PC chart plotting softwair??

[JimGeddes]

I'm looking for some chart plotting software for my laptop. is there anything free out there?

What different options do i have, i have a usb gps antenna ??


Thanks again

 

[Gary_H]

I've used SeaClear II and it works fine. I've played with OpenCPN but haven't navigated with it. I use a puck type usb reciever that I got off Craiges list for $20.00 You can download free charts from NOA. I also have a regular SITEX GPS tha I use.

 

[txjim]

Seaclear at http://www.sping.com/seaclear/ - Nice free package. Free charts from NOAA at http://www.nauticalcharts.noaa.gov/mcd/Raster/index.htm.

 

[Sailm8]

http://bigdumboat.com/cpnindex.html

Is this what you need?

 

[Rick D]

I have SeaClear ll and OpenCPN. Both are great. I use a GPS bud with a USB connection that I purchased on E-Bay. You will have to download your choice of charts from NOAA.

 

[Paul F]

This is a great link on how to use Sea Clear

http://www.boatmaine.us/seaclear-overview.aspx

 

[JimGeddes]

Yea i thought it would come down to sea clear.. i just wasn't sure about the charts, but i didn't really look into it very much.. I saved time by just posting on here. Everyone here is great.. Thanks again !!

 

[ADADAD]

Does Sea Clear work on Windows Vista?

 

[Rick D]

Yes, as well as anything works with Vista

 

[NotCook]

I'd like to hear others' opinions on Jeppesen's Nobeltec VNS versus Sea Clear. Obviously Noteltec is a lot more expensive, compared to free. IS Sea Clear industrial strength? Can you rely on it for offshore cruising and in the Caribbean (to the extent you can ANY charts)? I have Nobeltec VNS, but will have to invest in more electronic charts for it before we head out. If SeaClear is equivalent, I'd have a hard time justifying further Nobeltec investment...

Sooner or later, I will have to find out for myself, if Sea Clear is worth looking into.

 

[Steve Dion]

Here is an additional option to cloud up the decision.

http://rosepointnav.com/default.htm

 

[sinnettc]

Another vote for OpenCPN

I really like OpenCPN. It reads the free NOAA Raster & Vector charts, has tides & currents, works with GPS and AIS, and import/exports routes/waypoints. Pretty simple to set up and use.

The *only* problem I've had with it is that the import/export buttons don't show up on my little 10" netbook for some reason. I've reported the issue and hopefully they'll have that fixed or a work-around before I go cruising in the San Juans next summer.

http://sourceforge.net/projects/opencpn/