What is the purpose of vessel traffic services (VTS)?

The primary purpose of vessel traffic services (VTS) is to provide information to vessels that ensures safe navigation and effective traffic management within busy or congested waterways. VTS operates similarly to air traffic control for ships, helping to prevent collisions, groundings, and other maritime accidents by facilitating communication between vessels, monitoring traffic flows, and providing navigational assistance.

This service is particularly important in areas where shipping traffic is dense, such as harbors, straits, and other critical maritime routes. VTS offers essential services such as real-time information on navigation hazards, weather conditions, and vessel movements, which together contribute to the overall safety and efficiency of maritime transportation.

The other options do not align with the core functions of VTS. Recreational activities for crew, managing shipping inventory, and monitoring crew health and performance are not part of the services provided by VTS. Instead, VTS focuses exclusively on enhancing navigation safety and effective traffic management in maritime environments.