Convert KAP to KMZ
How to convert KAP marine chart files to KMZ for use in Google Earth and GIS applications.
Make KMZ files online
We can't read KAP files yet, so this conversion isn't available. If you can export your work to one of these formats, we'll turn it into KMZ:
How to convert kap to kmz file
- GPS navigation, maps, GIS
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Understanding KAP and KMZ file formats
KAP files are raster chart files commonly used in marine navigation. They are part of the BSB format, containing georeferenced map images and metadata, and are widely used in navigation software and chart plotters.
KMZ files are compressed Keyhole Markup Language (KML) files used by Google Earth and other GIS applications. A KMZ file can contain geographic data, images, and overlays, making it ideal for sharing and visualizing geospatial information.
Why convert KAP to KMZ?
Converting a KAP file to KMZ allows you to view marine charts in Google Earth or other GIS tools, enabling easier sharing, visualization, and integration with other geospatial data.
How to convert KAP to KMZ
Direct conversion from KAP to KMZ is not natively supported by most GIS software. However, you can use specialized tools to achieve this:
- OpenCPN (with plugins): OpenCPN is a popular open-source marine navigation software that can read KAP files. With the GE2KAP plugin, you can export KAP charts as overlays for Google Earth in KMZ format.
- Global Mapper: This powerful GIS tool can import KAP files and export them as KMZ overlays. Use File → Export → Export Web Format → Export KML/KMZ to save your chart as a KMZ file.
- QGIS: QGIS can open KAP files (with the appropriate plugin) and export map views as KMZ using Project → Import/Export → Export Map to KML/KMZ.
Recommended software for KAP to KMZ conversion
Global Mapper is the most robust and user-friendly option for converting KAP to KMZ, offering advanced export settings and high compatibility. For free alternatives, OpenCPN with the GE2KAP plugin is a solid choice for marine chart users.
Step-by-step conversion using Global Mapper
- Open your KAP file in Global Mapper.
- Go to File → Export → Export Web Format → Export KML/KMZ.
- Configure export settings as needed (e.g., image resolution, area of interest).
- Click OK to save your KMZ file.
Conclusion
Converting KAP to KMZ enables you to use marine charts in Google Earth and other GIS platforms. Global Mapper and OpenCPN with the GE2KAP plugin are the best tools for this conversion.
Note: This kap to kmz conversion record is incomplete, must be verified, and may contain inaccuracies. Please vote below whether you found this information helpful or not.
KAP vs KMZ: format comparison
How the KAP and KMZ formats compare on the properties that matter most for this conversion.
| Property | .KAP BSB Nautical Chart / KAP chart | .KMZ Keyhole Markup Zip |
|---|---|---|
| Data model | Raster | Vector |
| Attribute table | No | Yes |
| Coordinate system | Embedded in the file | Embedded in the file |
| Plain-text readable | No | No |
| Operating system support | Wide | Wide |
| Typical file size | Large | Small |
| Open standard | Partly open | Partly open |
| Introduced | — | 2004 |
| Developer | Maptech / BSB and later chart vendors | Keyhole, Inc. / Google |
| MIME type | — | application/vnd.google-earth.kmz |
