The UK Hydrographic Office and the French Hydrographic and Oceanographic Service have joined forces to run cross-border sea trials for the new S-100 hydrographic data standard, reports Safety4sea.
This collaboration aims to generate real-world evidence on how S-100 can improve maritime safety, enhance situational awareness, and support the future of digital navigation. Their joint effort also intends to guide international adoption of the standard, helping the maritime community transition smoothly from older systems.
S-100 hydrographic data standard
S-100 is a modern Universal Hydrographic Data Model designed to integrate a wide variety of navigational and environmental datasets into a single, clear display. Unlike traditional chart formats, S-100 can support multiple layers—such as bathymetry, water levels, currents, navigational warnings, and more—without overwhelming the user. This multi-layer structure enables mariners to access richer, more dynamic information, improving decision-making in all types of operating conditions.
The trials will test six key S-100 product layers, including electronic navigational charts, bathymetric surfaces, water levels, surface currents, navigational warnings, and a catalog of nautical products. To ensure broad compatibility, the testing will be conducted on a range of ECDIS units and portable pilot systems from various manufacturers. Vessels from ferry, commercial, and defense sectors will participate, operating with dual-fuel ECDIS systems capable of using both the legacy S-57 format and the new S-100 format.
Scheduled for early 2026, the trials will take place along the route between St. Helier and Saint-Malo. This area provides the perfect testing environment due to its complex tides, cross-border waters, and navigation challenges. The route will allow the teams to evaluate how well S-100 performs under demanding, real-world conditions.
For the maritime sector, the implications are significant. S-100 promises greater safety through improved situational awareness, smoother international interoperability, and navigation systems that are far more adaptable to future technologies. By making trial data public, the hydrographic offices hope to help ports, shipping companies, regulatory bodies, and chart providers prepare for the industry’s next major step forward. This initiative represents one of the most comprehensive S-100 trials to date and marks an important milestone in shaping the future of global navigation.
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Source: Safety4sea
