The above image, captured
(from a Raymarine C80) as we sailed northward along Soufflets Arm,
shows a radar scan superimposed on the chart (Navionics Gold) and indicates an inaccuracy
of approximately ¾ nm to the northwest. S/V Staragan was actually about
here when the chart image was captured. The Sailing Directions (publication ATL 101 of Fisheries and Oceans
Canada) notes "the plan of Pigeonniere and Soufflets Arms on chart 4505 is reported to be unreliable." Our observations provide some assessment of the extent of unreliability.
Other measurements we took in this respect showed similar yet inconsistent deviations,
possibly attributable to multiple chart distortions.
We certainly advise heightened vigilance along with reduced reliance
on charted data (both electronic and otherwise) when navigating in the
area at night and/or during periods of reduced visibility.
Jim Wyse, aboard S/V Staragan in 2009; photo by Dwight Howse.