Since 1990, the structure and spectrum of the task and responsibility of HOPN have been changed several times. In spite of some difficulties we have conducted survey works, compiled and produced nautical charts and publications in accordance with IHO standards and recommendations. Our production scope consists of fifty editions of nautical charts, weekly edition of Notices to Mariners written in Polish and English, List of Lights, List of Coast Radio Stations, Sailing Directions and others. We have taken care of safety for navigation as a National WWNWS Co-ordinator. Furthermore, we have created and set up close international relations with other IHO members.

Making paper charts and publications in the traditional way, we understood the need for starting digital production flow to give navigators the convenient tool to improve positional accuracy and speed up the process of the delivery of corrections. By the end of this year, Polish EEZ including harbours and inner waters will be covered by official ENC cells compiled by HOPN.
At this moment, I would like to raise one very important thing. Opening the new era of sophisticated, technologically advanced equipment and software we should still remember the traditional means of creating charts and publications. Any negligence in making basic navigation functions can cause a dangerous situation at sea.
During the last decade we signed bilateral agreements with NIMA from the United States of America and the United Kingdom Hydrographic Office, receiving from them assistance and support. Moreover, we have established very close co-operation with BSH from Germany to exchange data and produce a small craft charts series for the area of Zatoka Pomorska (Pomeranian Bay) and Zatoka Gda–ska (Gulf of Gdañsk) in a Polish-German-English version.
When I was a chairman of the Baltic Sea Hydrographic Commission I found an atmosphere of friendliness, kindness and sympathy.

Taking into account our latest achievements, I am sure that the Polish Hydrographic Service will safely navigate towards ‘deepwaters’.

Finally, let me express one more thing. After last year’s tragic and terrifying incidents, the very changeable world will challenge hydrography and for reasons of safety hydrography should catch up with all of the new aspects of the world situation.