Which regulation requires the installation of an AIS device on my vessel?

The obligation to install an AIS device is defined in Article 26 of the Law on Maritime Safety of Montenegro.

Which category of vessels does this obligation apply to?

All vessels registered for commercial activity (boats, yachts, and ships that transport passengers) and pilot boats under the Montenegrin flag operating within the internal waters and territorial sea of Montenegro must be equipped with an AIS device and maintain it in continuous operation. In accordance with Chapter V of the SOLAS Convention, this obligation also applies to: all passenger ships, regardless of size, and all cargo ships of 300 GT and above engaged in international voyages that call at Montenegrin ports or exercise innocent passage through the territorial sea of Montenegro.

Are fishing vessels required to have an AIS device?

Yes. Under Article 27 of the Law on Maritime Safety, foreign fishing vessels unloading their catch in any Montenegrin port must continuously operate an AIS system.

What equipment is required for AIS installation?

To properly install an AIS device, the following components are needed: AIS device, VHF antenna, Coaxial cable (RG‑8, RG‑8U, RG‑58, or LMR‑400), Two PL‑259 connectors, 3A fuse, and 12V or 24V power supply.

How long does AIS installation take?

Installation of a Class B AIS device typically takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on the vessel type and onboard configuration.

What type of antenna does an AIS device use?

AIS uses a VHF antenna, the same type used by a VHF radio transceiver, but it must be adapted to the frequency spectrum used by AIS.

Can an AIS device be connected to the vessel's existing VHF antenna?

This depends on the AIS model: YES, if your AIS has a built in splitter, such as the EM TRAK B923. NO, if you are using AIS such as EM TRAK B921, as it requires a dedicated AIS antenna.

Is it necessary to provide electrical power for the installation of an AIS device?

Yes. For proper installation of an AIS device, a stable 12V or 24V DC power supply must be available at the installation location, depending on the vessel's configuration.

How long does it take for my AIS signal to appear on Marine Traffic?

A newly installed AIS device typically requires up to 24 hours to be registered and added to the MarineTraffic database.

Why is my AIS not visible on MarineTraffic even after 24 hours?

Common causes include: No AIS Base Station within range — if it is significantly far from your position, your AIS signal will not be received. Red indicator light on the AIS device, which signals an operational fault preventing transmission.

How can I ensure my AIS becomes visible on MarineTraffic?

Try the following steps: Check whether the green indicator light is illuminated (indicating normal operation). Move your vessel closer to the nearest AIS Base Station. Navigate at a speed greater than 2 knots, as AIS transmits more frequently when the vessel is in motion.

What does the red indicator light on my AIS device mean?

A red indicator light signifies an error condition. Possible causes include: power supply issues, poor antenna connection or high VSWR, GPS antenna or signal issues.

Bureau Veritas Approved

AIS Performance Testing and Issuance of Reports Required for Vessel Registration and Technical Inspection in Montenegro

In accordance with the new Maritime Safety of Navigation Law of Montenegro, Manat Marine provides professional AIS equipment testing services and issues official reports required for the registration and technical inspection of vessels subject to this obligation. Ourservices include:

Installation of AIS equipment

Programming of AIS equipment

AIS system performance testing

Issuance of test reports accepted by the Montenegrin maritime administration

The AIS test report issued by Manat Marine represents a mandatory part of the documentation required for:

Vessel registration

Renewal of registration

Technical inspection

Covering all ports and marinas in Montenegro, including Porto Montenegro and Porto Novi, our team of experienced engineers and surveyors is ready to perform all necessary installations, programming, inspections, testing, and documentation preparation in the shortest possible time.

Schedule AIS Test

Official Report

Recognized by Authorities

Document Compliance

Ensures your vessel documentation is complete for registration, with respect to radio equipment and AIS.

Safety Verification

Confirms your vessel is visible to other ships and coastal stations, directly increasing the level of safety at sea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about AIS testing in Montenegro

AIS TESTING & REPORTING.

AIS Performance Testing and Issuance of Reports Required for Vessel Registration and Technical Inspection in Montenegro

The AIS test report issued by Manat Marine represents a mandatory part of the documentation required for:

Official Report

Document Compliance

Safety Verification

Frequently Asked Questions

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