How It Works

Passage Monitoring is a global free-of-charge service that monitors the progress of recreational vessels conducting ocean passages.

I use a range of tools, including satellite AIS, trackers, and email / HF radio reporting, to keep a constant watch on yachts that have filed a float plan prior to departure.

Whilst available to all yachts, Passage Monitoring is especially suited to short handed and solo sailors, in particular circumnavigators.

Check List

  • You must complete a float plan using my prescribed form at least 24 hours and no more than 72 hours prior to departure.

  • Vessel must be able to send and receive plain text email at sea without any character limits.

  • Vessel must have transmitting AIS with MMSI issued by flag state.

  • Vessel must have an approved satellite tracker - Garmin InReach, Iridium Go!, Iridium Go! Exec + PredictWind Datahub, Starlink + PredictWind Datahub, YB3, or Zoleo.

  • If using Starlink, service plan must include Mobile Priority data.

  • Captain must commit to sending a daily welfare report containing all prescribed data whilst on passage.

  • 24 hours prior to departure, captain files a float plan containing detailed information about vessel, crew and intended voyage.
  • Passage Guardian checks AIS and satellite tracker and configures notifications for vessel stopped, and sailing in high wind.
  • Passage Guardian confirms via email, receipt of float plan and provides an HF radio watch schedule (if available).
  • Please note that if you do not meet ALL of the prerequisties above, your request for passage monitoring may be rejected.
  • Vessel sends a Daily Welfare Report. If not received, Passage Guardian commences the Missed Check-In procedure.
  • Passage Guardian checks progress using AIS and/or satellite tracker at least daily, and investigates causes of off-course or stopped notifications (at any time).
  • Passage Guardian sends via email daily WMO weather forecasts for the METAREA vessel is transiting. This feature may be declined by vessel if not required.
Float Plan Form
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