirements, and documentation standards. It addresses current software and hardware issues, sensor vulnerabilities and manufacturer-specific configurations. This volume now includes a comprehensive set of emergency flow diagrams, quick-access checklists and a newly added comparative table of leading manufacturer capabilities, aiding ship operators in supplier selection and fleet standardisation.

Volume 2 - ENC Charting Guide, Issues and Solutions provides a practical analysis of the recurring charting issues encountered at sea. It explores challenges such as CATZOC reliability, ENC scale mismatches, global vertical datum discrepancies and the use of emerging data sources such as ePNMs. Enhanced with visual tutorials, regional risk maps and relevant case studies, this volume helps operators understand and mitigate real-world risks while ensuring charting compliance across all navigation areas.

Volume 3 - ECDIS Passage Planning and Monitoring Guide reflects the rapid evolution in route planning technology, with coverage of reference routes, green shipping corridors and maritime security transit lanes. It also addresses the growing importance of COLREGs-integrated planning tools and the shift toward automatic passage planning seen in newer software generations. Practical guidance is provided for operations in DR/EP mode due to rising GNSS interference, including recommended procedures for inclusion in the ship?s SMS.

Volume 4 - Manufacturer's Familiarisation Guide ? Type Specific has been redesigned to streamline onboard training. Previously growing in complexity due to expanding ECDIS functionality, the new familiarisation cards are now more manageable, focused on core operations and aligned with ISM requirements. Based on input from ship managers, operators and seafarers, key features such as CCRP configuration, alarm management, AIO usage, sensor setup and logs/playback have been retained or added to reflect the most critical functions needed at sea and during inspection.

Volume 5 - Manufacturer?s Quick Reference Guide ? Type Specific features revised and expanded step-by-step reference cards tailored to the real-time needs of ECDIS operators. Reordered for better usability at sea, these guides now include procedures for chart permits, manual position updates, new route monitoring layouts, MOB/SAR functions and playback/exporting tools. Developed through workshops and operator feedback, these quick reference tools are designed to close common knowledge gaps and reduce inspection failures.

Volume 6 - ECDIS Continual Professional Development (CPD) Guide has been significantly expanded to support both internal ISM training and Master/OOW certificate preparation. It includes updated exam-style questions, self-tests and knowledge checks across topics such as chart symbology and safe navigation principles. A refreshed pre-PSC section provides structured activities for bridge teams, while a dedicated chapter for ECDIS experts offers advanced troubleshooting tests and fleetwide training resources for competency assurance.

Together these six volumes form the most complete and practical ECDIS resource available, equipping bridge teams with the tools and knowledge to navigate safely.

INTRODUCTION

Since 1995, the International Maritime Organization (IMO), as the global maritime regulatory body has been providing the minimum performance standards for Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems (ECDIS), including provisions for navigational systems and equipment carried on board ships. Initially, ECDIS was considered as a means of meeting paper chart carriage requirements, and later in 2011, became a mandatory carriage requirement for SOLAS ships with a phased-in implementation, recognising the benefits of ECDIS for navigation.

In addition, ECDIS training and competency requirements for seafarers were introduced into the Seafarers' Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Code, which entered into force on 1st January 2012. A model course on the operational use of ECDIS used by training institutions to develop their approved training was also developed. These developments in ECDIS technology, training and procedures have delivered towards IMO's mission in the field of safety of navigation, set at a global scale. IMO continues to take the lead in bridging the gap between technology and safety and security concerns, in order to achieve the right balance. In this context, the role of the human element is paramount to support and monitor technology and to ensure that ECDIS continues to serve its purpose, ie enhance the safety of navigation.

Emphasising the inherent and unique role of the IMO in the development of ECDIS international provisions, it is encouraging to see that the industry is taking the lead to proactively provide guidance to ECDIS users. These initiatives complement the efforts made by the IMO to ensure the effective implementation of its provisions, including ECDIS - Guidance for Good Practice (MSC.1/Circ.1503/Rev.2), the latest version of which was issued in 2022.

Foreword supplied by the International Maritime Organization

Foreword to Volume 2

The International Hydrographic Organization's (IHO) and The International Maritime Organization's (IMO) technical standardisation builds the foundation for the uniformity of digital navigation devices on ships on international voyages under any flag. ECDIS - as the all integrating device of digital navigation information - was based on this concept approach from the start in 1986 when the IMO/IHO Joint Harmonization Group was laying the regulatory foundations for ECDIS - long before the required hardware and software was available.

Since then, the applicable standards of both intergovernmental organisations have undergone several iterations to reflect technical progress and changed users demands.

