Introduction
In the fast-paced world of maritime logistics, having access to real-time data is crucial for optimizing operations, ensuring compliance, and enhancing decision-making. The Vessels API provides developers, startups, and enterprise teams with a comprehensive REST API that covers a wide range of maritime data needs. With 17 endpoints dedicated to vessel search, live AIS tracking, fleet operations, port intelligence, and IMO CII emissions scoring, this API is designed to empower users with the information they need to navigate the complexities of maritime trade.
Why Choose Vessels API?
The Vessels API stands out in the maritime data landscape for several reasons:
- 18 REST endpoints covering essential maritime data.
- One API key and one base URL for seamless integration.
- Consistent JSON response structure for easy parsing.
- Global AIS coverage with near real-time refresh rates.
- Scalable solutions suitable for indie developers and enterprise fleets.
- 7-day free trial available for all plans.
Whether you are a developer building a fleet dashboard, a logistics startup optimizing ETAs, or a port operator managing vessel traffic, the Vessels API is your go-to solution for maritime data.
Key Endpoints Overview
Let’s dive into the most relevant endpoints for coastal trade ship tracking, exploring their functionalities, response structures, and practical use cases.
Vessel Search
The GET /vessels/search endpoint allows users to find any vessel by name, IMO, or MMSI. This is particularly useful for logistics companies needing to track specific vessels in real-time.
Request Example:
curl -H "X-API-Key: YOUR_API_KEY" "https://vessels-api.com/api/V1/vessels/search?query=atlantic&flag=Panama"Response Example:
{
"data": {
"vessels": [
{
"imo": "1234567",
"mmsi": "123456789",
"name": "Atlantic Voyager",
"flag": "Panama",
"vessel_type": "Cargo",
"gross_tonnage": 50000,
"deadweight_tonnage": 30000,
"year_built": 2010,
"length_m": 200,
"width_m": 32
}
],
"pagination": {
"current_page": 1,
"per_page": 1,
"total": 1,
"last_page": 1
}
}
}This endpoint is essential for logistics teams to quickly identify vessels and gather key information, such as their type and specifications, which can aid in planning and operational efficiency.
Live Vessel Tracking
The GET /vessels/track endpoint provides live position data, including up to 168 hours of position history, active routes, predicted ETAs, and weather conditions. This is invaluable for fleet managers who need to monitor vessel movements in real-time.
Request Example:
curl -H "X-API-Key: YOUR_API_KEY" "https://vessels-api.com/api/V1/vessels/track?mmsi=258785000&hours=48"Response Example:
{
"data": {
"vessel": {
"imo": "1234567",
"mmsi": "258785000",
"name": "Atlantic Voyager"
},
"current_position": {
"latitude": 34.0522,
"longitude": -118.2437,
"speed_knots": 12,
"course_degrees": 90,
"heading_degrees": 90,
"navigational_status": "Underway",
"timestamp_utc": "2023-10-01T12:00:00Z",
"destination": "Los Angeles",
"eta": "2023-10-02T08:00:00Z"
},
"position_history": [...],
"route": {
"departure_port": "San Francisco",
"departure_time": "2023-10-01T08:00:00Z",
"destination_port": "Los Angeles",
"eta": "2023-10-02T08:00:00Z",
"distance_nm": 300,
"avg_speed_knots": 12
},
"last_port_visits": [...]
}
}This endpoint is crucial for logistics operations, allowing teams to provide accurate ETAs to clients and optimize routing based on real-time data.
Nearby Vessels
The GET /vessels/nearby endpoint returns all vessels within a specified radius of a given latitude and longitude. This is particularly useful for port operators and logistics teams needing to assess vessel traffic in specific areas.
