Question 1

AIS and GPS in Windows

Accepted Answer

Pairing GPS and AIS with your Windows PC

Since Windows computers do not have a built-in GPS antenna, the Waterkaarten app on Windows requires a separate GPS antenna to show your position on the map. We recommend using a GPS antenna that can (also) be connected to the PC via a USB cable.

The power for this GPS antenna is also supplied via the USB cable and you can position the antenna in the best spot. You can find a good GPS antenna at our partner Vaarwinkel.

Linking your own AIS device

More and more users of Waterkaarten are linking their own AIS device to the app. Don't have an AIS device yet? For this, our partner Smartmarine has great solutions.

Take for example, the Quark-Elec A026: an AIS receiver that, in addition to being wireless, can also be connected to your PC via USB. This A026 model also has a built-in GPS antenna, meaning you have GPS and AIS in one. This A026 also receives power via a USB cable.

An additional VHF antenna is required for AIS reception. You can find this A026 as a special Waterkaarten deal here.

Be seen with an AIS transponder

If you also want to be visible to the marine traffic around you, you'll need an AIS transponder: it broadcasts your location to the surrounding ships. Smartmarine is happy to help you with that. For an AIS transponder, you must have a basic marine certificate and you must register your ship and the transponder with the Rijksdienst Digitale Infrastructuur (RDI).

For all peripherals that work via USB, you must first install the manufacturer's driver. This driver is supplied with the device, or it can be found on the manufacturer's website.

You can read more here about AIS in our app.

Question 2

AIS Checklist

Accepted Answer

It usually goes well, but there may be conditions that cause the connection between our app and your AIS-device not to work, or causes problems. Below is a list of actions to take to make/restore a good connection.

Checklist/order
-Make sure your smartphone/tablet is updated to the latest operating system (Android/iOS)
-Make sure you have the latest version of the Waterkaarten-app on your smartphone/tablet.
-Close the app on your smartphone/tablet
-Turn off WIFI, mobile data, GPS and Bluetooth on your smartphone/tablet
-Switch off your smartphone/tablet
-Switch off your AIS device/setup
-Start up your AIS setup. Are you working with a multiplexer? Then boot up your AIS device first, then your multiplexer. Make sure the AIS device you are connecting to is in Ad-Hoc or Access Point mode, i.e. not linked to an internet hotspot or router
-Reboot your smartphone/tablet
-Turn on the Wi-Fi on your smartphone/tablet and connect to the network of your AIS device.
-Open only the Waterkaarten-app, no other apps
-Create a connection to your AIS device in the app by entering the correct IP address and port
-Connect to your AIS device with only one smartphone or tablet.
-Activate AIS on the map by tapping the AIS button at the top right of the map.
-Give the app 10 minutes to pull in all data (such as ship name, type etc) from the shipping around you.
-Test/judge the operation while sailing.

The Waterkaarten app uses the AIS and GPS data from your AIS device.
If you are stationary at a marina, your AIS device may stop broadcasting GPS updates after a while because your boat is not moving. As a result, the app does not see your location.

Tested
The AIS -pairing functionality in our app is compatible with virtually all AIS receivers and transceivers with a wireless (WIFI) network. We ourselves tested mainly with Quark-Elec and Em-trak AIS devices.

Quark-Elec WIFI networks:
Wireless network password: 88888888
IP address: 192.168.1.100
Port: 2000

Em-trak WIFI networks:
Wireless network password: emtrakais
IP address: 192.168.2.1
Port: 5000

Note: Garmin and Raymarine AIS devices do not transmit AIS over WIFI, and a Garmin and/or Raymarine device requires a plotter to use GPS. If you want to see AIS from your Garmin or Raymarine AIS device in our app, you will need a multiplexer to connect to our app.

Question 3

AIS checklist

Accepted Answer

Although it usually works well, there may be conditions that cause the AIS link not to work, or to cause issues. Below is a list of actions to take to make/restore a good connection.

Checklist

Make sure your smartphone/tablet is updated to the latest operating system (iOS/Android)
Make sure you have the latest version of the Waterkaarten app on your smartphone/tablet
Close the app on your smartphone/tablet
Turn off wifi, mobile data, GPS and Bluetooth on your smartphone/tablet
Switch off your smartphone/tablet
Switch off your AIS device/setup
Start up your AIS setup. Are you working with a multiplexer? If so, boot up your AIS device first, then your multiplexer. Make sure the AIS device you are connecting to is in Ad-Hoc or Access Point mode, i.e. not linked to an internet hotspot or router
Restart your smartphone/tablet
Turn on the wifi on your smartphone/tablet and connect to the network of your AIS device
Open only the Waterkaarten app, no other apps
Connect to your AIS device in the app by entering the correct IP address and port
Connect with one smartphone or tablet to your AIS device
Activate AIS on the chart by tapping the AIS button at the top right of the chart
Give the app 10 minutes to retrieve all data (such as ship name, type etc) from the shipping around you
Test the setup while sailing

The Waterkaarten app uses the AIS and GPS data from your AIS device

If you are stationary in port, your AIS device may stop broadcasting GPS updates after a while because your boat is not moving. As a result, the app does not see your location. Sailing, however, does not cause a problem.

