Do you want to follow live vessel traffic and see the routes of container ships and other large vessels on the sea?
It doesn’t require any equipment other than a smartphone or tablet where you can install apps. There are several vessel traffic apps that can be downloaded for free, so you can follow live traffic – or with a small delay. It is of course safer to mount proper AIS equipment on your boat, as you will then not be dependent on internet coverage. But for coastal sailing, an AIS app is not a problem.
What is AIS vessel traffic?
AIS stands for Automatic Identification System and is a VHF-based system. AIS shows vessel positions and provides access to additional data such as the vessel’s name and MMSI – number (for calls via VHF). Ships over 300 gross tons, passenger ships, and fishing vessels over 15 meters must have an AIS transmitter installed, but smaller boats can also choose to mount a transmitter and make it possible for everyone to see where they are located in the world. See more on the Danish Maritime Authority’s website about AIS.
Track boat Vessel traffic apps
There are a number of maritime apps that show AIS live. You can search for them via Google Play and Apple App Store. In addition to showing the vessel’s position and route, you can see information about the vessel’s data – such as vessel size, home port, name, owner, which port the vessel is heading to, etc.
Names of vessel traffic apps:
- Findship
- Ship radar & Ship tracker
- Marine Traffic
- Vessel Finder (link to download app at the bottom)
- Boat Finder
- Boat Watch
You can also choose to search for “ais live” or “maritime traffic” to see available apps.
Vessel traffic on a computer
If you sail around with a computer on board, you can also use websites like Marinetraffic.com. Here you can see live vessel traffic all over the world.
Send your own AIS position via the mobile network: mAIS
It is possible to share your own position via an app instead of installing expensive equipment and an AIS transmitter on your boat. The system is not as stable, but can be used for example to share your position with family and friends at home. As for collision safety, it is not recommended, unless the alternative is not to send a signal.
Download mAIS from Marine Traffic for Android phones on Google Play here: mAIS
Boat Beacon both shows and sends mobile AIS, but costs a little:
Download Boat Beacon for Android (paid app) here: Google Play
Download Boat Beacon for iPhone/IPad here: App Store
AIS in all sorts of ways
AIS is now built into GPS systems and can therefore be easily integrated into whatever navigation equipment you may use. You can buy yourself poor gadgets, but for most leisure sailors, an app will be enough. Free apps are typically funded by advertising and vessel traffic AIS is no exception.