Request Example:
curl -H "X-API-Key: YOUR_API_KEY" "https://vessels-api.com/api/V1/vessels/nearby?latitude=-34.60&longitude=-58.38&radius=30"Response Example:
{
"data": {
"center": {
"latitude": -34.60,
"longitude": -58.38
},
"radius_nm": 30,
"total": 5,
"vessels": [
{
"imo": "1234567",
"mmsi": "258785000",
"name": "Atlantic Voyager",
"ship_type": "Cargo",
"position": {
"latitude": -34.60,
"longitude": -58.38,
"timestamp_utc": "2023-10-01T12:00:00Z"
},
"distance_nm": 10,
"speed_knots": 12,
"course_degrees": 90,
"navigational_status": "Underway"
}
]
}
}This endpoint helps port operators manage vessel traffic effectively, ensuring that they can respond to incoming vessels and optimize berth assignments.
Vessel Analytics
The GET /vessels/analytics endpoint provides aggregated voyage statistics, allowing users to switch between vessel, port, or fleet analytics. This is essential for performance tracking and operational insights.
Request Example:
curl -H "X-API-Key: YOUR_API_KEY" "https://vessels-api.com/api/V1/vessels/analytics?type=vessel&mmsi=258785000&period=7d"Response Example:
{
"data": {
"type": "vessel",
"mmsi": "258785000",
"imo": "1234567",
"name": "Atlantic Voyager",
"period": "7d",
"statistics": {
"total_distance_nm": 500,
"avg_speed_knots": 12,
"max_speed_knots": 15,
"port_calls_count": 3,
"total_time_in_port_hours": 24,
"ports_visited": ["San Francisco", "Los Angeles"]
}
}
}This endpoint is invaluable for fleet managers looking to analyze performance metrics and optimize operational efficiency.
Fleet Operations
The POST /vessels/fleet endpoint allows users to batch request positions, routes, and statistics for multiple vessels in one go. This is particularly useful for large fleets needing consolidated data.
Request Example:
curl -X POST -H "X-API-Key: YOUR_API_KEY" -H "Content-Type: application/json" -d '{"vessels":[{"imo":"9122556"},{"mmsi":"309374000"}],"include_positions":true}' "https://vessels-api.com/api/V1/vessels/fleet"Response Example:
{
"data": {
"fleet": {
"total_vessels": 2,
"vessels_at_sea": 1,
"vessels_in_port": 1
},
"vessels": [
{
"imo": "9122556",
"mmsi": "258785000",
"name": "Atlantic Voyager",
"position": {
"latitude": 34.0522,
"longitude": -118.2437
},
"route": {
"departure_port": "San Francisco",
"destination_port": "Los Angeles"
}
}
]
}
}This endpoint simplifies fleet management by providing a comprehensive overview of vessel statuses, enabling better decision-making and resource allocation.
IMO CII Emissions Scoring
The GET /vessels/green endpoint provides IMO CII emissions scoring, which is essential for ESG reporting and regulatory compliance. This endpoint helps organizations track their environmental impact.
Request Example:
curl -H "X-API-Key: YOUR_API_KEY" "https://vessels-api.com/api/V1/vessels/green?mmsi=258785000&period=30d"Response Example:
{
"data": {
"imo": "1234567",
"mmsi": "258785000",
"name": "Atlantic Voyager",
"period": "30d",
"distance_nm": 500,
"estimated_emissions": {
"co2_tons": 50,
"co2_per_nm": 0.1
},
"cii": {
"score": "B",
"rating": "Good",
"year": 2023,
"regulation_reference": "IMO MEPC.339(76)"
}
}
}This endpoint is crucial for companies aiming to meet sustainability goals and comply with environmental regulations.
Conclusion
The Vessels API is a powerful tool for anyone involved in maritime logistics and operations. With its extensive range of endpoints, real-time data capabilities, and user-friendly structure, it provides the essential information needed to optimize fleet management, enhance operational efficiency, and ensure compliance with environmental standards.
Whether you are developing a fleet dashboard, tracking vessel movements, or analyzing performance metrics, the Vessels API is designed to meet your needs. Try Vessels API for free today and unlock the potential of real-time maritime data.
For more information and to get started, visit Get started with Vessels API.