According to IMO's overarching paradigm for navigation equipment, IMO Resolution Performance Standards for ECDIS defines minimum requirements on functionality and performance. However, the added value of the modern ECDIS comes more and more from additional functionality within the chart. For example, seafarers require real water level application based on tides and currents predictions, dense bathymetry and electronic sailing directions embedded in a way that content can be associated automatically to the navigation plan. The S-100 framework for the standardisation of all the marine information related data services address this functionality. IHO S-52 version 4.0 ruling the visual presentation of chart content has now safely been adopted by all vessels, and S-101 ENCs will eventually replace S-57 ENCs. This allows the IHO to lead in enhancing the way ships navigate under a digital shield and to make shipping safer and more efficient.

Although the standards have been revised, the art of navigation has evolved. There is now evidence that ECDIS has reduced the number of grounding incidents, compared to that of paper ships, but there are always improvements to be made. Dense traffic in congested waters, ever growing ship size and draught and on time delivery at the port of call cannot be managed without all embracing digital navigation support. The IHO continues to lead in developing value, adding interoperable layers of the ENC to enhance ECDIS with the prospect of having artificial intelligence (AI) helping the mariner one day. In the interim, IHO members make a concerted effort to provide additional content as regular data services in a safe, consistent and reliable manner.

I wish this publication every success to educate the reader about the general concepts of ECDIS and the details need to be known for proper use.

Mathias Jonas
Secretary-General
International Hydrographic Organization

Foreword to Volume 3

In 2025, a significant milestone occurred in the evolution of ECDIS as IHO Member States adopted operational standards within the S-100 framework. To put this in perspective, the current standard of S-57 ENC Charts was first adopted in 1995, 30 years ago.

Pre-1995, a 'chart' was a physical item which was used in conjunction with other charts to visually construct a plan. Positions, confirmed by either visual, celestial or radar means (or a combination of the three), were plotted directly onto the chart which identified where the ship was and where it needed to go.

In 2025, on many ships, charts are now electronic (ECDIS). These digital systems can create passage plans and decide where it is safe to navigate. ECDIS can also inform the user of the most optimum speed and route to take for fuel efficiency for that voyage. ECDIS can cross check its positional reliability with other sources, usually by comparing GNSS positional data. Typically, the Master and/or OOWs would be alerted to any discrepancies in positional data or other sensor feedbacks.

In some systems, ECDIS is also linked to the autopilot and has a 'track control function', which, depending on the manufacturer, may allow the ECDIS to look ahead for dangers and automatically alter the ship's course to avoid them. Manoeuvres carried out by the ECDIS must be in accordance with the COLREGs.

For those who say the maritime industry is slow to evolve, this is a dramatic 30-year transformation.

There are many still at sea, who like me, conducted their ECDIS training on ARCS charts pre-S-57 adoption. Unfortunately, the mandated IMO 1.27 Generic training syllabus is unable to reflect the constant changes to ECDIS software and its capabilities, and it does not support those trained historically in ECDIS. There is no doubt that ECDIS has reduced navigation incidents at sea, although to maintain this safety curve there now requires an even greater understanding of how ECDIS works.

Even the best, most advanced, modern ECDIS is only as good as the knowledge of the ECDIS operator who configures it.

