CANStar Navigation offers an ARPA Radar/ECDIS combination, running on a personal computer, which makes it accessible to all levels of the marine industry. The system, which features 3-dimensional radar display, can be integrated with most standard navigation sensors, and drives autopilots and other automated steering systems. CANStar also offers a radar board in combination with sophisticated software functionality, which can be used for radar overlay purposes by ECDIS and ECS manufacturers.
After conductting a cost-benefit analysis based on electronic charting systems in use in their fleet, the Canadian Coast Guard concluded the addition of electronic chart systems to the balance of their fleet would result in a "very positive" net present value over a 10-year period.
"The benefits will be direct (fuel saving; engine movement reduction; actual time saving) and indirect (improved operational efficiency; delay day decrease; accidents avoided). More specifically, the final calculations indicate for every dollar invested in ECDIS, benefits of $18 would result. The payback calculations show the entire cost of the project will be recovered in approximately 12 months, based on the identified benefits from productivity gains."
The vice-president, fleet management of Canada Steamship Lines (CSL), a company that equipped its entire fleet with ECDIS equipment, stated CSL recouped its million-dollar investment in under six months.
The chief of marine services of the St. Lawrence Seaway Authority, said, "Vessels carrying ECDIS systems were able to navigate the St.
Lawrence Seaway when other vessels would be held in port." He added vessels fitted with radar overlay operate at a considerable advantage because they are permitted on the Seaway after nightfall.