Garmin's BlueChart Cartography to Include DigitalGlobe Imagery

DigitalGlobe has announced that it will provide to Garmin International, Inc., the high-resolution imagery for Garmin's BlueChart g2 — its new line of highly detailed cartography. BlueChart g2 with DigitalGlobe imagery is one of the first electronic charting devices to give boaters access to the high-resolution commercial imaging system.

"By supplying the detailed imagery behind the BlueChart g2, DigitalGlobe is helping to bring a new level of accuracy, realism, and reliability to one of the leading nautical navigation devices available today," said Marc Tremblay, vice-president and general manager of DigitalGlobe's commercial business unit. "We look forward to continuously enhancing the development of our digital archive, supplying Garmin's customers with the finest high-resolution satellite and aerial imagery available."

The BlueChart g2 plotters now feature worldwide imagery from DigitalGlobe for a realistic "view from space" map depiction. With the addition of BlueChart g2 Vision software, these images are upgraded to high-detail imagery with a 3D-view perspective, both above and below the waterline. Additional enhancements include general coastal road detail, marine services information, and improved IALA navigational symbols. Other chart features include port plans, wrecks, and restricted areas.

"Leveraging DigitalGlobe's images, the BlueChart g2 is one of the most advanced cartography devices available today, far surpassing traditional maps in its usability and accuracy," said Greg DeVries, Garmin's director of marine sales and marketing. "Our decision to utilize DigitalGlobe imagery was based on the company's reputation as one of the best providers of imagery available. DigitalGlobe has both the technology and customer base to prove it, and we are excited to work with them."