A navigation information system that displays ENCs and vessel position, accepted as a replacement for paper charts under SOLAS.
Quick facts
Regulation
SOLAS Chapter V
Regulation
IMO MSC.232(82)
In practice
On watch, the OOW monitors the ship's position displayed on the ECDIS against the planned route, with safety contours and depth areas highlighting hazards. Cross-track error alarms, anti-grounding alarms, and look-ahead functions automate hazard detection. However, ECDIS misuse has contributed to several groundings, often through operators suppressing alarms or failing to update ENCs. IHO S-57 cell updates must be applied weekly via the Admiralty Vector Chart Service or equivalent; an out-of-date ENC carries no more authority than a paper chart that has not been corrected. Proper ECDIS training to STCW standards is therefore a flag state requirement before any officer may use the system operationally.
Regulatory detail & full definition
The Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS) is a geographic information system that integrates electronic navigational charts (ENCs) in IHO S-57 or the newer S-101 format with the vessel's real-time position from GPS, enabling continuous chart plotting and automated safety monitoring. SOLAS Chapter V, Regulation 19 mandates ECDIS on most new vessels above certain gross tonnage thresholds as a replacement for paper charts, subject to type-approved backup arrangements. Performance standards are defined in IMO MSC.232(82), specifying display accuracy, route checking, and alarm requirements.
On watch, the OOW monitors the ship's position displayed on the ECDIS against the planned route, with safety contours and depth areas highlighting hazards. Cross-track error alarms, anti-grounding alarms, and look-ahead functions automate hazard detection. However, ECDIS misuse has contributed to several groundings, often through operators suppressing alarms or failing to update ENCs. IHO S-57 cell updates must be applied weekly via the Admiralty Vector Chart Service or equivalent; an out-of-date ENC carries no more authority than a paper chart that has not been corrected. Proper ECDIS training to STCW standards is therefore a flag state requirement before any officer may use the system operationally.