Tested

The AIS link is compatible with virtually all AIS receivers and transceivers with a wireless (wifi) network. We ourselves tested mainly with Quark-Elec and Em-trak AIS devices.

Quark-Elec wifi networks:
Wireless network password: 88888888
IP address: 192.168.1.100
Port: 2000

Em-trak wifi networks:
Wireless network password: emtrakais
IP address: 192.168.2.1
Port: 5000

Note: Garmin and Raymarine AIS devices do not transmit AIS over wifi, and to use GPS, a Garmin and/or Raymarine device requires a plotter. If you want to view AIS from your Garmin or Raymarine AIS device in our app, you will need a multiplexer to connect to our app.

Question 4

Tips and questions on AIS

Accepted Answer

AIS in de Waterkaarten-app, op de Waal bij Zaltbommel.

Linking an AIS device to the app is a fairly straightforward process. Nevertheless, there are a number of things to bear in mind after linking. Below, we’ve listed common questions and issues. You can find more on how to connect an AIS device via a wireless network in the FAQ section of our website.

AIS is designed for sailing

AIS is designed to be used when sailing. If you are stationary, for example, your transponder works differently to when you are sailing. A stationary ship transmits few updates. And, if you sail slowly, your device will transmit fewer updates than if you sail fast. That's how it works for all ships with an AIS device.

Do you think there are problems around AIS pairing with your device? If not already, go sailing first to see if the problem persists.

The start-up order is important

When you launch the Waterkaarten app, it is important that your AIS device is switched on. This sounds logical, but if you start the app first and then start your AIS device, chances are that the pairing will not work properly.

If you have successfully paired with our app before, and you have closed the app in a working state, the app will later start up again in that same state, i.e. with the connection on and the AIS button activated. The AIS button will then show the text 'AIS' with the hyphen (a chain) behind it.

Connect and activate

There are roughly two things that need to happen to see ships sailing in our app via your device: connect and activate.

To connect, after entering your IP address and port, slide the slider behind the name of your device to the right under AIS devices (on the profile page). This happens automatically the first time you enter your IP address and port. If you have no connection, check that the slider is to the right.

To activate, tap the AIS button, top right in the chart view, so that it turns blue.

When you connect to your AIS device, we immediately use the GPS data from your AIS device, if available. Activating will also display the AIS data on the chart. When connection fails, the AIS link sign in the AIS button on the chart changes to the AIS+ sign.

Sailing boats don't look as fluid

Commercial shipping AIS equipment does not constantly share its location via GPS, but once in a while. That can vary from once every six seconds, to once every three minutes. That is why a ship's course on the chart sometimes looks less fluent: boats jump across the chart every few seconds. Such a ship is probably not travelling very fast, say 8 kilometres per hour. In upstream (i.e. with the current against) on a large river, this is not at all unusual.

Not all brands are easy to pair with

Raymarine and Garmin AIS devices do not transmit AIS data over wifi. If you want to view your AIS data from your Garmin or Raymarine AIS device in our app, you need a multiplexer to connect to our app. To also use GPS from a Raymarine and/or Garmin device, you will need a plotter.

The app uses AIS and GPS from your device

Via the link with your AIS device, we of course retrieve AIS data from your device, but also GPS data, which allows us to better determine your location.

The GPS positioning of a smartphone or tablet is often good, but if you have your own antenna connected to your AIS device, it is often slightly more accurate. You don't have to do anything for this: it happens automatically.

Do you get the message that no GPS has been detected or that no GPS data is coming into our app? This may have several causes:

You are stationary and your AIS device is logically not transmitting GPS updates
You are sending too much data over your NMEA network
You have multiple GPS sources (antennas) in your NMEA network
You have the GPS on your phone/tablet switched on: this sometimes causes problems
You have Bluetooth enabled: this can cause problems with Em-trak equipment
There is a technical fault such as a non-functioning antenna, cable break and so on
Restarting the app, your phone/tablet and AIS device is often the solution

Em-Trak and GPS

You have a new Em-trak AIS device and you get the message: 'No GPS detected' even though you are connected to the app. This is probably because your AIS device is not sending out GPS. To make sure it does, you can connect your AIS device to a laptop via USB and use the program 'Pro AIS2' to adjust the settings of your AIS device.

Make sure the Baud rate of NMEA 1 is set to 38400
Make sure the four boxes at 'Output GNSS Sentences' are checked

AIS and/or internet?

