What Is Obstn On a Nautical Chart?

As a sailor, it’s important to know what is labeled “Obstn” on a nautical chart and how to avoid it when navigating the seas or oceans near you in order to stay safe on your journey! In this article, we will discuss what exactly “Obstn” stands for and how to identify, avoid, or navigate around any obstacles you may encounter while sailing around the world’s waters!

Introduction: Definition & Description of Rigid Materials

The abbreviation “Obstn” stands for obstruction which consists of rigid materials that project above the bottom which can impede surface navigation and foul anchors if one is not careful! These can include fishing nets, buoys, wrecks, or reefs which are all potential hazards that can be found in the waters near you!

It is important to be aware of these objects in order to safely navigate around them when sailing! In addition, these objects can also cause damage to your boat if they are not avoided properly so it is important to be aware of their presence and take necessary precautions when sailing!

U.S Army Corps of Engineers & NOAA Charts: Role & What They Include

The United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is responsible for authorizing fish havens where these types of obstructions may exist and thus they are labeled with the abbreviation “Obstn” for obstruction on NOAA charts (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). These charts provide valuable information about marine navigation such as water depths, land features, hazards, navigational aids and more!

Therefore, it is important for sailors to be familiar with these charts as they provide essential knowledge about marine navigation in order to stay safe when sailing!

Fish Havens Labeled with “Obstn”: Definition & Reasoning Behind It

Fish havens are areas where fishermen take refuge from strong currents or storms while fishing offshore or in shallow waters, these areas are typically well-marked as they are authorized by USACE due to their potential hazard level!

Thusly, they are labeled with the abbreviation “Obstn” for obstruction on NOAA charts so that sailors can identify them easily when navigating around them!

It is important for sailors to be aware of these areas as they can present a potential hazard if not avoided properly so it is important that one familiarizes themselves with these areas before embarking on their next journey!

Steps To Avoiding Obstacles On A Nautical Chart: Types & Identification

In order to avoid any obstructions while sailing, one must first identify them by using a nautical chart, this can be done by looking for any objects which project above the bottom such as fishing nets or buoys as indicated by an “Obstn” label on a chart!

Once identified, one must then calculate the width of the obstacle in relation to their vessel, this can be done by measuring the depth of an object (which should be marked on a chart) against its width so as one knows how much room they have before hitting an obstacle!

In addition, one should also look out for any large ships which might create an obstruction when navigating near them, this can often be seen from afar so it’s best practice to keep an eye out for other vessels while sailing so as one has enough time to react if necessary!

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is essential that sailors are aware of “Obstn” labels on nautical charts which indicate potential hazards such as fishing nets or buoys which could impede surface navigation and foul anchors if not avoided properly!

The United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) authorizes fish havens where these types hazards may exist and thus they are labeled with the abbreviation “Obstn”on NOAA charts so that sailors can identify them easily when navigating around them, this provides essential knowledge about marine navigation in order ensure safety while sailing around the world’s waters!