Debbie Hull
Managing Director
ECDIS Ltd

CONTENTS LISTING

The Evolution of ECDIS
Foreword to Volume
About ECDIS Ltd
Updates to ECDIS Procedures Guide Volumes 1-6 2025-2026
Definitions
Updates to the 2025-2026 ECDIS Procedures Guide Volume 1
1 Latest Standards of Equipment and Software Updates
1.1 Latest Software Required on Board
1.2 Latest Standards for ECDIS Equipment
1.3 GNSS Options and Known Jamming Areas
1.4 Navigating Through GNSS Disruption/Jamming/Spoofing
1.5 Transition to S-Mode
2 ECDIS Documentation and Compliance
2.1 List of Latest Circulars and Marine General Orders
2.2 ISM ECDIS Audit Template 2026 and Risk Assessment Calculations
2.3 Paper to Digital Transition
2.4 Assessing ECDIS Software Suitability
2.5 Choosing the Right ECDIS
2.6 List of Integrated Equipment
2.7 Warranty, Maintenance and Performance Test Procedures
2.8 Manufacturer's User Guide Requirements
2.9 STCW Mandated Training Certificates
2.10 IMO 1.27 Generic Training
2.11 Type Specific and Familiarisation Training
2.12 Latest ECDIS Functions Checklist for Legacy Training
3 Correct Hardware Setup and Defect Problem Solving
3.1 Minimum Bridge Setup Requirements
3.2 Service Mode/Engineer Access Codes
3.3 Installation Settings and Passwords
3.4 Minimum Sensor Requirements
3.5 COM (Sensor) Setup
3.6 BNWAS and ECDIS
3.7 VDES (new AIS) and ECDIS
3.8 Bridge Alert Management (BAM) and Central Alert Management (CAM)
3.9 Planning Stations and Legal Implications of Use
3.10 Potential Issues with Integrated Bridge System Keyboards
3.11 Self-Testing of ECDIS Systems
3.12 Backup Requirements and Power Failure
3.13 Reported Hardware Defects and Solutions
3.14 Troubleshooting Guide
4 Correct Software Setup and Defect Problem Solving
4.1 Setting Up System Units
4.2 Consistent Common Reference Point (CCRP)
4.3 Choosing Ship Outlines
4.4 User Alarm Choices
4.5 IMO Recommended Configuration of Alarms and Indicators
4.6 System Configuration and Maintenance
4.7 Impact of Incorrect System/Local Time Setup
4.8 Impact of Incorrect Time Source with Integrated Tidal Prediction Software
4.9 System Sensor and Local Sensor
4.10 Known Manufacturer Software Limitations and Solutions
4.11 Scan Route Failings
4.12 SMS Compliant Software Updates
4.13 Setting to Work After a Software Update
4.14 Reported Software Defects and Solutions
5 PSC/Inspection Administration and Records
5.1 IMO-required ECDIS Data Recording
5.2 Backup Procedure
5.3 Records and Documentation
5.4 ECDIS Screen Capture
5.5 Shore Support and Remote Navigation Audit Option
6 Equipment and Sensor Vulnerabilities and Solutions
6.1 Practical Cyber Security Procedures
6.2 Operating System/Software Update Concerns
6.3 Monitoring GNSS for Jamming/Spoofing
6.4 NAVTEX Vulnerabilities and the New NAVDAT Solution
6.5 SATCOM Vulnerabilities to Hacking
6.6 Transferring Non-secure Data to ECDIS and Auxiliary Equipment
6.7 Anti-virus Software
6.8 Types of Cyber Attack
6.9 Detection of a Cyber Attack
6.10 Response to a Cyber Attack
6.11 Recovery after a Cyber Attack
7 Observations/Non-conformities and Incidents at Sea
7.1 Top 30 Inspection Considerations in 2025-2026
7.2 ECDIS Observations
7.3 Training Shortfalls Highlighted by Inspections
7.4 ECDIS Non-conformities and Detentions - PSC
7.5 Responsibility for Safe Navigation
7.6 Dangers of Over-Reliance
Annexes
Annex A Checking the IHO S-52 Presentation Library Edition Number
Annex B ECDIS Alarms and Alerts
Annex C Pre-port Arrival - Top 10 PSC ECDIS Preparation Activities for 2025
Annex D Bridge ECDIS Anomalies Log

Volume 2: ENC Charting Guide, Issues and Solutions
1. New Charting Options
1.1 Licences and Permits
1.2 Global Expansion of Pay As You Sail (PAYS)
1.3 Polar Navigation
1.4 Scale 6 Berthing Charts
1.5 High Density (HD) ENCs
2. ENC Issues and Support
2.1 Overview of Current ENC Coverage and Notable Gaps
2.2 ENC Chart Symbology
2.3 ENC Scales, Known Issues and Support
2.4 Chart Disparity Between National ENCs on Passage
3. The Transition to S-100
3.1 Introduction to S-100
3.2 3D Charts
3.3 S-101 ENC Product Specification to Replace S-57
3.4 S-102 Bathymetric Surface
3.5 S-104 Water Level Information for Surface Navigation
3.6 S-111 Surface Currents
3.7 S-121 S-129
3.8 S-201 S-240
3.9 S-401 S-421
3.10 ?Dual Fuel? Systems
4. Known Charting Issues, Support and Solutions
4.1 Datum Warnings
4.2 Vertical Clearance and ECDIS
4.3 Raster Chart Display System (RCDS) Mode
4.4 Display Accuracy
4.5 SCAMIN/SCAMAX
4.6 Surveys and Chart Data
4.7 CATZOC - Understanding the Underlying Data and Using it Safely
5. Chart Update Options, Issues and Solutions
5.1 Admiralty Information Overlay (AIO)
5.2 Electronic Preliminary Notices to Mariners (EPNMs)
5.3 Automatically Plotted T&P Status by Country
5.4 Updating Charts
5.5 Chart Spot-Checks
Annexes
Annex A: ENC Chart Symbology from Chart 1
Annex B: Chart Spot-check Log
Annex C: Manual Corrections Log
Annex D: Chart Update Log

