Tom Cunliffe introduces new interactive navigation app

Renowned sailor and author, Tom Cunliffe has introduced a new interactive app using raster charts derived from UKHO data.

Following the negative response to the UKHO’s now postponed decision to discontinue paper charts and their important raster derivatives, Cunliffe and his colleague, retired eye surgeon, ocean sailor and a software developer Bill Aylward, have produced AngelNav, an iPad-based chart plotter using UKHO data for raster charts.

Looking exactly like paper charts, AngelNav’s raster charts are complete with the important notes and warnings that have disappeared from their vector equivalents. Cunliffe says navigating with AngelNav is designed to be like having a plotter that uses the charts in a boat’s navigation station, with two primary differences: they are all present and always up to date.

In addition to the usual waypoints and routes, AngelNav allows a user the power to plot traditional chartwork easily on the screen. Three-point fixes from compass bearings can be plotted on-screen, just like a pencil on a paper chart, as can vector diagrams for a course to steer or an estimated position.

“Not only does this enable sailors to keep in touch with traditional methods of navigation, it also means that if GPS takes a break and paper backup falls short, AngelNav’s charts still work for electronic navigation based on reliable analogue inputs,” comments Cunliffe.

“You can also create accurate, georeferenced satellite charts for anywhere in the world within the app – extremely useful in remote areas where conventional charting is patchy. With AngelNav, the skipper is genuinely in charge of his own destiny.”

Currently, AngelNav offers UK waters and Ireland with more areas coming on-line.

AngelNav is a free app from the Apple App store for iPhones and iPads running iOS 15.0 and above. UK and Ireland charts are divided into affordable sections that can be bought in-app at £24.99.

In November 2020, Cunliffe launched an online sailing club. Membership to The Sea Chest is said to give sailors the opportunity to join a world-wide seagoing community that can access many aspects of Cunliffe’s work not available elsewhere, including technical tips and how to advice.