River Canal Rescue has launched a web version of its free mapping tool – WaterNav – enabling its 15,000+ users to route plan and search data on more devices, instead of relying solely on the smartphone app.
Previously, inland waterway navigations were only available to view and route plan on the WaterNav app, which due to smartphone screen sizes, could be problematic. The new online version makes journey planning easier as people can access bigger screens, such as PCs, laptops and tablets etc.
Offering the same features as the app, the web version is quick for route planning, taking seconds, with results seamlessly transferring to mobiles, where required. However, because this version isn’t app dependent, users only have to open WaterNav in their web browser to plan, share and download routes, and then access offline on their devices.
WaterNav shares vital information, including CRT stoppages/notices etc, offering alternative routes; all the waterway information on locks, bridges, turning points etc, preventing boaters from going down non-navigable routes and potentially causing damage to marine environments, plus details of pubs, shops, vets, diesel, moorings etc.
App and browser users who set up an account (also free), can update journey information, such as waterway facilities, points of interest and obstructions/issues as they arise, save routes once cruised, keep logs of where they’ve been, add photos and share with friends and on social media.
Marinas and local waterway businesses are equally encouraged to input their feedback.
WaterNav also has a SOS function, using the data signal as opposed to network coverage, plotting the phone’s GPS co-ordinates and What 3 Words location, to summon RCR help. Identifying the user’s position within a 5m radius is invaluable in emergency situations or when cruising on rivers with no access.
RCR managing director, Stephanie Horton, comments: “We’re keen for WaterNav to be the ‘go-to’ navigation and information tool for boaters, and these changes give people more choice on how they view and plan routes.
“We now offer the best of both worlds; a browser version for people to explore and plan their routes before they go and the app version while on the water. Next step is a function that updates customers on our engineers’ arrival time, so watch this space.”
To access WaterNav via a web browser, go to https://web.waternav.co.uk/ and download as an app, go to Google Play or the App store. Find out more about River Canal Rescue at https://www.rivercanalrescue.co.uk/waternav-app/ or follow the team on Facebook.