Via the wireless network of an AIS receiver or AIS transponder, you can connect to a smartphone and/or tablet. In other words, via wifi. People often think of a wifi network as an internet connection. Of course, this is often the case, but an AIS device is not connected to the internet by default. Yet there are AIS devices that can connect to an internet hotspot or router, such as Quark-Elec and Em-trak devices.

Will I see live data if I connect my AIS device to the app?

Yes. There is no internet required. The data comes in through the antenna, and then into the transponder which then sends it out again via wifi. This process takes 0.1 seconds.

Compare it to video calling over the internet, which is arrow-fast these days. And that is even over the internet, the AIS connection is not. By the way, our app obviously also works without an internet connection.

Can you help me set up my AIS device?

We don't do that ourselves, but we do cooperate with Smartmarine.nl, a company that focuses on selling nautical equipment.

We started working with Smartmarine because, having bought an AIS transponder there ourselves, we were impressed with the service and after-sales we received. When we started working on the AIS link in our app, we asked Smartmarine for help a lot. This eventually resulted in good cooperation.

That's why we guarantee the operation between the AIS devices Smartmarine sells and our app. So if you have bought your AIS device from Smartmarine and there is an unexpected problem or you have a question, we will always look into it together. This way, we always have short lines of communication and come up with a solution quickly.

Smartmarine has put together several 'Waterkaarten deals' especially for Waterkaarten users. Competitively priced and with guaranteed operation and extra service. For example, Smartmarine can pre-programme your transponder (think of your MMSI number and ship's name), or enter your wifi hotspot data into your receiver.

Question 5

What does the AIS display in your app look like?

Accepted Answer

We are regularly asked what AIS looks like in our app, and why it increases safety on the water.

The example below shows what it looks like when you link your own AIS device to our app.

https://youtu.be/Rp49omPOOEo

Question 6

How do I connect my Quark-Elec AIS device to the app?

Accepted Answer

https://youtu.be/0e6xnEAgOZw

To connect an AIS device to the app, you need to do two things:

Your phone or tablet must connect to the wifi network of your AIS device or multiplexer
Your AIS device or multiplexer must be added in the app

Example #1: you have a Quark-Elec receiver with its own wifi network that, new out of the box, you want to connect directly to the app (Ad-Hoc mode):

Connect your phone or tablet to the wifi network of your Quark-Elec device. Often the name of that network includes the device's type number, for example 'A032'.

Password Quark-Elec wifi network: 88888888
Next, on the profile page under 'AIS devices', add your Quark-Elec device with:

IP address: 192.168.1.100
Port: 2000

You will then see (written in green) that you are connected.
By tapping the AIS icon on the map view in the app, you activate the AIS view on the map.

Example #2: You have an AIS device without its own wifi network that you want to connect, via a Quark-Elec multiplexer with wifi network, to the app:

First, make sure the multiplexer is connected (wired) to your AIS device (via NMEA0183 or NMEA2000), and has power.

Next, connect your phone or tablet to your Quark-Elek multiplexer's wifi network. Often, the name of that wifi network contains the device's type number, for example 'A032'.

Password Quark-Elec wifi network: 88888888
Then on the profile page, under 'AIS devices', add AIS set with:

IP address: 192.168.1.100
Port: 2000

You will then see (written in green) that you are connected.
By tapping the AIS icon on the map view in the app, you activate the AIS view on the map.

Question 7

How do I connect my Em-trak AIS device to the app?

Accepted Answer

https://youtu.be/0e6xnEAgOZw

To connect an AIS device to the app, you need to do two things:

Your phone or tablet must connect to the wifi network of your AIS device or multiplexer
Your AIS device or multiplexer must be added in the app

Example #1: you have an Em-trak transceiver with its own wifi network that, new out of the box, you want to connect directly to the app (Access Point Mode):

Connect your phone or tablet to the wifi network of your Em-trak device. Often the name of that network starts with the device's type number, e.g. 'B954'.

Em-trak wifi network password: emtrakais
Next, on the profile page under 'AIS devices', add your Em-trak device with:

IP address: 192.168.2.1
Port: 5000

You will then see (written in green) that you are connected.
Tapping the AIS icon on the map view in the app activates the AIS view on the map.

Example #2: You have an Em-trak transceiver without its own wifi network that you want to connect, via a Quark-Elec multiplexer, to the app:

First, make sure the multiplexer is connected (wired) to your Em-trak transceiver, and has power.

Next, connect your phone or tablet to your Quark-Elek multiplexer's wifi network. Often, the name of that wifi network contains the device's type number, for example, 'A032'.

Password Quark-Elec wifi network: 88888888
Then on the profile page, under 'AIS devices', add AIS set with:

IP address: 192.168.1.100
Port: 2000

You will then see (written in green) that you are connected.
By clicking the AIS icon on the map view in the app, you activate the AIS view on the map.

