Getting started

An overview of the VoyagePilot interface and the first steps to plan a passage.

The interface at a glance

VoyagePilot is built around three areas:

  1. The map (center) — a marine base chart that displays your route, weather overlays, AIS traffic, points of interest, and more.
  2. The sidebar (left) — 11 tabs grouping every function: route planning, weather, logbook, safety, etc. See the tabs overview.
  3. Floating panels (over the map) — the overlays panel and the forecast controls panel, which you can drag and collapse.

The app runs with no backend: your routes, settings and logbooks are stored locally on your machine and never leave your device (see Reference). An internet connection is only needed to fetch weather, online charts and some data.

First steps: planning a passage

  1. Pick your area — open the Zone tab to review the monthly climate and best sailing windows.
  2. Draw a route — in the Route tab, click the map to add waypoints, or import a GPX file. You can also start from a ready-made itinerary in Destinations › Catalog.
  3. Choose your boat — select a speed polar in the Route tab so time estimates are realistic.
  4. Load the weather — open the forecast panel, pick a mode (wind, pressure, waves) and scrub through time. For offshore work, import a GRIB.
  5. Optimize — run isochrone routing to get the fastest track given the weather and your polar.
  6. Check safety — review weather alerts, the coastal approach planner, and spot shelters along your track.

Showing / hiding overlays

Everything layered on the map (wind, currents, AIS, harbours, regulated zones…) is controlled from the overlays panel, organized into 8 categories. See the overlays overview. Tip: some overlays (ENC charts, buoyage, wrecks, ports…) only appear above a certain zoom level.

Language and theme

Language (French / English) and theme (dark by default, night mode) are set in the Config › General tab.

Going further