How It Works
Prerequisites
- Vessel must have transmitting AIS with MMSI issued by flag state.
- Vessel must be able to send and receive email at sea. An InReach device is not acceptable. Typically, HF radio with Pactor modem or Iridium Go!
- You must commit to sending a daily report via email when on passage.
Before Departure
- 48 hours prior to departure, the Vessel captain files a FLOAT PLAN with detailed information about vessel, crew and intended voyage.
- Passage Guardian programs MarineTraffic.com to track the vessel using satellite AIS and establishes a weather route for the vessel using PredictWind.com.
- Passage Guardian confirms via email, receipt of float plan and reception of AIS signals from vessel.
On Passage
- Vessel captain sends DAILY REPORT via email. If the daily report is not received, Passage Guardian commences the Missed Check-In Procedure.
- Passage Guardian checks progress using satellite AIS at least daily, and investigates causes of MarineTraffic.com vessel off-course or stopped notifications (at any time).
- Passage Guardian checks weather daily looking out 7 days, and alerts vessel (via email) to any heavy weather ahead.
On Safe Arrival
- Vessel captain closes the FLOAT PLAN by sending email to peter@passageguardian.nz.
Disclaimer
Passage Guardian is a best effort service to monitor the progress of a vessel conducting a coastal or ocean passage.
Passage Guardian is provided free of charge, and offered without any warranty.
For the avoidance of doubt, Passage Guardian does NOT provide;
- Distress, urgency or emergency communication
- Weather forecasts, or weather routing services to vessels
I recommend engaging a professional meteorologist to provide a tailored weather forecast and best departure date. Most routers will also (on request) provide a route and send you updates whilst you are on passage.
Additionally, I recommend a subscription to PredictWind which I consider a "must have" aboard any cruising yacht.