What is a vessel tracking system?

A vessel tracking system, or automatic identification system, is a location tracking system for boats and other maritime vessels, and it is used for safety and business purposes. The International Maritime Organization requires most large cargo ships and all passenger ships to be equipped with such systems.

Vessel tracking systems transmit signals to other ships in the area and to coastal entities to help avoid collisions and assist with heavy traffic when many ships are waiting to move through a small area. These systems can also help when ships are in distress or need to be tracked by a large business moving cargo and needing to adjust shipments based on changing inventory needs.