MarineTraffic – Ship Tracking


Rating: 4.8	Downloads: 5,000,000+
Category: Maps & Navigation	Offer by: MarineTraffic Applications

MarineTraffic – Ship Tracking is a mobile application designed to provide real-time information about global maritime traffic. It allows users to track individual vessels or view traffic patterns in specific sea areas by accessing Automatic Identification System (AIS) data feeds from satellite and terrestrial sources. This app serves mariners, shipping company personnel, port authorities, logistics managers, and maritime enthusiasts who need up-to-the-minute data on vessel movements worldwide.

The primary value of MarineTraffic – Ship Tracking lies in its ability to enhance situational awareness and operational efficiency. Users can monitor fleet movements, track container ships, find specific vessels by name or IMO number, and identify routes and schedules, which is crucial for supply chain management, safety at sea monitoring, and compliance with regulations.

App Features

Global AIS Data Display: The core feature shows a world map overlaid with moving vessel icons representing real-time AIS data. This allows users to get an immediate visual understanding of maritime activity in any region. For example, a logistics manager can instantly see the location and projected arrival time of a container ship at a distant port.
Search and Vessel Details: Users can search for specific vessels using name, MMSI number (Unique Identification number), IMO number, or port calls. Selecting a vessel brings up detailed information including its current position (GPS coordinates), navigation status (underway, at anchor, etc.), dimensions, destination, and port history. This feature is invaluable for quickly finding information about specific ships, aiding both commercial tracking and safety monitoring.
Route Tracking & Historical Playback: MarineTraffic allows users to track a vessel’s movement over time and even playback its entire route history. This shows the path a ship has taken, including past anchorages and port visits. For instance, investigators can reconstruct a vessel’s movements during an incident or analysts can review seasonal shipping patterns for route optimization.
Regional Focus & Port Alerts: Users can select specific geographic regions or ports on the map to concentrate on activity within those boundaries. Some versions offer alert notifications for significant events like a vessel arriving or departing a port within a monitored area. This saves time by filtering out irrelevant traffic and highlighting key events relevant to the user’s interests.
Global Coverage & Varying Detail: The app provides tracking data for thousands of vessels worldwide, though coverage density can vary based on the source of the AIS data and the geographical location. This broad coverage, even if not uniform, is essential for users needing information across international waters, ports, and coastal areas, supporting diverse needs from small boat owners to large shipping conglomerates.
Navigational Tools (Potentially): Depending on the specific app version or platform, features like a nautical chart overlay or route plotting might be included. These advanced functionalities allow users to integrate traffic information with their own navigational planning. Such tools are critical for professional mariners ensuring safe navigation through busy shipping lanes or restricted waters.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

Real-Time Global Coverage: Tracks a vast number of vessels worldwide via AIS data.
Detailed Vessel Information: Access to extensive data points beyond just position.
Intuitive Map Interface: Easy to navigate and understand vessel locations quickly.
Search Functionality: Allows quick lookup of specific ships by various identifiers.

Cons:

Dependence on AIS Signals: Only tracks vessels broadcasting AIS; some smaller boats or those deliberately switched offline are invisible.
Potential for Overload: The sheer volume of data, especially in busy ports, can sometimes make the interface seem cluttered.
Data Refresh Rate: While generally fast, there can be slight delays between actual vessel movement and data updates on the map.
Subscription Tiers: Access to the full database, historical playback, or advanced features might require a paid subscription.

Similar Apps

App Name	Highlights
SeaIntel	This platform provides comprehensive vessel tracking alongside market intelligence on freight rates, port congestion, and news. It’s known for its detailed analytics for professionals.
Marine Insight	Designed for easy-to-use interfaces with powerful search filters. Focuses on vessel schedules, port visibility, and weather integration for logistics planning.
GlobalMarineData	Offers a vessel database with historical tracking data. Often used for insurance, security, or in-depth forensic analysis of past movements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is MarineTraffic – Ship Tracking completely free to use, or are there in-app purchases?

A: A basic level of real-time tracking and vessel data is often available for free. However, more detailed historical data playback, advanced search features, higher refresh rates, and access to premium vessel information typically require a subscription. The specific pricing model can vary by platform.

Q: On which mobile devices can I install the MarineTraffic – Ship Tracking app?

A: The app is generally available for both iOS (iPhone, iPad) and Android devices. Check the app store (App Store for iOS, Google Play Store for Android) for the latest version compatible with your specific device model and operating system version.

Q: How accurate is the information provided by MarineTraffic – Ship Tracking?

A: MarineTraffic relies heavily on AIS data feeds, which are mandated by international regulations for most commercial ships. While AIS data is generally accurate, transmission can occasionally fail or be incorrect, and the data source’s reliability affects accuracy. Delays can occur between data reception and display. For critical navigation, professional-grade equipment may be preferred, but the app provides highly reliable tracking for most standard uses.

Q: Can I use MarineTraffic – Ship Tracking to track my private boat while at anchor?

A: Yes, if your boat’s VHF radio has an AIS transponder (Class A or Class B) actively transmitting its position and data, it should appear on the app along with other vessels. Many newer recreational boats include AIS as standard equipment.

Q: What should I do if I want to track a specific vessel I know the name or IMO number of?

A: Use the search function within the app. You can typically enter the vessel’s name or its IMO number or MMSI code to find its current position, status, and route. Some apps allow searching by company name if the vessel is part of their fleet.