Volume 3: Route Creation, Checking and Safe Monitoring
1. Appraisal
1.1 Digital Nautical Publications
1.2 Tidal Data
1.3 UKC
1.4 Spot Sounding Depths
1.5 Safety Contours
1.6 Safety Depth Concerns
1.7 Safety Contour Concerns
1.8 Multiple Depth Shades
1.9 Overscale vs Underscale
1.10 Understanding CATZOCs
1.11 Displaying Chart Notes
1.12 Ports Functions
1.13 NAVTEX
2. Planning
2.1 Planning - General Considerations
2.2 Planning - Open Ocean
2.3 Planning - Coastal
2.4 Planning - Confined Waters
2.5 Planning - Blind Pilotage
3. Execution
4. Monitoring
4.1 Conning and Docking
4.2 ECDIS and Track Control Systems (TCS)
4.3 Verifying the Position in ECDIS
4.4 Use of Radar Information Overlay (RIO)
4.5 Navigating in DR/EP Mode
4.6 Variation and Deviation
5. Monitoring Performance of Sensors and Safety Features
5.1 ECDIS Safety Functions
5.2 Anchor Watch Functions
5.3 Guard Zones
5.4 AIS Filtering
5.5 Position of Intended Movement (PIM)
5.6 Watch Takeover Software
5.7 Man Overboard (MOB) and SAR
6. Automatic Integration of COLREGs into ECDIS
7. ECDIS Safety Checklists
7.1 OOW Handover Checklist
7.2 Master?s Night Orders
7.3 Pre-Sailing Checklist
7.4 ECDIS Configuration Card
7.5 GNSS Failure
7.6 Log Failure
7.7 Gyro Failure
7.8 Echosounder Failure
7.9 Radar Failure
7.10 AIS Failure
7.11 ECDIS Failure
7.12 Bridge Blackout
7.13 Bridge Evacuation
7.14 MOB/SAR ECDIS Check-Off Card
7.15 Cyber Security Checklist
7.16 Pre-departure/Voyage Briefing Card
Annexes
Annex A: NAVTEX Log
Annex B: Position Fix Log
Annex C: Master Inspection Log

Volume 4: Manufacturer?s Familiarisation Guides
Type-specific familiarisation training for major ECDIS systems
Each manufacturer includes:
- Familiarisation Checklist
- Key ECDIS Menu Functions
ECDIS Models Covered:
Anschütz, ChartWorld, Danelec, Furuno (multiple), Hensoldt (Kelvin Hughes), JRC (multiple), Kongsberg, OSI, PC Maritime, Seall, SIMRAD, Sperry, TELKO, Tokyo Keiki, Totem, Wärtsilä (Chartpilot & NACOS), Transas Navi-Sailor

Volume 5: Manufacturer?s Quick Reference Guides
Quick reference by system covering:
1. Familiarisation
2. ECDIS Data
3. Chart Management
4. Navigation Tools
5. Route Planning
6. Route Monitoring
7. System Settings
8. Voyage and Data Log Recording
ECDIS Models Covered:
ChartWorld, Furuno, JRC, Hensoldt, OSI, Seall, Sperry, Tokyo Keiki, Wärtsilä NACOS, Transas Navi-Sailor

Volume 6: Continual Professional Development (CPD) Guide
1. Record of ECDIS Training and Experience
1.1 Practical Experience
1.2 Generic Training
1.3 Type-Specific Training
1.4 Advanced Training
1.5 Computer-Based Training (CBT)
2. Onboard Familiarisation Training
2.1 SMS Checklist
2.2 Navigator-Led Team Training
3. CPD Scenarios to Address Training Gaps
Scenarios include:
- ENC Symbology
- Spot-Checks
- PSC Inspections
- Sensor Setup
- DR Navigation
- Fixing
- AIO
- CATZOC
- BAM
- Cyber Security Awareness
4. Tests
- Multiple Choice & Consolidation
5. Log of Onboard Competency
- Menu Functions
- Sensors
- System Configuration
- Chart Management
- Route Planning
- Monitoring
- Alarms, Fixing, and Procedures
Annexes
Annex A: STCW Exam - OOW
Annex B: STCW Exam - Mates/Masters
Annex C: CPD Log

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Witherbys titles are developed using scripts developed by technical experts that are peer reviewed within work groups. Typically, they seek to improve understanding of the regulations, recommendations and guidelines issued by Industry.

Witherbys staff have significant expertise in the fields of navigation and hazardous cargoes as well as in the presentation of complex subjects in a graphic and easy to understand manner.

ECDIS Ltd

ECDIS Ltd provide ECDIS training for over 200 international shipping companies and are the authors of multiple ECDIS publications including The ECDIS Manual, as well as the IMO 1.27 ECDIS model course.