FAQ
What charts does Steveston Marine carry for BC waters?
Steveston Marine carries over 270 products in this collection, including official Canadian Hydrographic Service nautical charts covering BC coastal waters, plus Raymarine electronic chart products and chartplotter accessories for boaters who prefer digital navigation tools over traditional paper charts and atlases. Together these give boaters both traditional and modern navigation options in one place.
Are paper charts still necessary if I have a chartplotter?
Yes, many experienced boaters continue to keep paper charts onboard as a reliable backup in case of unexpected electronic failure while underway. Transport Canada also generally recommends carrying appropriate paper charts for your specific cruising area regardless of how advanced your onboard electronics happen to be. This backup approach is considered standard practice among experienced offshore boaters.
How do I know which chart number covers my route?
Each individual chart is clearly labeled with a specific reference number tied to a particular region, such as Chart 3463 covering the Strait of Georgia. It's best to cross-reference your planned route directly with the Canadian Hydrographic Service's official chart index to confirm the correct one. Taking a few extra minutes here helps avoid navigation errors later on the water.
Are these charts updated regularly?
Canadian Hydrographic Service charts are periodically updated over time to reflect ongoing navigational changes, hazard updates, and other relevant chart corrections. Always check the printed date or specific edition number shown directly on each chart to confirm you're working from genuinely current and accurate navigational information. Using an outdated chart can mean missing important recent navigational hazards.
Can I buy Raymarine electronic charts here too?
Yes, this same collection includes Raymarine electronic chart products listed right alongside the traditional paper CHS charts, giving you the flexibility to choose digital chartplotter-compatible data or more traditional printed navigation charts depending on what works best for your boat and navigation style. Many boaters keep both formats onboard for added redundancy and peace of mind.
