Vessel Tracking Device News

The proven RockFLEET global tracking and messaging system, manufactured by UK-based Iridium satcom specialist Rock Seven, has been selected as one of four approved devices in a mandated scheme to install a Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) to all commercial fishing boats in Queensland, Australia.Under the terms of the scheme, all commercial fishing and charter boats will require a vessel tracking device to be fitted and operational by 2020. Net, crab and line boats, meanwhile, will need to have a VMS in place from January 1, 2019.

Captain John C. Timmel, president and executive director of the American Victory Mariners Memorial & Museum Ship and harbor pilot with the Tampa Bay Pilots Association, has been named "International Maritime Person of the Year" by the Propeller Club of the United States. "It is an honor to receive such a prestigious award from my peers that acknowledges not only my efforts, but also the efforts of many," said Timmel. Timmel spent many years leading the development efforts in Tampa’s maritime technology. Advisory Council, Timmel helped create the carry-on portable pilot, a computerized, real-time, vessel tracking device, which several other international ports now use. This device allows mariners to track other vessels in the waterways, helping prevent shipping collisions.