Top 15 Vessel Tracking Software for the Maritime Industry in 2024

Feeling swamped with endless spreadsheets and struggling to keep up with your fleet? It’s time to now ditch the old methods and embrace modern vessel tracking software. Imagine having all the vital information you need—real-time locations, route optimizations, and fleet performance—instantly accessible. No more frantic calls or outdated data. Vessel tracking tools can transform your fleet management into a well-oiled machine. Ready to navigate smoothly? Dive into our blog and explore the top 15 solutions to make managing your fleet easier than ever!

How should you evaluate any Vessel Tracking Software?

When selecting vessel tracking software, several factors should be considered to ensure you choose the most suitable solution. Here are some key factors to consider:

Accuracy and Reliability: The software should provide accurate and reliable vessel tracking information, including real-time positions, speed, heading, and other relevant data. Look for a software provider with reliable data sources and a track record of delivering accurate information.

Carrier-level integration for better visibility: The platform should integrate multiple shipping lines and third-party cargo lines to improve ETAs and delay statuses. Any platform like GoComet, which uses a mix of AIS and carrier data, can give better insights on ETA.

AI-powered AIS system: Depending solely on real-time data can be problematic when the system needs to be more intelligent to forecast delays that can hamper your supply chain from production planning to last-mile customer delivery. Along with displaying AIS signals in real-time, the platform should also store, crunch and produce business insights in the form of predictive ETAs, identify critical routes and send advanced alerts that can get you prepared for any delays before your shipment sails

However, it is important to remember that Tracking software’s are an investment for long-term growth of your company. Hence, we have compiled all essential questions your Vessel Tracking Software MUST meet to ensure it being worth your time and money,

The 15 Best Vessel Tracking Software options to consider

1. GoComet

GoComet is easily one of the best and most comprehensive vessel tracking software, providing real-time location tracking and monitoring of ships and other vessels worldwide. It is designed to help businesses in the shipping and logistics industry manage their operations efficiently and effectively. GoComet leverages advanced satellite and communication technologies to provide users with up-to-date information on vessel locations, routes, and conditions.

With GoComet, users can easily track their shipments and vessels using the intuitive and user-friendly platform. The software allows users to monitor multiple vessels simultaneously and provides alerts for vessel location or condition changes for instance delays due to Port Congestion. This helps businesses stay informed and make informed decisions about their shipping operations. Additionally, Gocomet offers a range of customization options, allowing companies to tailor the software to their specific needs.

2. MarineTraffic

MarineTraffic is an online platform that provides real-time vessel tracking, marine weather information, and port data. The software offers an intuitive interface and comprehensive fleet management and monitoring tools. The platform utilizes AIS technology to track ships’ movements in real-time. 

3. VesselFinder

With real-time vessel positions, port calls, and navigational aids, VesselFinder is an international AIS vessel tracking service. Fleet management and vessel tracking are two primary uses of this platform by shipping firms and marine security organizations. Users can use various tools for tracking and managing fleets on VesselFinder, which provides real-time vessel positions. Along with current information on vessel movements, such as port calls and routes, VesselFinder offers customers historical data on vessel movements.

4. FleetMon

FleetMon uses AIS technology to track vessels in real-time and give users accurate information about the positions, paths, and other characteristics of the vessels. The platform comes with various tools for managing and monitoring fleets, such as reporting tools, analytics for vessel performance, and route planning tools.

5. VT Explorer

In addition to vessel movements, routes, and other data, the solution offers a wide range of tools and capabilities for managing and monitoring fleets. The historical vessel tracking capabilities of VT Explorer, which enables users to access vessel movements going back up to five years, is one of its essential features.

6. MyShipTracking

MyShipTracking tracks ships in real time using AIS technology, giving users accurate information on vessel whereabouts, routes, and other factors. Route planning tools, analytics for vessel performance, and reporting tools are a few of the capabilities the platform offers for managing and monitoring fleets.

7. ShipNet

A real-time vessel tracking system is one of the solutions that ShipNet provides to businesses, enabling them to follow their vessels’ movements. The software uses AIS technology to track vessels in real-time and offers its users data on vessel positions, routes, and other information.

8. Windward

Windward is a software application that uses satellite data, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning for tracking vessels. Windward’s use of AI and machine learning techniques to evaluate vessel behaviour and spot potential threats or abnormalities is one of its primary characteristics. The software gathers and analyses data on vessel movements from various sources, including historical and real-time AIS data, satellite imaging, and other sources, to offer a complete picture of the marine environment.

9. ExactEarth

ExactEarth specializes in giving the maritime sector access to international Automatic Identification System (AIS) data services. Several capabilities are available in the vessel tracking software from ExactEarth, including real-time vessel tracking, historical data, and predictive analytics. The software’s advanced reporting and analytics features can offer helpful insights into vessel movements, trends, and patterns.

