Support & FAQ

What is Hawaii Ocean Map?

Hawaii Ocean Map is an iOS app that provides detailed bathymetry (seafloor depth) maps for waters around the Hawaiian Islands. It's designed for fishermen, divers, and ocean enthusiasts who want to explore underwater terrain.

How do I view depth at a location?

Tap the crosshairs button in the toolbar to enable depth query mode. The depth at the center of the screen will be displayed. Pan the map to query different locations.

What do the colors on the map mean?

The map uses a color gradient to show depth: lighter blues indicate shallow water, while darker blues show deeper areas. Tap the "Legend" button to see the full depth color scale.

Internet connection required

An internet connection is required for the following features:

• Downloading map tiles - New areas must be downloaded before they can be viewed or cached for offline use
• Querying depth - Depth data tiles must be downloaded for areas you haven't previously visited
• iCloud sync - Syncing placemarks across devices requires an internet connection

Once tiles are downloaded, they are cached locally and will work offline.

Slow loading or performance issues

A poor or unstable internet connection can cause:

• Slow map tile loading (blank or blurry areas)
• Delayed depth queries
• iCloud sync failures or delays

Tip: For best results, download map tiles for your areas of interest while connected to a strong WiFi network before heading out on the water.

Map tiles not displaying

If map tiles appear blank or fail to load:

• Check your internet connection
• Try zooming in or out to trigger a reload
• Close and reopen the app
• If the problem persists, try clearing the tile cache in Settings

Where does the depth data come from?

Our bathymetry data comes from NOAA's Continuously Updated Digital Elevation Model (CUDEM) at approximately 3-meter resolution. This is professional-grade public domain data.

How accurate is the depth data?

The data is highly accurate for general reference, but should not be used for navigation. Actual depths may vary due to tides, seasonal changes, and data collection limitations. Always use official nautical charts for navigation.

What areas are covered?

The app covers waters around all major Hawaiian Islands including Oahu, Maui, Big Island, Kauai, Molokai, Lanai, and surrounding waters. Coverage extends from the coastline to deep ocean areas.

How do I create a placemark?

Tap the placemark button (pin icon) in the toolbar, then position the crosshairs at your desired location. Tap "Confirm Location" to set the coordinates, then fill in the name and details.

Can I export my placemarks?

Yes! Go to the Placemarks list, tap the share button, and choose your export format (GeoJSON or CSV). You can share the file via email, AirDrop, or save to Files.

How do I edit or delete a placemark?

Tap on a placemark annotation on the map or select it from the Placemarks list. You can edit its details or delete it from the detail view.

How do I enable iCloud sync?

Go to Settings in the app and toggle on "iCloud Sync". Your placemarks will automatically sync across all your devices signed in with the same Apple ID.

What data is synced to iCloud?

Only your placemarks (locations, names, categories, notes, and depths) are synced. Map tiles are stored locally on each device and are not synced.

Can I use the app without iCloud?

Yes, iCloud sync is completely optional. Your placemarks will be stored locally on your device if sync is disabled.

Does the app work offline?

Yes! Map tiles are cached as you browse. Previously viewed areas will be available offline. For best offline experience, browse the areas you need while connected to WiFi.

How much storage do the map tiles use?

The app caches up to 500 MB of map tiles. Older tiles are automatically removed when the cache is full. You can clear the cache in Settings if needed.

Why are some areas not loading?

If you're offline and haven't previously viewed an area, the tiles won't be available. Connect to the internet and browse the area to download the tiles for offline use.