Vessel Traffic Services (VTS)
Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) is a shore-based system, run by a port or maritime authority, that monitors and manages ship movements in a port approach, harbour or busy waterway — effectively air-traffic control for ships. Using radar, AIS, radio and cameras, VTS operators build a real-time picture of traffic and communicate with ships to keep movements safe and orderly.
Depending on its authority, a VTS provides information (traffic and conditions), navigational assistance, and traffic organisation — sequencing arrivals and departures, warning of hazards, and helping prevent collisions and groundings in congested or confined waters. It works closely with the harbour master and pilots. By coordinating traffic, VTS improves safety, protects the environment and helps ships move efficiently through the busiest choke points, making it a key piece of modern port operations.
Where many ships converge in narrow waters, VTS is what stops collisions and groundings — the shore-based eyes and coordination that keep traffic safe and moving. It underpins port safety and efficiency at exactly the points where the risk is highest, working hand in hand with pilots and the harbour master.
What does VTS do?
Monitors ship traffic with radar and AIS and communicates with vessels to provide information, navigational assistance and traffic organisation.
Is VTS like air traffic control?
In concept yes — it coordinates ship movements in busy waters, though ships remain under their master's command.