What does a nautical chart typically include for navigation purposes?

A nautical chart is specifically designed to assist with maritime navigation and typically includes bathymetric details, which refer to the depth of water bodies and the underwater features such as the contours of the seabed, shoals, reefs, and other obstructions that may affect navigation. These details are critical for mariners to safely navigate through waterways, ensuring they can avoid hazards and determine safe passage routes.

While aspects like land masses may be depicted on a nautical chart, the primary focus is on the underwater terrain and navigational aids such as buoys and lighthouses, which are crucial for safe maritime travel. Political boundaries and weather patterns are not typically the focus of nautical charts; political boundaries are usually represented in other types of maps, while weather patterns are best summarized in meteorological charts. Therefore, bathymetric details stand out as the essential element of nautical charts that directly serve the needs of navigators at sea.