Frequently Asked Questions

General Information

What is Marine Navigation?
Marine Navigation is an offline GPS chartplotter built for sailors, anglers, and coastal navigators who want freedom and control at sea. You can use it offline, keep your data private on your device, and choose the plan that fits you: Premium (Subscription or Lifetime) or PRO (optional subscription for advanced tools). Trusted by navigators worldwide since 2009.
Why should I choose Marine Navigation?
Because it’s designed around real offshore needs: reliable offline navigation, privacy-first by design, and unmatched flexibility with custom maps. You’re not forced into “renting” access—Premium offers a Lifetime option, and PRO is optional if you want professional-grade features.
Which devices are compatible?
Marine Navigation works on iOS and Android smartphones and tablets.
Is Marine Navigation available in different languages?
Yes. The app is available in English, Italian, French, German, Spanish, Indonesian, and Turkish.
Can I use the app offline?
Yes. You can download and save maps directly to your device. Once saved, they are available offline, allowing you to navigate even without an internet connection.
Do you track my location or sell my data?
No. We value your privacy. Your location data, routes, and waypoints are stored locally on your device. We do not track your movements or sell your data to third parties.

Maps & Charts

What maps are included?
Premium and PRO give access to a wide selection of chart sources and layers, such as NOAA raster charts (U.S.), OpenSeaMap, ESRI satellite imagery, bathymetric maps, and other available layers inside the app. PRO also unlocks S57/ENC chart support via the proprietary PRO engine (PRO-only).
How often are maps updated?
Updates depend on the original providers (NOAA, ESRI, OpenSeaMap, etc.) and are published as they release them. You can refresh or re-download areas to get the latest available data. With PRO, you can also use official S57/ENC charts from authorized sources (where applicable).
Does Marine Navigation work worldwide?
Yes. The app works anywhere your device has GPS. Map detail depends on the layer and coverage in that area, and you can always supplement with your own Custom Maps (Premium/PRO) or S57/ENC charts in PRO (where available/authorized).
How do I import my own maps?
Marine Navigation supports importing georeferenced charts:
  • Premium: Import standard custom maps (up to 3000px, 2 maps limit).
  • PRO: Import unlimited high-resolution custom maps with advanced overlays.
  • Note: Official S-57/ENC chart support is available exclusively in the PRO version.
How do I upload ENC charts?
To upload your S-57 ENC files, use our dedicated upload portal.

Go to Upload Portal →
How do I delete maps?
Simply long-press on the name of the map you want to delete and confirm.

Subscriptions & Accounts

Can I try Marine Navigation before buying?
Yes. Start with the Lite version to test basic features. You can then choose between a Premium upgrade (Subscription or Lifetime) or the advanced PRO subscription for professional tools.
What is PRO and why should I upgrade?
PRO is our professional subscription that unlocks the most powerful features:
  • S-57/ENC PRO Engine: Official vector chart support.
  • Worldwide Offline Tides: Powered by FES2022b data.
  • Unlimited Custom Maps: No size limits, transparency control, and overlays.
How do subscriptions work?
  • Premium: Available as a flexible Subscription or a one-time Lifetime purchase.
  • PRO: Available as a Subscription only (monthly or yearly).
  • Your Data: If you cancel PRO, you keep your Lifetime purchase status and all your data (waypoints/routes), but PRO features will lock.
Can I use the app on multiple devices?
Yes. You can use your purchase on multiple devices as long as they are signed in with the same Apple ID or Google Play account. Use the "Restore Purchases" button in the settings to activate.
How can I request a refund?
Refunds are handled directly by the store platforms:
  • Apple (iOS): Use your purchase history at reportaproblem.apple.com.
  • Google Play (Android): Use the "Refund" button in the Play Store (typically within 15 minutes) or manage via your account settings.

Technical & Usage

Does Marine Navigation use my phone’s GPS?
Yes. Marine Navigation uses your device’s built-in GPS. External instruments such as AIS or NMEA inputs are not supported at this time.
Does Marine Navigation drain the battery?
Like any navigation app, continuous GPS use and a bright screen will reduce battery life. For longer trips, we recommend using a boat charger or a power bank. You can also reduce GPS update frequency in Settings to save power.
What happens if I reinstall the app? Will I lose my data?
Your routes, waypoints, and settings are stored on your device. If you delete the app completely, local data may be lost. Before reinstalling or changing devices, export your routes/waypoints (GPX) to keep a backup.
Can I share my routes and waypoints?
Yes. You can export and share them in GPX format via email or other apps. Offline maps, however, remain tied to your device.
Where can I find documentation?
You can find step-by-step guidance in the User Manual on our website, and video tutorials on our YouTube channel (see the links in the Download / User Manual sections).

Legal & Safety

Is Marine Navigation legal for professional/commercial use?
Marine Navigation is a powerful navigation aid and backup tool, but it cannot replace official certified charts required for professional or commercial operations. Always carry official, up-to-date nautical charts for your area and navigate responsibly.
Does Marine Navigation replace official charts?
No. This app is designed as a navigational aid and backup. Good seamanship requires always carrying official, up-to-date nautical charts for your area. The skipper is solely responsible for the safety of the vessel.

Support

Still have questions or ideas?
We’d love to hear from you. Contact us at contact@fishpoints.net.

Safety Notice: This app is for navigation reference and backup only. Always preserve safety at sea by carrying official nautical charts.