Which chart projection is considered most suitable for coastal navigation?

The Mercator chart is considered the most suitable for coastal navigation due to its specific characteristics that are beneficial for navigating near shorelines. This type of chart uses a cylindrical projection that preserves angles, which means that mariners can plot a straight-line course with compass bearings directly on the chart. This feature is particularly useful in coastal navigation, where maintaining a specific bearing is crucial to avoid hazards and ensure safe passage.

Moreover, the Mercator projection exaggerates areas away from the equator but provides an accurate representation of shapes and angles, which helps navigators determine their positions and plot routes accurately. This is essential for navigating in coastal waters, where precision in navigation is necessary due to the proximity to land and potential obstacles.

While other chart types, such as conic and Aitoff projections, serve particular purposes based on geographic areas and are useful for broader navigation, they do not provide the same level of precision and functionality as the Mercator does for coastal navigation. The Robinson chart, although aesthetically pleasing and useful for showing global perspectives, is not optimal for the specific needs of navigation along coastlines.