Vessel Traffic Services & Port Information

VTS is an important tool in contributing to the safety of life at sea, safety of navigation and protection of  the marine environment. VTS is made up of one or more of three services; Information, Navigational Assistance and Traffic Organisation.

Port Information Service is where VTS is considered excessive, but there is still a need to disseminate information to those using the port. This is not a lower standard or poorer service, it just means that VTS is not provided.

Please use the following links to find further information on the requirements anddifferences between VTS and Port Information:

IMO Guidelines for VTS - www.imo.org

VTS and Port Information in the UK - MGN 238

VTS and Port Information Responsibilities of Competent Authority, Statutory Harbour Authorities and VTS Authorities - MGN 239

Assessment of need for VTS or Port Information - MGN 240

Training Standards for VTS Operators - MGN 318.

Please use this link to go to UK VTS & Port Information Service Questionnaire