| Software | Compatibility | Notes | |----------|--------------|-------| | SeaClear II | No (raster only) | Not supported | | qNaval | Partial | Requires conversion | | Transas iSailor | No | Proprietary ENC only | | TimeZero | No | Uses official S-57/S-63 | | Navionics Boating | No | Proprietary format | | Seapilot (Android) | No | |
Only OpenCPN and older ECDIS emulators (like MaxSea v12 with plugin) can read raw CM93 v2.
Before we dive into the download and install process, it’s critical to understand what you’re dealing with.
CM93 v2 is a vector chart format originally developed by C-Map (now part of Navico). The "v2" refers to the second major version of their cartography standard, which was widely distributed between 2005 and 2015. The most sought-after edition in the sailing community is the "CM93 2013 Edition," which many still refer to as "the last good edition."
If you see gray squares instead of charts, you’re zoomed out too far (CM93 has no overview charts). Zoom in below ~1:500,000. cm93 v2 charts download install
Never rely solely on CM93 v2. Here is a tiered strategy for safe navigation:
| Source | Quality | Update Frequency | Cost | Use Case | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | CM93 v2 | Fair/Outdated | Never (2013) | Free (community) | Ocean passage planning, backup | | OE SENC (o-charts) | Very High | Monthly | $35–150/year | Official vector charts (EU, US) | | Satellite imagery (SAS.Planet) | High | 2020–2025 | Free | Anchoring, reef spotting | | RNC Raster (NOAA) | Good | Weekly | Free (USA only) | US coastal navigation |
If you encounter any issues during the download or installation process, consider reaching out to the device manufacturer’s customer support for assistance. They can provide model-specific guidance and troubleshooting steps.
While CM93 v2 charts were a staple of electronic navigation for years, they are now considered legacy technology. If you are using them for recreational purposes on older software, the installation involves simply pointing your navigation software to the extracted directory. However, for safety and legality, always prioritize purchasing legitimate chart data or using free, official government ENC files for real-world navigation. Before we dive into the download and install
CM93 v2 is a global vector chart format originally developed by C-MAP. While officially considered obsolete since approximately 2014, these charts remain popular among the cruising community because they are unencrypted and compatible with open-source navigation software like OpenCPN. Critical Warning
CM93 v2 charts found online are often outdated (most "recent" legitimate data dates to 2011–2012) and are frequently distributed via unofficial or pirated channels. Never rely solely on these charts for primary navigation. For safe passage-making, always use updated official ENCs or licensed charts from providers like o-charts. 1. Downloading CM93 v2 Charts
Because CM93 v2 is no longer sold to the public, users typically source them from maritime community forums or file-sharing sites.
Identify the Correct Version: Ensure you are getting Version 2. Version 3 is encrypted and will not work with OpenCPN. While CM93 v2 charts were a staple of
Verify the File Structure: A legitimate CM93 v2 folder should contain approximately 144 subdirectories (named with 8-digit numbers like 00300000) and a .EXD file (e.g., 20110803.EXD) in the top directory.
Sources: Community platforms like Cruisers & Sailing Forums or sites like Maritime Forum (SeaTracker) often host legacy download links. 2. Installing in OpenCPN
Once downloaded and extracted, follow these steps to add the charts to your navigation system: CM93v2 chart download - Cruisers & Sailing Forums
CM93v2 chart download - Cruisers & Sailing Forums. Forums. New Posts. Home > Seamanship, Navigation & Boat Handling > OpenCPN. Cruisers Forum Installing Charts - OpenCPN
| Problem | Likely Cause | Solution |
|---------|--------------|----------|
| “No CM93 charts found” | Wrong folder name | Re-add directory, ensure CM93EDITION.DAT exists |
| All charts show as tiny outlines | Missing detail cells | Your copy is partial – find full 2.5GB set |
| Chart edges have vertical lines | Outdated cell boundary file | Delete CM93DICT.DAT and rebuild database |
| OpenCPN crashes on zoom | Corrupted cell in folder 04800000 | Temporarily move that folder out, then rebuild |