PRIMAR has released its first official Electronic Navigational Charts (ENCs) based on the S-100 standard, supporting live sea trials on Canada’s St Lawrence River to test the use of the new format within next generation of electronic chart display and information systems (ECDIS).
The trials, led by the Canadian Hydrographic Service (CHS), mark the first large-scale, real-world test of the S-100 framework, developed by the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) to replace the long-standing S-57 standard.
S-100 introduces a multi-layered data model capable of supporting more dynamic and interoperable navigation tools, and is due for adoption in January 2026. S-57 data will continue to be offered in parallel during the transition.
The six-month trial programme, running from June to November 2025, covers a 350 km section of the St Lawrence River between Quebec and Montreal—one of Canada’s busiest inland waterways, offering a challenging environment for testing due to strong currents, tidal ranges, bridges, and overhead cables.
As part of the trials, mariners, OEMs, software developers, pilots, VTS centres, and port authorities will be asked to evaluate the display and integration of various S-100 datasets for planning, navigation, and situational awareness, both on board and using simulators.
PRIMAR is one of two global Regional ENC Coordinating Centres (RENCs) alongside IC-ENC (International Centre for ENCs) and will be responsible for validating and distributing the datasets used in the trials.
The centre has released the CHS-produced S-101 ENCs, along with S-102 Bathymetric Surface data, with additional products including S-104 Water Level Information, S-111 Surface Currents, and S-124 Navigational Warnings to follow.
“These tests will enable us to assess the interoperability of the different datasets and how the various layers of information – such as bathymetric, tide and current data – are displayed and function together in an ECDIS system. We will also be able to test S-100 data distribution across the value chain from producer via suppliers to an end-user system,” said PRIMAR Director Hans Christoffer Lauritzen.
“(The new standard) allows for more precise route planning, faster port turnarounds, safer navigation calculations and real-time adjustments based on detailed environmental data to realise fuel savings and other efficiencies.”
“The interoperability of these datasets can enable AI-driven navigation systems to make more accurate decisions about vessel routing, potential obstacles, safe passage times and optimal navigation strategies, ultimately enhancing safety, operational efficiency and sustainability,”
