The Shelters layer marks places on the map where a vessel can take cover from bad weather: harbours, bays and anchorages that offer protection from swell and wind. The points come from a worldwide register of ports and are supplemented with Arctic shelter locations.
What this feature is
When the layer is on, dedicated shelter markers appear on the map. Tap any marker to open a card with a short summary of the place:
- shelter quality — how well the harbour protects against waves and wind;
- harbour type — natural bay, port, roadstead or an artificially protected basin;
- depths — approximate figures on the approach and at the berths;
- ice and swell limitations — seasonal factors that may make entry difficult.
These details help you judge in advance where you could divert if the weather worsens or a technical problem arises.
Why it is useful
When planning a passage, it helps to see which shelters lie along your route. The layer gives a quick overview of possible places to wait out heavy weather without hunting through reference books. This is especially valuable on remote stretches and in Arctic waters, where harbours are few.
How to turn it on and read it
- Open the map.
- Tap the layers button (the stacked-sheets icon).
- In the list, tick the Shelters layer.
- Markers appear on the map. Tap any of them to open the details card.
To hide the layer, open the layers list again and clear the tick.
Important limitations
This is not an officially designated place of refuge. Each point is a port or anchorage with shelter according to a worldwide port register — not a location formally approved by authorities as a place of refuge for a vessel in distress. The decision to enter always rests with the master, subject to local requirements and permissions.
For reference only. The layer is not intended for navigation. Depths, shelter quality and limitations are approximate and may differ from reality. For an actual entry, use official nautical charts, sailing directions and current notices to mariners, and coordinate your arrival with port and coastal services.
The layer is a handy first orientation when planning, but it does not replace official sources or the crew's on-the-spot judgement.
See also