What type of maps were initially prepared by the Royal Navy regarding the Cayman Islands?

The type of maps initially prepared by the Royal Navy for the Cayman Islands were Nautical Charts. Nautical charts are specifically designed for marine navigation and show a variety of information essential for safe passage at sea. They indicate depths, tides, and navigational hazards, making them crucial for ships navigating coastal waters and nearby islands.

The Royal Navy’s focus on nautical charts stems from the importance of maritime activity in the region, particularly during the period when the islands were primarily used for navigation, trade, and military purposes. These charts would have guided sailors and ships in understanding the seas around the islands, ensuring the safety of maritime operations.

In contrast, while survey maps provide detailed topographical information about the land and are essential for various forms of land management and planning, they were not the main focus of the Royal Navy's early cartographic efforts. Political maps detail boundaries and governance but were not relevant in the Cayman Islands' context during early exploration phases.