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 delivers global maritime vessel tracking data powered by AIS. With 17 endpoints covering vessel search, live tracking, fleet operations, port intelligence, and IMO CII emissions scoring, the Vessels API is designed to meet the diverse needs of the maritime industry.
Why Choose Vessels API?
The Vessels API stands out in the maritime data landscape for several reasons:
- 18 REST endpoints that cover a wide range of functionalities, including vessel search, live tracking, fleet operations, port intelligence, and emissions scoring.
- One API key and a single base URL simplify the authentication process, eliminating the need for OAuth or per-endpoint authentication differences.
- Consistent JSON envelope on every response, ensuring a uniform structure:
{status, success, message, data}. - Global AIS coverage with near real-time refresh rates, providing timely and accurate data.
- A 7-day free trial on all plans, allowing users to explore the API's capabilities before committing.
- Targeted towards developers, logistics startups, fleet managers, port operators, and ESG/compliance teams.
Key Features and Endpoints
The Vessels API offers a rich set of endpoints that cater to various maritime data needs. Below, we will explore the most relevant endpoints for vessel tracking and analytics.
Vessel Intelligence
1. Search for Vessels
The GET /vessels/search endpoint allows users to find any vessel by name, IMO, or MMSI. Optional filters such as ship type, flag, and dimensions can refine the search.
cURL 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": 250,
"width_m": 40
}
],
"pagination": {
"current_page": 1,
"per_page": 1,
"total": 1,
"last_page": 1
}
}
}This endpoint is essential for logistics teams needing to quickly identify vessels for tracking or operational planning.
2. 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.
cURL 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": "2587850",
"mmsi": "258785000",
"name": "Vessel Name"
},
"current_position": {
"latitude": 34.56,
"longitude": -58.38,
"speed_knots": 12,
"course_degrees": 90,
"heading_degrees": 90,
"navigational_status": "Underway",
"timestamp_utc": "2023-10-01T12:00:00Z",
"destination": "Port of Destination",
"eta": "2023-10-02T12:00:00Z"
},
"position_history": [...],
"route": {
"departure_port": "Port of Departure",
"departure_time": "2023-10-01T10:00:00Z",
"destination_port": "Port of Destination",
"eta": "2023-10-02T12:00:00Z",
"distance_nm": 100,
"avg_speed_knots": 12
},
"last_port_visits": [...]
}
}This endpoint is invaluable for fleet managers who need to monitor vessel movements in real-time, ensuring timely arrivals and efficient operations.
3. Nearby Vessels
The GET /vessels/nearby endpoint retrieves all vessels within a specified radius of a given latitude and longitude.
cURL 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": "123456789",
"name": "Nearby Vessel",
"ship_type": "Cargo",
"position": {
"latitude": -34.61,
"longitude": -58.39,
"timestamp_utc": "2023-10-01T12:00:00Z"
},
"distance_nm": 1.5,
"speed_knots": 10,
"course_degrees": 180,
"navigational_status": "At Anchor"
}
]
}
}This feature is particularly useful for port operators and logistics teams looking to assess vessel traffic in specific areas.
Fleet Operations
4. Batch Vessel Data
The POST /vessels/fleet endpoint allows users to retrieve batch positions, routes, and statistics for multiple vessels in a single request.
cURL 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": "309374000",
"name": "Fleet Vessel",
"position": {
"latitude": 34.56,
"longitude": -58.38
},
"route": {
"departure_port": "Port A",
"destination_port": "Port B"
}
}
]
}
}This endpoint is essential for fleet managers who need to monitor multiple vessels simultaneously, enhancing operational efficiency.
Port Intelligence
5. Port Congestion Data
The GET /ports/congestion endpoint provides real-time congestion snapshots and wait-time statistics for a specified port.
cURL Example:
curl -H "X-API-Key: YOUR_API_KEY" "https://vessels-api.com/api/V1/ports/congestion?port_id=ARBUE&period=7d"Response Example:
{
"data": {
"port_id": "ARBUE",
"port_name": "Port of Buenos Aires",
"period": "7d",
"snapshot": {
"vessels_in_anchorage": 5,
"vessels_at_berth": 3
},
"statistics": {
"avg_wait_time_hours_last_7d": 2,
"max_wait_time_hours_last_7d": 5,
"avg_berth_time_hours_last_7d": 3,
"port_calls_count": 50
}
}
}This endpoint is crucial for port operators and logistics teams to manage vessel arrivals and optimize berth assignments.
Environmental Compliance
6. IMO CII Emissions Scoring
The GET /vessels/green endpoint provides IMO CII emissions scoring for vessels, which is essential for ESG reporting and regulatory compliance.
cURL 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": "2587850",
"mmsi": "258785000",
"name": "Vessel Name",
"period": "30d",
"distance_nm": 1000,
"estimated_emissions": {
"co2_tons": 50,
"co2_per_nm": 0.05
},
"cii": {
"score": "B",
"rating": "Good",
"year": 2023,
"regulation_reference": "MEPC.339(76)"
}
}
}This endpoint is vital for compliance teams needing to report on emissions and ensure adherence to environmental regulations.
Conclusion
The Vessels API is a powerful tool for anyone involved in maritime logistics, offering a comprehensive suite of endpoints that provide real-time data and analytics. From tracking vessels to managing fleets and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations, the Vessels API simplifies complex maritime operations.
Whether you are a developer looking to integrate maritime data into your applications or a fleet manager seeking to optimize operations, the Vessels API has the tools you need. Try Vessels API for free and discover how it can transform your maritime data experience.
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