Which chart scale is used for Coastal charts?

• A. Coastal (1:50,000-150,000)
• B. General (1:150,000-600,000)
• C. Sailing (1:600,000 and larger)
• D. Small Craft (1:40,000 and larger)

Answer: (A)

Coastal charts use a middle-range scale that balances coverage with detail for near-shore navigation. This range, about 1:50,000 to 1:150,000, lets you see enough coastline features, channels, shoals, and hazards while still showing a workable stretch of coast. Larger-scale charts (like 1:40,000) focus on very small areas with more detail for harbor work, while smaller-scale charts (general and sailing) cover larger areas with less detail, which isn’t ideal for navigating along the coast. So the coastal choice at roughly 1:50,000 to 1:150,000 is the best fit for coastal navigation.