On March 14, 2022, the automated identification system (AIS) was activated onboard the Disney Wish. The Disney Wish’s AIS transceiver is now broadcasting her position allowing us to see her on tracking maps such as MarineTraffic.com.

The Disney Wish has been added to the Disney Cruise Line fleet map on the current ship locations page. As well as, the Disney Wish page.

The automatic identification system (AIS) is an automatic tracking system that uses transceivers on ships and is used by vessel traffic services and assists ports to better control sea traffic. Yes, this is similar to air traffic control in some respects. AIS information supplements marine radar, which continues to be the primary method of collision avoidance for water transport. The following is really good synopsis of AIS by MarineTraffic.com.

AUTOMATIC IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM

Automatic Identification System (AIS) is a system initially intended to help ships avoid collisions, as well as assisting port authorities to better control sea traffic. As from December 2004, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) requires all vessels over 299GT to carry an AIS transponder on board, which transmits their position, speed and course, among some other static information, such as vessel’s name, dimensions and voyage details.

AIS transponders on board vessels include a GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver, which collects position and movement details. It includes also a VHF transmitter, which transmits periodically this information on two VHF channels (frequencies 161.975 MHz and 162.025 MHz – old VHF channels 87 & 88) and make this data available to the public domain. Other vessels or base stations are able to receive this information, process it using special software and display vessels locations on a chart plotter or on a computer.

What is AIS by MarineTraffic.com