ABSTRACT
An all-encompassing aspect of voyage planning includes interfacing with vessel traffic services, whether the voyage plan includes an international transit throughout multiple VTS zones, or a domestic transit wholly limited to one VTS zone. As originally conceived, these interactive services were designed as a supplemental tool for the vessel Master by introducing real time, relevant information to assist in developing a safer transit.
The organization and function of the vessel traffic service was codified internationally within the IMO and the IALA, and nationally within port states (the USCG for example). This was in order to maintain consistency across all VTS zones for the type and level of information to be minimally provided.
Conditions within the maritime industry have changed dramatically since the inception of VTS, regarding the availability of information. Both in the qualitative technical data available, and the ability to distribute this data. Specifically, VTS was originated prior to the development of broadband satellite communication, AIS/ECDIS capability, and increased vessel automation as seen in current applications.
The intent of this paper is to look at the origin of vessel traffic services and capture the fundamental development that has transpired. Including an example the United States Coast Guard has undertaken with the NTSB to address the current effectiveness of VTS products nationwide. In addition, the paper will review a proposed level of service arisen from technological advances in data sharing. Specifically, describing the potential of “Sea Traffic Management” or “STM” as envisioned at the IMO will attempt to highlight the diverse potential of how VTS systems worldwide are adapting to changing industry conditions.
