Charles Hays
Written by

Charles Hays

Author / Contributor

Charles Hays is the Sales & Marketing Manager at American Nautical Services, where he has spent nearly 17 years helping captains and chief officers of 500 GT+ yachts keep their ECDIS systems and digital chart libraries current, secure, and Flag State inspection-ready. Certified in ECDIS and holding an MBA from Florida State University, he also oversees the companys ISO 9001 Quality Management System, giving him a front-row view of what inspectors look for and where vessels fall short. Through his work at American Nautical Services and his weekly newsletter Bridge Watch, Charles covers chart compliance, Flag State requirements, and the regulatory updates that matter most to working maritime professionals.

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Navigating the Dismal Swamp Canal: Full Guide

Navigating the Dismal Swamp Canal: Full Guide

The Dismal Swamp Canal offers one of two routes connecting the Chesapeake Bay to Albemarle Sound along the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway...

American Nautical Chart Selector: Complete Guide to Features, Benefits, and How to Use It

American Nautical Chart Selector: Complete Guide to Features, Benefits, and How to Use It

Chart folio management is one of the most time-consuming parts of passage planning. During the appraisal stage alone, a navigation office...

Tips for Navigating the Erie Canal and New York State Canal System

Tips for Navigating the Erie Canal and New York State Canal System

The Erie Canal remains one of America's most historic and scenic waterways, offering boaters a unique passage across New York State. Stre...

10 Norwegian Sea Facts You Should Know

10 Norwegian Sea Facts You Should Know

The Norwegian Sea occupies a strategically important position in the North Atlantic, serving as a transitional zone between temperate and...

Different Types of Sailboats

Different Types of Sailboats: Full Guide

Sailboats come in dozens of configurations, each designed for specific purposes and sailing conditions. Whether selecting a vessel for co...