OpenCPN 4.0.0

OpenCPN ❘ Open Source ❘
Android Windows

OpenCPN: The Ultimate Open Source Navigation Tool

Elena Angelini

12/19/2024

OpenCPN offers sailors a powerful, feature-rich open source chart plotting and navigation solution that is both user-friendly and highly customizable.

OpenCPN is a free, community-developed navigation software that provides high-quality chart plotting features. With OpenCPN, boaters, sailors, and other watercraft operators can plan and navigate routes, track vessels' positions, and monitor weather conditions.

The software contains a comprehensive set of tools to enhance navigation safety and convenience, including vector charts, support for Tides and Currents databases, GPS tracking and AIS (Automatic Identification System) which allows users to establish contact with nearby vessels. Besides that, it supports multiple operating platforms such as Windows, macOS, and Linux.

OpenCPN's interface is user-friendly with main features easily accessible from the toolbar, providing quick access to all functions. The software can display various types of individually customizable data such as vessel information, weather information or route information.

OpenCPN is a highly practical tool for any boating navigation enthusiast or professional seeking an efficient solution with every aspect of navigation planning at their fingertips.

Overview

OpenCPN is a Open Source software in the category Desktop developed by OpenCPN.

The users of our client application UpdateStar have checked OpenCPN for updates 157 times during the last month.

The latest version of OpenCPN is 4.0.0, released on 09/30/2015. It was initially added to our database on 02/18/2009.

OpenCPN runs on the following operating systems: Android/Windows.

OpenCPN has not been rated by our users yet.

Pros

Free and open-source software, which means it is accessible to a wide range of users
Cross-platform compatibility - available for Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems
Offers a wide range of chart support for sailors and boaters
Provides a variety of tools for navigation, route planning, and weather routing
Active user community for support and troubleshooting

Cons

UI design may not be as intuitive for beginners
Requires some technical knowledge to fully utilize all features
Occasional stability issues reported by users
Limited customer support compared to paid software options

FAQ

What is OpenCPN?

OpenCPN is a free software (GPLv2) project to create a concise chart plotter and navigation software, for use underway or as a planning tool. OpenCPN is developed by a team of active sailors using real world conditions for program testing and refinement.

What are the system requirements for OpenCPN?

The minimum requirements for OpenCPN are a computer running Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8 or 10 (32 or 64 bit), Linux or Mac OS X 10.7+ with OpenGL support, an Intel-compatible CPU, and at least 1GB RAM.

What chart formats does OpenCPN support?

OpenCPN supports a number of common chart formats, including S-57, S-63, CM93, BSB/KAP and NV-Verlag. The software also supports the use of Google Earth images and NOAA raster charts.

Can I use OpenCPN with AIS and other navigation instruments?

Yes, OpenCPN can work in conjunction with AIS receivers, autopilots, GPS devices and other navigation instruments via NMEA0183 or NMEA2000 protocols.

Is there a user manual or documentation available for OpenCPN?

Yes, comprehensive user manuals are available on the OpenCPN website and forum. In addition, there is an active community of users who are willing to help answer questions and provide support.

Can I customize the user interface in OpenCPN?

Yes, OpenCPN has a number of customizable settings and options to allow users to create a personalized user interface that works best for their needs.

Is OpenCPN compatible with touchscreen devices?

Yes, OpenCPN has been tested on touchscreen devices and can be used effectively with such devices, although some adjustments to the user interface may be necessary.

Can I contribute to the development of OpenCPN?

Yes, OpenCPN is an open source project and contributions from developers, users and other interested parties are always welcome. The project is hosted on GitHub and interested contributors can join the project's development team.

Is OpenCPN available in languages other than English?

Yes, OpenCPN has been translated into several languages by volunteers from the user community. Translations are available for download on the OpenCPN website.

Is there a mobile version of OpenCPN available?

Currently, there is no official mobile version of OpenCPN available. However, there are several third-party developers who have created mobile apps based on the OpenCPN code.

Elena Angelini

I'm Elena, your go-to software reviewer at UpdateStar and tech enthusiast. Whether you're a user seeking the latest software titles or software news I've got you covered. When I'm not diving into the latest software, you can find me exploring nature trails, camping under the stars, or competing in online multiplayer games. My reviews are designed to be fun, engaging, and packed with all the details you need to make informed decisions.

Latest Reviews by Elena Angelini

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Installations

157 users of UpdateStar had OpenCPN installed last month.

Latest Version
4.0.0

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