PLEASE NOTE: to use the GPS from your Em-trak device for your positioning in our app, a number of boxes must be ticked in the Em-trak's software, see picture below.

This way, the GPS from your Em-trak is also sent along to your multiplexer, and both AIS and GPS data from your Em-trak device can be received in our app. Also, the NMEA1 Baud rate should be set to 38400.

Usually this is already set, but you can check or adjust it yourself using the programme 'ProAis2', downloadable for free here from the Em-trak website.

Question 8

How do I link my AIS receiver or transceiver to the app?

Accepted Answer

https://youtu.be/gDuglmIIboE?si=41iV5q5Slt_nI7qK

You can link your own AIS device to our app via a wireless wifi network. In the video above, we link the app to Em-trak transceiver's wifi network, but any other AIS device can do so as long as it has its own wireless wifi network. No internet connection is required.

This is how to link your AIS device to the Waterkaarten app

To connect your own AIS device to the Waterkaarten app, first connect your smartphone or tablet to the wifi network of your AIS device
Open the app, go to profile page and tap 'AIS devices'
There you will see that you can add your AIS device. Tap 'Add AIS device'
Connect via TCP, enter the name of your transponder and tap 'Next'
Enter the IP address of your AIS device and tap 'Next'
Enter the port of your AIS device and tap 'Save'
You will now see your device listed, and you will see in green, 'Connected'

Tap the cross in the top right to go directly to the chart view. There you will see that the AIS-Pairing icon is still white. Tap it to activate AIS, and you will see the shipping traffic sailing around you in the app.

Tested

The AIS link is compatible with almost all AIS receivers and transceivers with a wireless (wifi) network. We ourselves tested mainly with Quark-Elec and Em-trak AIS devices.

Quark-Elec wifi networks:
Wireless network password: 88888888
IP address: 192.168.1.100
Port: 2000

Em-trak wifi networks:
Wireless network password: emtrakais
IP address: 192.168.2.1
Port: 5000

Note: Garmin and Raymarine AIS devices do not transmit AIS over wifi, and to use GPS, a Garmin and/or Raymarine device requires a plotter. If you want to see AIS from your Garmin or Raymarine AIS device in our app, you will need a multiplexer to connect to our app.

For more information on AIS in the Waterkaarten app, go to: AIS Pairing. If you have a question or comment, please contact us at support@waterkaarten.app.

Question 9

How do I activate and use the AIS+ function in the app?

Accepted Answer

What is AIS?

https://youtu.be/Iw4cZK5yNjA

AIS (Automatic Identification System) is a tracking system used for collision avoidance and maritime traffic monitoring. Ships transmit their unique identification, position and travel information several times a minute using on-board AIS transponders. This AIS information can be captured by nearby ships, satellites, and by AIS stations on shore.

This is a huge benefit for safety on the water. For example, ships with AIS can “look around the bend” to see if there is oncoming traffic. This is useful at busy junctions or in other special situations on the water.

Why do we call it AIS+?

The Waterkaarten app has the ability to display AIS data from other vessels while also displaying your current position to other app users. We call this function AIS+ because, in addition to the standard AIS image, you will also see other app users. Please note that showing other app users is only visible in our app. No AIS signal is transmitted from our app, only received.

How can I use the AIS+ service?

The AIS+ service is only available to subscribed users, not the free trial version. You do not need any external hardware to receive AIS+. A stable internet connection on the device on which the Waterkaarten app (from 2022) is installed is sufficient to receive the AIS+ image.

How do I enable and disable AIS?

If you click on the AIS+ icon in the top right corner of the map, it will connect to our server and turn blue.

The AIS+ icon can have three colours:

White: AIS+ is disabled and you are not visible to other app users
Blue: AIS+ is enabled and you are visible to other app users
Orange: The AIS+ signal is not as strong and the data may be less accurate

Within a few seconds you will see icons of ships equipped with AIS appear on your map. If you click on these icons, AIS data will be displayed (name, AIS number, speed, boat size and boat type).

Am I always visible too?

As long as the AIS function is activated (icon is blue or orange), you will also be visible to other users of the Waterkaarten app. It is not possible to use AIS+ yourself, but not to be visible to others.

You are only visible via AIS+ if you are located on, or very close to, the fairway. This is to prevent you from being visible as a ship on the map to other users of Waterkaarten while you have our app open at home.

Only in the Netherlands

Currently, the AIS+ function is only available for Dutch waters and the Port of Antwerp. We are working on further expanding the functionality, but it is not yet clear when we will launch this. The image below shows the AIS+ coverage area we apply in our app. You may still have coverage outside this area, but this is not guaranteed.

Question 10

How does the route planner work in the Waterkaarten app?

