The IHO Nautical Information Provision Work Group Endorses New Guide for Nautical Data 2.1

During a meeting on 4 December 2024, the International Hydrographic Organization Nautical Information Provision Work Group (IHO NIPWG) held a vote on the new Guide for Nautical Data 2.1. The guide was unanimously endorsed.

The guide, developed with input from members of the International Harbour Masters Association (IHMA) worldwide, aims to assist hydrographic offices and port authorities in fulfilling their responsibilities as outlined in the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Chapter V, Regulation 9: Hydrographic Services.

SOLAS establishes minimum safety standards for ships, including requirements for the collection, compilation, maintenance, and dissemination of information essential for safe navigation. Chapter V, Regulation 9 specifically addresses hydrographic surveys and the provision of nautical charts, sailing directions, lists of lights, and tide tables. It emphasizes the need for coordination among hydrographic offices and port authorities to ensure the timely and accurate production of uniform nautical publications.

IHMA President Paul O’ Regan emphasized the importance of SOLAS in protecting seafarers and highlighted the Guide as a collaborative effort between IHMA and IHO to enhance data exchange between ports and hydrographic offices, ultimately improving the quality of nautical charts and publications.

IHO Director Dr. John Nyberg expressed satisfaction with the Guide’s release, viewing it as a successful outcome of the IHO-IHMA partnership and a valuable tool for countries worldwide to meet their SOLAS obligations.

Captain Ben van Scherpenzeel, Chairman of the International Taskforce Port Call Optimization (ITPCO) and Project Officer Nautical Information at IHMA, praised the collaboration among experts from hydrographic offices, shipping lines, and ports that led to the development of the Guide, marking a significant milestone in enhancing the quality and accessibility of nautical data.

Overall, the endorsement of the Guide for Nautical Data 2.1 by the IHO NIPWG signifies a commitment to advancing safe navigation practices and ensuring the well-being of seafarers worldwide.