Primar

PRIMAR is a non-profit Regional ENC Coordinating Centre (RENC) operated by the Norwegian Hydrographic Service. It provides official Electronic Navigational Charts (ENCs) for use in Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems (ECDIS) and Electronic Chart Systems (ECS). PRIMAR’s mission is to enhance safety at sea and protect the maritime environment by delivering consistent and reliable ENC services worldwide.

Established to support the International Hydrographic Organization’s (IHO) objectives, PRIMAR collaborates with national hydrographic offices to ensure the availability of up-to-date and accurate navigational data. The service is designed to meet the SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) requirements for chart carriage and usage.

PRIMAR’s ENC database includes over 16,000 ENCs, covering global maritime areas. The service supports a wide range of users, including commercial shipping, naval forces, and governmental agencies, providing them with the necessary tools to navigate safely and efficiently.

PRIMAR utilizes advanced technology to deliver high-quality ENC services. The system incorporates automated processes for data validation, ensuring that all charts meet international standards and are free from errors. This commitment to quality control enhances the reliability of the navigational data provided to users.

The service is continuously evolving to incorporate new standards and technologies. PRIMAR is actively involved in the development and implementation of the S-100 framework, which aims to modernize and improve the interoperability of maritime geospatial information systems. This forward-thinking approach ensures that PRIMAR remains at the forefront of maritime data services.

In addition to ENC distribution, PRIMAR is exploring the integration of additional maritime data services, such as bathymetric data and environmental information. These initiatives aim to provide users with comprehensive datasets that support a wide range of maritime operations and decision-making processes.

PRIMAR offers a comprehensive suite of products and services to meet the diverse needs of its users. The primary offering is the ENC service, which provides official charts in S-57 format, compatible with ECDIS and ECS. These charts are regularly updated to reflect changes in navigational conditions and ensure compliance with international regulations.

To facilitate access to its services, PRIMAR provides the Chart Catalogue, an online platform that allows users to browse, select, and order ENC products. The catalogue includes detailed information about each chart, including coverage areas, update status, and pricing.

For organizations requiring customized solutions, PRIMAR offers tailored services that can be integrated into existing systems. These services include data delivery options, such as direct downloads or media distribution, and support for various data formats to accommodate different user requirements.