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KAP Converter
Batch convert KAP files with the same settings across a whole project, from a handful of layers to an archive of tiles.
How to Convert .kap Files in Bulk
1. Install reaConverter
2. Select KAP Files
3. Start Conversion
Step by step
See It in Action
For quick and effortless KAP file handling on your PC, reaConverter offers powerful conversion tools with batch processing. Best of all, it works entirely offline — ensuring your sensitive data never leaves your computer.
GIS Toolkit
Do more with your GIS data
Need KAP data as something anyone can open? reaConverter renders imagery and elevation grids into standard images and documents without QGIS or ArcGIS, and works through whole folders in one pass.
- Render imagery, elevation grids and scanned charts to TIFF, PNG, JPG or PDF
- Resize, crop and set DPI on the output in the same run
- Bring tiles, scenes and grids from many sources into one consistent format
- Convert incoming survey and field data automatically with Watch Folders
- Script GIS conversions from the command line for pipelines and scheduled jobs
- Keep cadastral, utility and client data on your PC: nothing is uploaded
User reviews
From those who tried it
Average User Rating:Last updated on August 31, 2026
Questions & Answers
KAP files: Frequently Asked Questions
What are KAP files?
KAP (Maptech BSB Nautical Chart) is a raster format in which a text header is followed by the picture of a chart. The header, written in plain text, gives the chart name, the width and height of the image, the map projection and datum, reference points that tie pixels to latitude and longitude, the outline of the chart area, and one or more color palettes for day, dusk, and night viewing. After it comes the image itself, stored as rows of run-length encoded pixels, in which each pixel is not a color but a number pointing into the palette. Long runs of the same color, which are typical of charts, take very little space, and the method is covered by a patent assigned to the U.S. Department of Commerce. Later versions of the format add encryption, and encrypted charts use the .cap extension instead. To convert a KAP file to graphics, a program reads the header, decodes the runs, applies the chosen palette, and builds a picture. It can be saved as PNG, JPEG, or TIFF, and a GeoTIFF keeps the georeferencing. Supported by OpenCPN, Global Mapper, MapInfo, CompeGPS Land, and Chart Navigator Pro.
Can reaConverter open KAP files?
reaConverter fully supports the KAP file format – open, edit, and export KAP files to any other popular file format with ease.
Do I need QGIS or ArcGIS to convert KAP files?
No. reaConverter reads KAP files on its own, so the conversion needs no GIS installation and no licence. It handles whole folders at once, which suits survey archives, tile sets and data deliveries that have to reach people working in other software.
How do I change KAP to another format?
reaConverter is a user-friendly tool for converting KAP files. Once installed on your computer, it allows you to convert all your .kap files at once with just a few clicks. You can even convert KAP files directly from Windows Explorer using the right-click menu — fast and convenient.
Why choose offline conversion with reaConverter?
Keep your sensitive data 100% private with offline processing that never exposes files to cloud risks. Our software meets strict compliance standards (GDPR, HIPAA, CCPA) while handling confidential documents for legal, healthcare and financial sectors.
Can I convert KAP online?
If you only want to convert a few KAP files, you are welcome to try our free online KAP converter.
How can I turn KAP files on my computer to another format?
The best way to convert KAP files on your PC is to get a quality piece of software, such as reaConverter. This software is extremely efficient in managing a wide range of batch files conversions, including conversion from KAP.
How can I automate KAP files conversion?
reaConverter supports all the essential automation features, such as right-click сonversion and Watch Folders, for the most efficient automated file conversion in any software of its kind.
Can I convert KAP files using scripts or the command-line interface?
reaConverter provides full access to all its features from the Windows command-line shell, including the command-line kap converter.
What else can I do with reaConverter?
Convert whole-slide imagesResize picturesConvert DICOM filesCrop photosConvert PDF files
What formats can I convert a KAP file to?
Discover More
Beyond KAP conversion
Convert .kap files in batches of any size, with editing and processing applied along the way. The same tool also handles 800+ other formats, including CAD, medical imaging, and GIS.
