What Is AIS?
Automatic Identification System (AIS) is an IMO-mandated international standard requiring most commercial vessels to continuously and automatically broadcast their identity, position, speed, heading, destination, and vessel type via VHF radio every few seconds, without any crew action.
Under SOLAS regulations, AIS is compulsory on all commercial vessels over 300 gross tons, all passenger vessels regardless of size, and most inland towboats and barges, meaning the vessels that matter most to port operators, terminal managers, and marine businesses are almost universally transmitting right now.
Those signals are picked up by shore-based receivers within a 20–40 nautical mile range and fed into platforms like Carga’s ShipTracks, turning raw radio data into real-time maritime intelligence. While satellite AIS can fill gaps offshore, its update intervals of 5 to 30+ minutes make it unsuitable for the real-time port and terminal operations that demand second-by-second vessel visibility.
The Station Kit includes:
AIS Receiver
Comar R400N: dual-channel, industry-grade, Ethernet output; decodes Class A, Class B, SART, AtoN, and all AIS message types
VHF Antenna
Comar AV300: commercial-grade fibreglass construction (156–162 MHz), GMDSS-suitable, mounts on horizontal or vertical surfaces
Cabling & Mounting Hardware
Site Requirements
- Ideal Hosts include:
- Port authorities and harbormaster offices
- Coastal businesses (fuel docks, shipyards, towboat operators)
- Lighthouses, lookout towers, offshore platforms
- Universities and research institutions near the water
- Technical requirements:
- Within approximately 10 km of the coast, or elevated with clear water sightlines
- Unobstructed line of sight to the water (no hills or large buildings blocking the VHF horizon)
- Stable power supply (standard 110-watt outlet)
- Reliable internet connection (wired Ethernet preferred; Wi-Fi acceptable)
- Ability to mount an outdoor antenna (rooftop, mast, or wall)
Carga Network Partner Benefits
- Free Access to Carga’s Platform:
- Full ShipTracks access: real-time vessel tracking, custom fleet views, AIS data for vessels in your area
- Access to PortVision 360 features relevant to your operation
- Vessel arrival/departure notifications
- Historical track data and reporting
- Operational Value:
- See every vessel approaching your marina, dock, or port in real time
- Enhance your own safety and situational awareness
- Demonstrate maritime tech leadership in your community
- Recognition & Support:
- Listed as a Carga Network Partner (logo/map placement — optional)
- Direct line to Carga technical support
- Carga covers equipment and setup costs for qualifying sites
The Process
Frequently Asked Questions
Will this interfere with our own radio gear?
No. The device uses a passive antenna splitter and only sends outbound AIS signals over the internet.
How much energy/data does it use?
Less than a modem, about 5–10 watts, and a few megabytes per day of outbound traffic.
What if we don’t have an existing VHF antenna?
We can ship one. Ideally, we mount it as high as possible (roof or mast). If that’s not feasible, we’ll work with you to find a practical location. A simple wall bracket or pole mount usually suffices.
Can we try the platform before deciding?
Yes. We can set you up with a 14-day free trial so your team can explore the ShipTracks, or PortVision 360 system before committing to host.
Can this be installed on a leased property?
Often yes, especially if you already have internet access and an office window or roof access.
Who handles the installation?
We ship all hardware ready to plug-and-play, with remote support to walk your team through installation. If needed, we can also coordinate with local contractors.
Is this system secure?
Absolutely. The receiver only sends AIS data out to our infrastructure. It does not access or interact with anyinternal systems or store sensitive data.