10. Genscape Vesseltracker

Genscape Vesseltracker tracks vessels in real-time from anywhere in the world. It combines Automatic Identification System (AIS) data, satellite photography, and other data sources to deliver precise and current information on vessel movements. The software is used by businesses that must follow vessels throughout several regions because of its extensive coverage.

11. CruiseMapper

CruiseMapper is a comprehensive vessel tracking software that provides real-time information on the locations and movements of over 320 cruise ships across nearly 30 different cruise lines. The software combines AIS data, satellite imagery, and other sources to deliver precise details on vessel activities, catering to a range of stakeholders, including travel agencies, cruise lines, and individual travelers. CruiseMapper offers detailed itinerary information, ship specifications, and multi-platform accessibility.

12. Shiplocation

Shiplocation offers comprehensive real-time tracking for container ships and cargo. The platform provides users with detailed information on the location and status of their shipments via an interactive map. It supports tracking for various container lines and ships, allowing users to monitor their cargo efficiently and ensure transparency in their logistics operations.

13. AllTrack

AllTrack provides a comprehensive container tracking solution that allows users to monitor the location and status of their containers in real-time. The platform supports tracking for ISO containers, sea cargo, and vessels, offering features like live tracking on an interactive map, container number validation, and check digit calculation. Users can track containers across various shipping lines directly through the website, ensuring efficient and transparent logistics management.

14. Datalastic

Datalastic offers solutions through advanced AIS (Automatic Identification System) data technology. This software provides real-time tracking of maritime vessels, including detailed information on vessel types, movements, and locations. Users can filter and search for specific types of vessels, track their routes, and monitor port activity with high precision. Datalastic’s API enables the tracking of all vessels within a defined area, providing crucial data for businesses to make informed decisions and minimize potential losses due to unforeseen maritime events​.

15. BalticShipping

BalticShipping enables users to monitor the movements and status of various maritime vessels in real-time. Features include detailed vessel information, such as type, year of build, operating status, gross tonnage, and engine specifications. Users can search for vessels by name or IMO number and access up-to-date information on their current location and voyage history. The interactive interface supports multiple container lines and ships, making it a valuable tool for logistics and shipping management.

Software Overview

Software	Best For	Pros and Cons
GoComet	Optimizing Supply Chain Operations	Pros: Cost-effective, Cons: None
MarineTraffic	Comprehensive Global Coverage	Pros: Wide range of features, Cons: Premium features are costly
VesselFinder	Real-Time Vessel Tracking	Pros: Free version available, Cons: Limited features in free version
FleetMon	Advanced Analytics	Pros: Detailed analytics, Cons: Interface can be complex
VT Explorer	Professional Vessel Tracking	Pros: Professional-grade tracking, Cons: Subscription required
MyShipTracking	Historical Data Analysis	Pros: Historical data, Cons: Requires subscription for full features
ShipNet	Fleet Management Solutions	Pros: Comprehensive fleet management, Cons: High cost
Windward	Predictive Intelligence	Pros: Predictive insights, Cons: Expensive
ExactEarth	Accurate Satellite AIS Data	Pros: Accurate and reliable, Cons: Costly for advanced features
Genscape Vesseltracker	Detailed Vessel Information	Pros: Extensive vessel data, Cons: Can be expensive
CruiseMapper	Tracking Cruise Ships	Pros: Detailed information on cruise ships, Cons: Limited to Cruise ships
ShipLocation	Managing Multi-Container Shipments	Pros: Multiple Container Lines Supported, Cons: Limited Features
AllTrack	Ensuring Accuracy of Container ID	Pros: Container Number Validation, Cons: Limited Advanced Featured
DataLastic	Analyzing Vessel Data for Research	Pros: Advanced AIS data, Cons: No G2 & Capterra Ratings
BalticShipping	Comprehensive fleet management	Pros: Supports multiple container lines, Cons: Limited to vessels and Maritime containers

These software solutions provide a range of features from real-time tracking and monitoring to comprehensive fleet management and analytics. Whether you are managing a small fleet or overseeing a large maritime operation, these tools can help you optimize your processes and ensure the smooth running of your vessels.

Conclusion 

Remember, choosing the right vessel tracking software is no small feat. You must evaluate your business needs, budget, ease of use, customer service, scalability and more! If you’re ready to take the plunge and invest in a good vessel tracking software, do your research, read reviews, and don’t be afraid to ask questions to your vendors. After all, this tool can help you navigate the turbulent waters of the shipping industry with ease and confidence.

Looking for reliable, easy-to-use software? Check out GoComet’s vessel tracking solutions for real-time data, precision, and unbeatable support. Let GoComet help you take control of your fleet with ease!

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