What are Imray Charts?Imray charts are one of the world's principal publishers of privately created nautical charts. With award-winning cartography featuring a distinctive colour scheme, coloured light sectors and fine overprinted latitude and longitude grids, they set the standard for the leisure sector to make plotting easier. Imray chart coverage is divided into several series which are shown on the chart index. Imray charts receive continual attention and amendment which are based on up-to-date official surveys.
History of Imray ChartsIn 1904, Imray Laurie Norie & Wilson Ltd was formed when three private chart publishing firms came together. Imray was based in London until 1939 where cartographers produced charts from copper plate engravings which were supplied to mariners across the world. Imray charts are now based in St Ives in Cambridgeshire and they are digitally produced for printed and electronic editions.
Format of Imray Charts
Supported by corrections which may be downloaded until a new version is available, charts are always correct to the date of printing. However, the old edition cannot be corrected once the new version has been published. Most Imray charts are published on Pretex, a partially synthetic paper, it may be drawn on in both soft pencil and ballpoint pen. Normally published to an approximately A4 fold format, Imray charts are supplied in robust PVC wallets. Every chart includes details of the datum and projection on which it was based, this allows it to be used safely with GPS navigation systems.
Difference between Imray Charts and Admiralty Charts
Admiralty charts are in great detail and are not waterproofed. This makes it easier to do detailed non-electronic navigation. On the other hand, Imray charts are mostly intended for leisure use as they are a little less detailed and are made out of waterproof paper.
Take a look at our range of Admiralty charts for further nautical sea charts. If you want to keep up to date with future Sea Chest blogs, the latest news and our new products, give us a like on Facebook, or follow us through Twitter: @seachestcharts.