Accepted Answer

https://youtu.be/0v6KuIQmVzU

This video shows how the automatic route planner works.

Before planning a route, there are a few things to consider;

-Our route planner calculates travel time excluding waiting times at bridges or locks. So take into account extra travel time if there are locks and bridges on your route that need to be opened for you. How much time? It depends on the route you have planned and how busy it is along the way.

-Always check if there are fairway messages on your route, because our route planner calculates routes without taking fairway messages into account, but it does show the fairway messages in the route list, and after you have planned a route it shows a message at the top of the same route list 'Attention, fairway messages on route' if there are fairway messages on your route.
We do this for two reasons:
-A shipping notice is not always a stoppage and so often you can simply navigate the route despite those shipping notices.
-Many of our users plan their route well in advance. Chances are there are then shipping notices on their planned route, which are long gone by the time they want to sail that route.

There are three different ways to plan your route in the Waterkaarten mobile app:

Automatic route planning before your trip
- At the top of the app, tap the search bar. A new window will come up after this. In this window, select the 'Plan a route' option.
- Move the map until the big blue arrow points at your desired departure location.
- Tap "Choose as starting point".
- To add stopovers, tap "Intermediate" and move the map so that the arrow points at the desired location. Repeat this step until you have added all the stopovers.
- After you have entered your departure location, you will see the route on the map with the alternative routes (if available) shown in grey. You can select an alternative route by tapping the grey line.
- Finally, set your destination. Move the map again until it points at your desired location. Once you tap "Destination", the app will automatically calculate your best route based on the boat data you entered.
- Now all you need is a name for your route so you can save it. Or if you prefer, you can start your journey straightaway.
Manual route planning before your trip
- At the top of the app, tap the search bar. A new window will come up after this. In this window, select the 'Plan route manually' option.
- Move the map until the big blue arrow points at your desired departure location. Tap "Add".
- Move the map for each additional point you want to add to the route and tap "Add".
- Once your route is complete, tap “Done”.
- Now all you need is a name for your route so you can save it. Or you can start driving straightaway.
Simple route planning to a single destination (ideal when you're already out)
- This is for those times you want to naviagte to a location you've spotted along the way, for example to refuel or go out to eat. Move the map until you can see your destination.
- Tap the related symbol (e.g. a bridge, lock or marina). Information about the location will appear at the bottom of the screen. You'll also find a handy 'Route' button.
- If you tap this button, you can choose your departure point in the next step. To do this, move the map until the blue arrow points at your desired starting point. You can also choose your current location.
- Your route will be calculated automatically based on the boat data you entered. Warning: if you schedule your route this way, you won't be able to plan stopovers.

The route planner does not take depths into account. Depths can vary from season to season, day to day and even hourly. Nor does the route planner take into account current obstructions. This is because many people plan a route and only want to sail it later. So always check a planned route carefully. Let us know if you find any errors on your route so we can improve it.

Question 11

How do I post a review, photo or Skipper tip?

Accepted Answer

Reviews and photos

Have you been greatly helped by the harbor master? Or do you see something that could be improved? Share this with the other users by leaving a review in the app!

You can do this by, for example, tapping a marina POI in the app. Then you can scroll down and tap ‘Write a review’ at the bottom. After this, a new window will pop up where you can select the number of stars, share your experience and even add a photo.

Skipper tips

While sailing, do you see something striking at a bridge or lock that you feel another user should also know? Let them know with a Skipper tip!

You can leave a Skipper tip by tapping the relevant bridge or lock. Then tap ‘Write a Tip’ in the Tips section. In this way we keep each other informed about the latest developments on the water.

Question 12

Will I lose my remaining subscription/credit balance if I buy or renew?

Accepted Answer

If you already have an active (trial) subscription/credit to the Waterkaarten app, we automatically add your new credit at the end of your current credit. That means you can renew or extend your subscription/credit at any time without having to worry about losing any existing credit.

You can see your current subscription/credit at the top of your profile screen, by tapping the icon at the top right of the app next to the search bar.

Your (trial) subscription/credit ends automatically.

Question 13

How can I edit, copy, rename or delete my saved routes?

Accepted Answer

If you plan a lot of trips in different countries and types of waterways, you'll end up with lots of saved routes over time. For simplicity, it might make sense to delete some of the old routes.

Even if you want to keep all your routes, you'll find the following instructions helpful. All of these commands are available in the same menu.

For example, you can add a stopover to an existing route, correct a name or plan a similar route to one you've done before.

Here's how to access the route menu:

On an iPhone or iPad, these steps will look like this:

Step 1

This image shows what the route overview looks like in the Nautical Maps app

Step 2

Here's what the route menu looks like in Nautical Maps for iOS

And on Android devices, the menu looks like this:

Step 1

This is what the route overview screen looks like in the Nautical Maps Android app

Step 2

The route menu on the Android version of the Nautical Maps app

Question 14

Which operating systems does the Waterkaarten app support?

