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Set up a WorldTides key (BYOK)

NauticCalc on iPhone — matching the topic of this article.

NauticCalc app screenshot

When you need a WorldTides key

If offline tides do not cover your area (e.g. many North Sea / Mediterranean ports), use live tides via WorldTides — with your own API key (BYOK).

Overview: Offline vs live tides.

Step 1: WorldTides account

  1. Register on the WorldTides website
  2. Create an API key (dashboard)
  3. Check quota/cost with the provider — NauticCalc does not sell a tides subscription

Step 2: Store the key safely

  • Copy the key and do not share it in chats or public repos
  • If lost: create a new key with the provider

Step 3: Enter in NauticCalc

  1. Open the app → Settings (tides / API)
  2. Paste the WorldTides API key
  3. Save — the key stays in the iOS keychain, not on NauticCalc servers

Step 4: Test a station

  1. Choose harbour/area in Tides
  2. Compare HW/LW and windows with official tables or port info
  3. If off: check station or time zone

Without a key

Core calculators, logbook and offline tides (where stations exist) still work — no forced key.

Read next: Reading tides · Tides calculator