The following is the text of a news release from the U.S. Coast Guard:
(WASHINGTON) — The U.S. Coast Guard Navigation Center on Tuesday announced a voluntary online service that enables mariners to verify compliance with automatic identification system (AIS) carriage requirements.
The Vessel Identification Verification Service (VIVS) is a new Web-based, self-help service that allows ship agents, owners and operators to search their respective vessel or fleets to determine if they are in compliance with static automatic identification system data mandates.
Through VIVS, users can search by vessel name and call sign, vessel type, a maritime mobile service identity number, and vessel length and beam.
VIVS is accessed at the following link: https://www.navcen.uscg.gov/avs.
"This effort has the potential to significantly increase safety levels on U.S. navigable waterways with only a modest investment necessary to coordinate the wealth of information that is available," said Lt. Cmdr. Marlon L. Heron from the Navigation Center's E-Tracking Branch.
Automatic identification systems are required on most commercial vessels traveling through U.S. navigable waterways. AIS is a navigation safety communications system that reduces the risk of collisions while enhancing mariner situational awareness.
The Coast Guard encourages all mariners to use AIS to gain access to the ever-increasing amount of marine safety information available through AIS transmissions.