Accepted Answer

The Waterkaarten app is compatible with the following devices and operating systems:

Android smartphones and tablets running version 8 or newer
iPhones and iPads running iOS 13 or newer
Windows laptops and computers running Windows 10 or newer

Older versions of these operating systems may work, but not optimally: this may cause display errors and delays in how the app operates. We also no longer support older operating systems. The app will continue to work, but we no longer update or provide support.

Question 15

Can I transfer my routes between PC and tablet or phone?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can. Up to and including the 2021 version, you must first export the route and then email it to yourself. When opening this email on your phone or tablet, you will see the option to open the route in the Waterkaarten app. In addition, you can also email a route from the app to yourself and then import it into the software on your PC.

From the 2022 version on, routes are stored directly in your Waterkaarten account and synchronised on your devices, and thus can be used from any device.

Question 16

Does the Windows software also work with an internal GPS?

Accepted Answer

The software will work with internal GPS if it’s supported by Windows. But there are hardly any PCs on the market in the Netherlands that have built-in GPS. The advantage of a separate GPS is that you can place the receiver or antenna in a place with good reception. What’s more, a separate GPS is also cheaper than a PC with internal GPS.

Question 17

How can I link my Windows licence?

Accepted Answer

You can use the app and software version with the same licence. To log into the Windows software, use your email address and password that you also use for the app version.

Question 18

What kind of GPS do I need?

Accepted Answer

The Waterkaarten software for Windows works with virtually any GPS module (or antenna) that supports the NMEA protocol and is connected to the PC via a USB cable. Install the driver or the driver software that comes with the GPS module and is compatible with your version of Windows. We don’t recommend using a wireless GPS module.

To purchase an external GPS module for your tablet or PC, choose a model that can be connected with a USB cable. We recommend using an AIS receiver that also supports GPS. For GPS reception, we would recommend purchasing a GPS antenna with it.

There are also special versions with a longer USB cable, suitable for installation outside on the mast or railing.

In addition, the Windows software can use a GPS module that is connected to the on-board network via TCP.

Question 19

What are the system requirements for Windows?

Accepted Answer

The software version works with a PC with Windows 10 or 11 and at least 2 GB internal memory and 3 GB free space on the hard disk. The actual space needed on the hard disk depends on the sailing areas you download.

In the course of 2022, Microsoft will stop supporting the 32-bit version of Windows. After 2022, we will also stop developing a special 32-bit version of Waterkaarten for Windows.

Question 20

How can I download the maps to use offline?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, a good internet connection is not always available on the water. With the Waterkaarten app, you can therefore download the maps to your device for offline use.

1. Download maps in your profile

After installing the app, a pop-up window in the map view will ask if you want to download the maps.

You will find this option later in your profile (at the top right of the app next to the search bar). Select ‘Download maps’ from the ‘Maps’ section to save them to your device. The maps will install automatically in the background; you don't have to do anything.

2. Download maps in the map view

You can also download an area if you zoom the map out all the way.

When you zoom out, you will see white areas with black outlines. This is the overview of the maps you can download. Tap the desired area to start the download:

When the download is complete, the corresponding area will turn green:

Question 21

Are my routes available on all paired devices?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We’ve made it possible for you to view all your saved routes on any paired device. The only thing you will need is access to the internet.

Question 22

Where can I find the almanack info?

Accepted Answer

We have fully integrated almanack information into the maps in the app.

For example, the map shows so-called useful locations (POIs) such as bridges, harbours, locks and many more. Tap the POI icon for more information about this POI. Pull up the window or tap 'More...' for more information, such as opening hours, rates, and so on. If we know the phone number or email address of the POI, we will display it here and you can contact the POI directly from the app.

On this screen ('Map') you can also tap the 'Route' button to plan a trip to your chosen point.

You can find information about waterways by using the search function in the app.

Question 23

How do I open a shared route (.KMZ or .GPX file)?

Accepted Answer

How to import a route:

iOS:

Tap the .KMZ or .GPX file
Tap 'Share file via...' and then on 'Open in...'
You can now open the file with the Waterkaarten app. When you select the Waterkaarten app, the app imports the file automatically. You will receive confirmation in the app that the route has been successfully imported
You can find the route under 'Saved routes' by tapping the search bar at the top of the app

Android:

Tap the .KMZ or .GPX file
Open the file with the Waterkaarten app
You can find the route under 'Saved routes' by tapping the search bar at the top of the app

Download and open routes on the Waterkaarten website:

Starting 2022, it will be possible to download .KMZ and GPX routes from the Waterkaarten website to the app with a single click:

Open the webpage with the link to the route on your phone or tablet
Click the link on the page to download the route
You'll receive confirmation in the app that the route has been successfully imported
You can find the route under 'Saved routes' by tapping the search bar at the top of the app

Question 24

Where can I find the map legend?

