AIS

AIS (Automatic Identification System) is an automated vessel identification and tracking system used at sea. An AIS transponder broadcasts and receives data such as vessel name or MMSI, GPS position, course, speed, heading and navigation status over VHF frequencies, allowing nearby equipped vessels and shore stations to see each other electronically.

For boaters, AIS improves situational awareness, especially at night, in fog, near ports or crossing shipping lanes. It helps assess collision risk, monitor CPA, and identify commercial traffic before it is visible. Displaying AIS targets on a Chartplotter alongside Radar supports safer passage planning and timely course changes.

AIS complements, but never replaces, visual watchkeeping, sound signals and good seamanship. In PredictWind workflows, AIS data can be integrated through onboard NMEA networks and the DataHub for vessel tracking and connectivity, helping crews combine live position information with forecasts, routing and offshore communications.