Sailing Directions

Sailing Directions, in the maritime context, refer to a series of instructions compiled to assist navigators in reaching their destination safely and efficiently. These are published by the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) under the United States Department of Defense. They are designed to provide the mariner with a description of prominent coastal features, port facilities, navigational aids, currents, tides, water depths, and other essential information that would assist in planning a voyage. Sailing Directions are typically arranged geographically and are often used in conjunction with nautical charts. They are an invaluable tool for mariners, providing detailed information about the environments they might encounter, including potential hazards and obstacles. They also include information about the regulations and procedures that apply in different maritime areas, helping mariners to comply with international and local maritime laws. Sailing Directions are updated regularly to ensure they reflect the most current information available.