What is a nautical chart used for?

• A. To depict coastal outlines, depths, hazards, and navigation aids for safe navigation.
• B. To display weather forecasts
• C. To list crew names
• D. To record historical voyages

Answer: (A)

Nautical charts are navigational maps that show the features mariners need to move safely across the water. They depict land outlines, water depths (and depth contours), and hazards such as rocks, wrecks, and shoals, along with aids to navigation like lighthouses, buoys, and beacons. They also include channels, fairways, anchorage areas, and the chart’s scale and legend so you can plan routes, determine safe clearances, and plot positions accurately. Weather forecasts, crew lists, and historical voyage records aren’t the primary purpose of these charts—weather information belongs to weather charts or forecasts, crew rosters come from manifests, and historical voyages are recorded in logs or archives.