Frequently Asked Questions

If you need help, please have a look at the questions below. If you can't find your answer here, please get in touch - we're happy to hear from you.

How do I create my customised map?

Follow these steps to create your map:

1. Click the Start Creating Your Map button. Type a place name, landmark, area or postcode into the search box and select the correct result.
2. The scale defaults to 1:25,000. To change scale, use the Change Mapping Scale button on the left of the screen.
3. To move the map, click and drag inside the coloured map area.
4. When you are happy with your location, click LOCK MAP (top right of the large map). This fixes the selected area while you adjust zoom.
5. Use the + and - buttons to zoom. Tip: keep the map locked while zooming to prevent accidental movement.
6. If you need to adjust the frame edges, unlock the map, reposition the shaded selection, then lock again before zooming.
7. To change orientation (portrait or landscape), use Basic format options.
8. To create long route layouts, use Strip Map Options (2-strip or 3-strip).
9. After confirming layout and selecting Buy, choose folded or flat, then add your cover title, subtitle and notes. You can also upload a logo or cover image using Upload Images Now.

Can I see exactly what my map will look like?

The preview shows the area covered by your map, the centre point and any cover text you have added. It does not show full cartographic detail at print resolution. Your finished map is printed from current Ordnance Survey data at the scale you choose, so the mapping content will match a comparable scale OS map.

How big are Aqua3 maps?

Aqua3 offers multiple sizes from compact A3+ up to large formats (including 130 cm x 100 cm). You can choose portrait or landscape, and you can create 2-strip or 3-strip layouts for long routes. Maps are available folded or flat (flat maps are delivered rolled in a tube).

What are Aqua3 maps made of?

Aqua3 maps use specialist synthetic materials and lamination chosen for outdoor durability. Maps are designed to remain usable with wet hands, repeated folding and hard use in the field.

Are your maps really waterproof?

Nothing is ever 100% waterproof, but Aqua3 maps are designed for real outdoor use. They can be used in rain and snow and will resist damage far better than standard paper maps. Look after your map (see next question) and it will give you years of use.

How should I look after my map?

You don't need a map case. If your map gets wet, open it out when you get home and leave it to dry naturally (not near a direct heat source). If it gets scrunched, smooth it out and refold it once dry.

How do I personalise my map?

Personalise your map by choosing the centre point, scale and format (including portrait/landscape and strip options). You can add a cover title, subtitle and notes. This is useful for route details, contact information and group instructions (for example DofE expeditions).

What kind of extra information can I put on my map?

You can add a cover title and optional subtitle, plus notes on the cover/legend area. Many schools add safety information, meeting points, emergency numbers or supervision instructions.

Can I add my own data to my map?

At the moment, importing your own data as a selectable layer is not available via the website. If you have a specific technical requirement, please get in touch - we may be able to help.

Is the mapping data the latest edition?

Aqua3 site-centred maps are printed to order using the latest digital data supplied by Ordnance Survey. The 1:25,000 and 1:50,000 raster mapping products are refreshed four times a year (March, June, September and December), and Aqua3 uses the most current data available at the time of print.

Can I add latitude and longitude information to my map?

Yes. We can add WGS84 latitude/longitude alongside the National Grid as part of production. This is available on request - please contact us before ordering.

Can I send my own maps or drawings for laminating with the Aqua3 system?

Yes. Please see our Laminating Services for details. You can send flat or folded items up to 950 mm wide.

Can I buy your maps in the shops?

No. Aqua3 maps are available direct from us via this website.

Can I buy Aqua3 maps of countries other than the UK?

Aqua3 maps use Ordnance Survey mapping for Great Britain. If you have your own map or chart for another area, we may be able to laminate it - see Laminating Services.

What payment methods can I use?

Aqua3 offers secure payment by debit/credit card using PayPal. If you are an education organisation or business and would like to set up an account, please contact us for further information.

If you are buying maps for DofE or a youth group and would prefer to be invoiced, please check the Account Holders Only option in the Pay By section of the Checkout page.

Do you offer discounts for multiple orders?

We keep pricing as competitive as possible and include lamination as standard. If you are placing a larger order for a school, event or organisation, please contact us and we will advise the best-value options for your layout and format.

How can I keep up to date on news and product information from Aqua3?

You can find us on Facebook and on Twitter, or you can email and ask to be added to our mailing list. Read more about our privacy policy.

Not found the answer you were looking for? Please get in touch by email or give us a call.