UK Hydrographic Office (UKHO)

The UK government agency responsible for producing nautical charts, publications, and navigational information to support safe maritime navigation. 

The UK Hydrographic Office is an executive agency of the UK Ministry of Defence, providing hydrographic and geospatial data for both military and commercial maritime use. It produces and maintains Admiralty charts and publications, which are widely used by mariners worldwide to ensure safe passage through coastal and international waters. The UKHO gathers data from various sources, including surveys, satellite imagery, and reports from ships, to update navigational products and ensure their accuracy. It also plays a role in supporting maritime safety, environmental protection, and international hydrographic cooperation. The organisation contributes to the UK’s obligations under the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO), ensuring that navigational information is up to date and accessible.