I use my iPad as a back up charting tool all the time. It has worked perfectly. This past summer we cruised from Connecticut to Virginia and as a test I used my iPad (with my built-in plotters and paper charts always at the ready) as the primary charting resource. I used eSea charts because I wanted to have Active Captain info embedded into the charts. I will be changing to the Garmin Bluechart Mobile app this spring. For 30 bucks, plus 5 bucks for some great weather info, I will have my entire cruising area covered. Check it out. An outstanding product. I still can't believe that I have these kind of tools available to me for this kind of price. After 50 years on the water, it just blows me away. Best to all, Don