T&T: Navionics iPhone application

[Bruce Gelhorn]

Thanks to a tip that Jeffrey Siegel posted about a month ago, I 
purchased the Navionics application for my iPhone.

For the sum of $9.99, I got the chart plotter as well as a full set of 
vector charts covering the entire inside passage from Puget Sound to 
Glacier Bay.  Tides and currents are included.

I can now use my iPhone as a chart plotter when in the dinghy, and it 
will serve as a backup chartplotter whenever Nobeltec crashes (frequently).

I have yet to figure out if Navionics is using a consistent datum 
throughout the entire series of charts.  As well, the vector charts 
don't provide the level of detail present in the CHS charts.  However, 
when used in conjunction with printed charts and alternate means to 
verify position, this software serves as a convenient and very 
affordable navigation tool.

I really like the vector charts for their ability to provide readable 
captions regardless of zoom levels -- very useful on the iPhone's small 
display.

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Bruce Gelhorn
M/V Single Malt
Mainship 34-I
Vancouver, BC