Ouzo and AIS

[chuzzlewit]

I'm puzzled by page 30 of the Ouzo report.
" 2.1.6. AIS.
AIS is being carried by an increasing number of yachts, partly to assist in their being made more visible. Had Ouzo carried AIS it would have made no difference as AIS information was not dislayed on the radar of the Pride of Bilbao. This situation should improve as AIS is integrated into more ships' systems in the future."
1. This seems to imply that Ouzo could have transmitted AIS data: if so, where can I buy a transmitter?(I have a receiver)
2. Can it really be true that a big ship which is legally bound to transmit AIS is unable to receive it?

 

[bobgosling]

What you need is a "Class B" AIS transponder. This is specifically designed for small boats. Some manufacturers are gradually starting to supply these. Do a google search for "Class B AIS" and you will see several hits. They are still too expensive for me but I would definately consider one if they brought one out at around the 250 quid mark.

 

[shmoo]

Class B AIS transmitters for voluntary fit are only just becoming available.

Some big ship's systems do not overlay AIS targets on a plotter display but just have a textual list of targets' lat/long RNG BRG CPA TCPA on a separate display. Class B (voluntary fit) AIS signals have (will have) low priority and thus may not always show up.