Accepted Answer

Tap the profile icon (at the top right of the app next to the search bar), then 'Map Options' and then 'Legend' at the top of the list. Now you can see the legend explaining the map and its symbols.

Question 25

Can I choose another language?

Accepted Answer

Our app is available in English, German and Dutch. However, the nautical maps and the ANWB Almanac part 2 are only available in Dutch at the moment.

How to change the language:

Tap the profile icon at the top right of the app next to the search bar
Tap ‘My Language’ and select your preferred language

Question 26

On how many devices can I use the app?

Accepted Answer

You can use the app on three devices with a single account and single subscription, regardless of whether this is Apple, Android or Windows. You can download the Windows software here.

How to remove devices
If you tap the profile icon next to the search bar at the top right of the app, and then on 'Devices' (which you will find under 'Account'), you will see a list of the devices used on your account. By clicking on the name of a device, you can then remove it to free up space and use the Waterkaarten app with another device.

See also: How do I sign in with a second (and third) device?

Question 27

How can I customise the map display?

Accepted Answer

You can define the look of the map in your profile. To do so, tap the profile icon at the top right of the app next to the search bar, and then tap 'Map Options'.

There are a variety of elements you can customise including:

Directional arrow, scale and coordinates

Under 'Display', choose if you want to show a directional arrow at your position by activating 'Show directional arrow'. This is the black dotted line on your position arrow.

Here you can also specify whether you want to see the scale and coordinates.

Turning the map

When you have 'Turn on map rotation' activated, you can rotate the map yourself. You can find this option under 'Display' in your 'Profile'.

Points of Interest (POIs)

On the map you can find symbols for different POIs. Tap an icon to see more information about this POI.

The POIs are divided into several categories, such as moving bridges, locks, marinas, leisure and sports activities. You can choose which categories you want to show on the map. To do this, choose the option 'Select POIs' under 'Information'.

The Waterkaarten app even lets you know if your boat can pass under a bridge or not based on its size. Find out how to input your boat data into boat settings.

Question 28

How do I connect my iPad wifi (without GPS) to my iPhone?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, the iPad wifi doesn’t give your accurate location on the water, as this model does not have a GPS chip for location tracking. With the so-called 'Assisted GPS', the iPad can only roughly estimate positions via the Internet.

You can also use an external GPS module (recommended). We recommend using an AIS receiver that also supports GPS. For GPS reception, we would recommend purchasing a GPS antenna with it.

However, if you have an iPhone, you can share the GPS location of your iPhone with your iPad via Bluetooth. Here’s how this works:

Turn on Bluetooth on both iPhone and iPad
Open the Waterkaarten app on both devices
On your iPhone, access your profile by tapping the icon in the top right of the app next to the search bar
Tap 'Devices' and switch on 'Share GPS with iPad wifi-only models'
After a few seconds the connection will be established and you will see the message: 'Connection established'
You can now close this message. Tap the 'Map' icon at the bottom left in the menu bar to return to the maps

Warning: your iPhone must always be within Bluetooth range of the iPad (approximately 2 to 3 metres).

Question 29

How do I plan, change or share a route?

Accepted Answer

https://youtu.be/0v6KuIQmVzU

If you tap the map, a search bar appears at the top. Tap the search bar and select the 'Plan a route' option.

Once you've saved your first route, you'll also see the option to share it when you tap "options" below the title of a route.

Plan a route

Plan and save your trip by entering a departure point, a destination and, if it's relevant, a stopover. The route planner will also (where possible) show alternative routes in grey. You can select an alternative route by tapping the grey line.

Planned routes are saved and displayed on the screen you see after tapping the search bar at the top of the app and then choosing the 'Saved routes' option.

Record your route

If you choose this option, the app will record and save your route will sailing.

Recorded routes are saved and displayed on the screen you see after tapping the search bar at the top of the app and then choosing the 'Saved routes' option.

Share your route

You can share your saved routes with others. To do so, first tap the search bar at the top of the app and then tap 'Saved routes'. Next, tap the route you want to share, and select 'Share route'. There are a variety of sending options, including WhatsApp and email.

See also: Are my routes available on all paired devices?

Question 30

What is the boat dimensions feature for?

Accepted Answer

The reason we ask for your boat dimensions is to show you routes you navigate safely. Bridges you can pass through will appear in green on the map view.

If your boat is too wide or too high, you will see a red bridge symbol instead. And if you have to modify your boat to pass – for instance, if you have to fold up the mast – you'll see an orange bridge symbol.

To set the dimensions of your boat, go to your profile (option at the top right of the app next to the search bar). Then, from the section ‘Maps’, select the ‘My boat’ option.

