This hydrographic risk assessment allows the Vanuatu Government, with the support of regional charting authorities, to come to a conclusion about the nature and scope of chart improvement surveys in Vanuatu. It provides recommendations and conclusions to assist decision makers to prioritise hydrographic surveys in Vanuatu for the provision of accurate and adequate nautical charts to meet the needs of contemporary shipping.
The overall conclusion, based on evidence of economic growth, as well as vessel transit risk, is a need for improved charting. The findings are supported on grounds of traffic risk and of positive economic growth in Vanuatu. The economic case for hydrographic risk is made on cruise-vessels alone, but notes there is also transit risk associated with domestic coastal cargo vessels.