A chart of the northern part of the Bay of Bengal : between Point Palmiras and the Aracan shore

Princeton University Library, digital maps and geospatial data

A Chart of the Northern Part of the Bay of Bengal: Between Point Palmiras and the Aracan Shore

This nautical chart, published in 1794 by the London firm Laurie & Whittle, maps the stretch of coastline between Point Palmiras and the Arakan shore. 

It is based primarily on surveys conducted by Bartholomew Plaisted and John Ritchie, with later updates by Captain George Farmer, Captain Augustus Savage, and Benjamin Lacam, and includes nautical observations by Captain John Hicks. 

The chart is notable for its detailed hydrographic information: soundings, tidal data (high and low tides), directional arrows showing flood tides, and distinctions in seabed types (such as hard or soft ground) are meticulously recorded. 

It also features coastal profiles (views of the land as seen from sea) and describes shore characteristics visible from certain bearings—such as the reddish sand near landmarks like local pagodas. 

This chart represents an intersection of maritime science, colonial ambition, and navigational necessity. It would have been of significant value to seafarers entering the Ganges-Brahmaputra delta region, where shifting channels, sandbanks, and complex tides made accurate charts essential for safe passage.

The map is accompanied by two interesting books Appendix to Capt. Ritchie's Surveys of the Bay of Bengal and Instructions for sailing in the Northern part of the Bay of Bengal- Part 1. Survey of the Coast from Point Palmiras to the Braces; of the outlets of the Ganges, and of the interjacent Rivers from Hughly River to Roymangul; by Captain Ritchie.

1772: Chart of Northern part of The Bay of Bengal: Laid down chiefly from the Surveys made by Bartholomew Plaisted and John Ritchie ; publ. by Alexander Dalrymple ; graduated & engrav'd by B. Henry ; the writing engrav'd by W. Whitchurch. Grave par G. D.-la-Haye. (to accompany) Neptune Oriental. De d'Apres.

1 fathom equals 1.8 meter