S-100 – The Maritime Data Standard of the future

The maritime sector is undergoing a digital transformation, where increasing demand for safety, efficiency and environmental protection are driving the need for more detailed and dynamic maritime data. At the same time, modern technology and growing complexity in hydrographic data are placing new requirements on both authorities and users. At the heart of this development lies S-100, forming the foundation for future e-Navigation and maritime information services.

What is S-100?

S-100 is an international standard developed by the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO). The standard establishes a common framework for maritime data, enabling information from diverse sources to be integrated and presented seamlessly in Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems (ECDIS). In 2022, S-100 was officially adopted as an ECDIS standard by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

With S-100, we gain:

  • Enhanced safety for maritime navigation
  • Improved environmental protection through efficient route planning
  • Faster and more detailed updates of nautical charts and maritime data
  • Opportunities for new digital products and services for maritime stakeholders

You can read more on IHO’s official S-100 webpage.

Data and products under S-100

S-100 encompasses a series of product specifications for various datasets, which are set to replace the current standards used in ship navigation systems. Among the key datasets are:

  • S-101 – Electronic Navigational Chart (ENC)
  • S-102 – Bathymetric Surface
  • S-104 – Water Level Information for Surface Navigation
  • S-111 – Surface Currents

The plan is for the first datasets in the new format to be launched in 2026. A full list of product specifications can be found on the IHO’s S-100 based Product Specifications webpage.


Infographic of S-100 World by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO). Image: DFO

The role of the Danish Geodata Agency

As Denmark’s national hydrographic authority responsible for hydrographic surveying and charting, the Danish Geodata Agency (Geodatastyrelsen) plays an active role in the implementation of S-100. We are working persistently to adapt our production processes, workflows and data structures to be able to deliver S-100-compliant data for Danish and Greenlandic waters. Furthermore, the Danish Geodata Agency actively participates in several international working groups under the IHO.

S-100 work already underway

To ensure robust implementation of S-100 in Danish and Greenlandic waters, the Danish Geodata Agency is participating in a range of initiatives and projects aimed both at developing new products and at preparing our infrastructure for future digital maritime services. Among the initiatives laying the foundation for S-100 work at the Danish Geodata Agency are the projects; Baltic Sea e-Nav and the Plan for the Implementation of the ENC Grid in Denmark.