The qtVlm software comes with a basic GSHHS base map. You can then use several types of maps, such as:
- MBTILES maps that you can generate (for free) using Sasplanet, Maperitive, or other software…
- Visit My Harbor maps
- RASTER maps (kap, geotif, geojpg formats, etc.)
- NVCHARTS maps (in the Windows version)
- CM93 maps (note: these may be obsolete!)
It’s also possible to convert Google Earth views into maps for free. The method is described here : https://synapsenavigation.fr/2026/05/18/comment-convertir-gratuitement-des-images-google-earth-en-cartes-marines-pour-qtvlm/
But also:
- Vector charts in S57 format (via the SHOM website or NOAA)
- Vector charts in S63 format (via Chartworld or other sources)
Most importantly, Meltemus offers vector map packs that can be installed directly using the qtVlm software. These packs are:
- South Africa
- Germany, Netherlands, Belgium
- Antarctica, Falkland Islands, Indian Ocean
- Argentina, Falkland Islands
- Atlantic Ocean, France
- Brittany
- Brazil
- Caribbean
- Chile
- Colombia, Caribbean
- Colombia, Pacific
- Croatia
- Cuba
- Denmark
- Egypt, Red Sea
- Egypt, Mediterranean Sea
- Egypt, Suez
- Spain
- Faroe Islands
- France
- Gulf of Mexico
- Greece
- Greenland
- British Isles
- Cook Islands (CK) Niue (NU) Samoa (WS) Tokelau (TK) Tonga (TO)
- Indonesia
- Iceland
- Italy
- Madagascar, Comoros, Réunion
- Malaysia
- Malta
- English Channel
- Mediterranean Sea
- Pacific Mexico
- Montenegro
- New Caledonia
- New Zealand
- Panama
- Peru
- French Polynesia
- Portugal
- Romania
- Slovenai
- Transatlantic
- Turkey
- Uruguay
- Uruguay river
- Venezuela
Purchasing one of these packs gives you access to updates for one year. After this period, the maps can still be used even if you don’t renew your subscription => Meltemus Map Packs
Warning: I strongly recommend that you use up-to-date maps when navigating!!
