Symbols & Abbreviations Used on Admiralty Paper Charts

Symbols and Abbreviations Used on Admiralty Paper Charts — known officially as Chart 5011 — is the definitive reference guide to the symbols, abbreviations and terms found on Admiralty, Australian Hydrographic Office and other internationally recognised paper nautical charts. Published by the UK Hydrographic Office and aligned with IHO standards, it is an essential companion for anyone who regularly works with paper charts — from recreational sailors and powerboaters who want to navigate with confidence, to maritime students studying for professional qualifications in the marine sector.

Organised into clearly referenced sections covering natural coastal features, man-made structures, depths and contours, tides and currents, buoys, beacons, lights, fog signals, radar systems and small craft facilities, Chart 5011 makes it straightforward to identify and understand any symbol or abbreviation encountered on a nautical chart without having to search through multiple references. A compact, practical guide that belongs in every chart table, nav station and maritime classroom.

Features

Official IHO Reference - The internationally recognised standard reference for chart symbols and abbreviations, published by the UK Hydrographic Office.

Covers Admiralty & Australian Hydrographic Office Charts - Applicable to both Admiralty and Australian Hydrographic Office paper nautical charts, as well as other internationally issued charts using standard IHO symbology.

Comprehensive Symbol Coverage - Covers all chart symbols and abbreviations across natural features, depths, tides, buoys, beacons, lights, fog signals, radar, electronic systems and small craft facilities.

Essential for Students - A required reference for maritime students studying for professional qualifications and careers in the marine sector.

Practical On-Board Reference - Compact format makes it an ideal quick-reference guide for the nav station or chart table during coastal and offshore passages.