This directory tracks 112,000+ vessels worldwide using the Automatic Identification System (AIS) — the transponder-based tracking system mandated by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) under SOLAS Chapter V for all international voyaging ships over 300 gross tonnage and all passenger vessels regardless of size. AIS transponders broadcast vessel identity, position, course, speed, heading, and navigation status at intervals ranging from every 2 seconds (for fast-moving ships) to every 3 minutes (for vessels at anchor).
Each vessel record includes its MMSI (Maritime Mobile Service Identity — a 9-digit ITU-assigned radio identifier), IMO number (a permanent 7-digit ship identification number that stays with the vessel for its entire lifecycle), vessel name, type classification based on AIS type codes, flag state (country of registration), and real-time position data. Individual vessel pages provide additional detail including current weather at the ship's position, voyage progress between departure and destination ports, vessel dimensions, draught, and navigation status.
Vessels are classified into eight categories: cargo, tanker, passenger, fishing, tug/pilot, high-speed craft, yacht, and military/special. Use the type filter pills in the header to narrow the list, or search by vessel name, MMSI, or IMO number. You can also browse the fleet by flag state to see all vessels registered under a specific country.
The directory is sorted by vessel name by default. Click any column header to re-sort by country, type, or MMSI. The table paginates at 100 vessels per page, and each page has its own URL so the whole fleet is browsable and linkable. For real-time vessel positions on an interactive map, visit the live vessel tracking map.
AIS position data updates in near real-time via terrestrial and satellite receivers. Vessel particulars sourced from the ITU Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) database and IMO Ship Identification Number scheme. Refreshed at each site deployment.