Question 31

How can I let the map ‘run’ with my boat?

Accepted Answer

If you tap the arrow icon in the top left corner of the map (on Android, tap the visor icon), the map will centre on your current position. And from then on it will follow your position.

As soon as you move the map to display a different area, for example, it will stop following your position.

Question 32

Where can I find current information that affects navigation?

Accepted Answer

If there are any updates on waterways, bridges and so on, you'll see a warning triangle () on the map. Tap the icon to read the message.

Navigation messages for the Netherlands come from Rijkswaterstaat and we update them every hour. You will also receive an update every hour, as long as you have an internet connection. If you are not connected, you will see the messages from the last time you were online.

Question 33

How do I change my email address or delete my account?

Accepted Answer

Change email address

It is not possible to change your email address in the app. Please send us an email, if possible from the address you have used to register your subscription with. In the message, include your old email address as well as the address you would like to use in the future. We will then take care of the change for you.

Delete account

If you wish to delete your account, tap the red text 'Delete my account' at the bottom of your profile page in the app. Once you have gone through the steps and deleted your account, you still have 30 days before your account is permanently deleted from our system. Until then, you can restore your account simply by logging back into our app.

Question 34

How do I sign in with a second (and third) device?

Accepted Answer

Once you have installed the app on a device, you have an account for Waterkaarten. Your username is the email address you have used to register or the email address you have used to purchase the subscription/credit from the App Store or Google Play Store. If you are not sure, you can find your registered email address at the top of your profile screen.

You can download the app on a second (and third) device and then sign in with the same email address and password.

Forgot your password?

Sign out, then enter your email address on the screen and tap ‘Next’.
The app will now ask for your password. If you tap ‘Forgot password?’, you will receive an email to reset your password (please also check your spam folder).

You can use the app on three devices with a single account (and thus a single subscription).

Question 35

How can I request a refund?

Accepted Answer

You can request a refund if you're not satisfied with the app or if you accidentally paid for it twice.

The refund process varies depending on where you bought your subscription/credit.

Did you buy your subscription/credit in the Apple App Store or in your iPhone app? See information from Apple.

Or did you set it up in the Google Play Store or on your Android phone? See information from Google.

If you bought your subscription/credit here on the Waterkaarten website, please email us.

Before requesting a refund, please check the terms and conditions from the platform you bought your Waterkaarten subscription/credit from. You can find the Terms of Use of Waterkaarten here.

Question 36

How can I report an error or a correction?

Accepted Answer

If you come across incorrect information, please send us an email to let us know:

The location that's affected
The incorrect information as it appears in the app
The correct information.

We'd also be grateful for an accompanying photo or extra details to help us review the information.

It's thanks to your enthusiasm and generosity in sharing these updates and corrections that we can keep Waterkaarten the most up to date and accurate navigation app for boating in Europe. Thanks in advance!

Question 37

Where does the information in the app come from?

Accepted Answer

Our app always contains the latest information on waterways, marinas, bridges, locks and more. Waterkaarten is the only app to offer this information conveniently in 1 app.

In addition, we use public sources like Rijkswaterstaat. We also work with organisations such as Varen Doe Je Samen! and harbour masters.

The maps themselves are based on the water maps of the ANWB (2018). Since then we've been keeping them up to date and developing them.

Another very important source for up-to-date information are our users, including you! A lot of people who use our app send us corrections and provide feedback. Our editorial team reviews these messages and includes them in the maps.

More than 60.000 people use our app each year. Having such a large number of users helps keep our app more accurate and up to date than others on the market.

See also: How can I report an error or correction?

Question 38

How can I centre the map on my position?

Accepted Answer

In the map view, tap the arrow icon in the top left corner (on Android, tap the visor icon). The map will centre on your current position and follow it.

But as soon as you move the map to show a different area, the arrow won't be keeping you in focus and following your position.

Question 39

What payment options are there?

Accepted Answer

You can purchase your subscription/credit right here on this website. To do this, sign in at https://mijn.waterkaarten.app/login with the same email address and password that you use in the app.

You can also purchase a subscription/credit directly in the app (via a so-called in-app purchase). To purchase your subscription/credit, you will need an Apple or Google account. To do this, go to your profile and tap 'Extend’ or (if you have run out of credit) tap 'Buy now'.

Not sure which email address you use for Waterkaarten? You can find this info in your profile (icon at the top right of the app next to the search bar). There, under your credit, you will find the email address you are signed in with.

You get a confirmation email every time you pay for a subscription.

Question 40

The app is not showing the right number of days left on my balance

Accepted Answer

You might have just bought a subscription/credit but it’s not showing the right number of days left in your profile.

Make sure the email address you sign in with is the same one you used to pay for your subscription/credit. You can find this address in the confirmation email you received after your payment.