What is the primary purpose of a navigational chart?

The primary purpose of a navigational chart is to assist in the safe navigation of water. Navigational charts provide critical information about water depths, underwater hazards, the layout of shorelines, and the geographic features of the surrounding area. This information is essential for mariners to safely maneuver their vessels, avoid obstacles, and understand the conditions of the waterways they are navigating.

While navigational charts may include features that indicate the location of harbors and outline shipping routes, their overarching goal is to ensure that vessels can travel safely through various bodies of water. This includes understanding tidal influences, currents, and other navigational aids that are crucial for mariners. The inclusion of weather forecasts in the context of navigational charts, while useful, is not their primary purpose. Thus, the main role of a navigational chart remains centered on facilitating safe navigation.