Vessel Traffic Services (VTS)
The VTS Traffic Image is collected and further compiled by means of advanced sensors such as Radar, AIS, Direction Finding, CCTV and VHF or other co-operative systems and services.
A modern VTS integrates all of the information and send it to a single operator working environment for ease of use. A VTS should always have a comprehensive ‘traffic image’ which means that all factors influencing the traffic as well as information about all participating vessels and their intentions should be readily available.
Three forms of data dissemination are possible:
Information Service
An information service is a service to ensure that essential information becomes available in time for on-board navigational decision-making.
The information service is provided by broadcasting information at fixed times and intervals or when deemed necessary by the VTS or at the request of a vessel, and may include for example reports on the position, identity and intentions of other traffic; waterway conditions; weather; hazards; or any other factors that may influence the vessel's transit.
Traffic Organization Service
A traffic organization service is a service to prevent the development of dangerous maritime traffic situations and to provide for the safe and efficient movement of vessel traffic within the VTS area.
The traffic organization service concerns the operational management of traffic and the forward planning of vessel movements to prevent congestion and dangerous situations, and is particularly relevant in times of high traffic density or when the movement of special transports may affect the flow of other traffic. The service may also include establishing and operating a system of traffic clearances or VTS sailing plans or both in relation to priority of movements, allocation of space, mandatory reporting of movements in the VTS area, routes to be followed, speed limits to be observed or other appropriate measures which are considered necessary by the VTS authority.
Navigational Assistance Service
A navigational assistance service is a service to assist on-board navigational decision-making and to monitor its effects. The navigational assistance service is especially important in difficult navigational or meteorological circumstances or in case of defects or deficiencies. This service is normally rendered at the request of a vessel or by the VTS when deemed necessary.