AIS For Your Smart Device (Boat Beacon)

M Prod

Well-Known Member
Oct 6, 2017
1,438
North Vancouver, BC
Boat Info
2005 Sundancer 340
Zodiac Cadet w/FCT console Yamaha F20
Kohler 5KW Genny
Engines
8.1 Horizons /V Drives
I came across this today and was curious if anyone had any experience with this, or has used something similar. It’s an app that (apparently) enables you to track vessels with AIS, as well as broadcasts your boat’s position through AIS. I’m sure it’s not perfect, but it might be worth a try for the price. It looks and sounds pretty nifty.

https://pocketmariner.com/mobile-apps/boatbeacon/
 
It doesn't look like it's actually directly communicating with AIS but rather accessing that data via the internet?

I think you could get the same data from a free website using the browser on your phone, sans the transmitting part (which seems interesting).

https://www.vesselfinder.com/
 
The apps like Boat Beacon do get their input from the internet and specifically BoatBeacon does have transmit capabilities. My personal experience is that the feed is not as good as what you'd get on a dedicated AIS device. And watch the transmit function because it will continuously transmit unless you turn it off - think - your boat name on a highway going 70. A friend of mine always forgets to turn his off.
 
Yes, it does not look like it directly broadcasts AIS rather it shares AIS data with other online sites (I may be mistaken). This would negate it functionality with boats outfitted with true AIS receivers.

-Kevin
 
Yes, it does not look like it directly broadcasts AIS rather it shares AIS data with other online sites (I may be mistaken). This would negate it functionality with boats outfitted with true AIS receivers.

-Kevin
Yup - kinda misleading; other boats receiving AIS will not see you and what your smart phone is "transmitting"....
Interesting APP however; that is if you have an unlimited data plan and within cell range.
 

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