A Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) is a service implemented by the United States Coast Guard designed to improve the safety and efficiency of vessel traffic and to protect the environment. The VTS has the capability to interact with marine traffic and to respond to traffic situations developing in the VTS Area. They utilize a variety of sensors and tactics aimed at preventing collisions, rammings, and groundings.  They also endeavor to facilitate vessel movements and enhance transportation system efficiency.

Participating vessels provide transit plans (called a Sailing Plan Report) to the Vessel Traffic Center (VTC). VTS monitors vessel movements using VHF communication, Automatic Identification System (AIS), radar and digital camera technologies, ensuring the good order and predictability of vessel traffic.
 
The Coast Guard operates 12 Vessel Traffic Centers (VTC): Prince William Sound, Puget Sound, Valdez, Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles/Long Beach, Houston-Galveston, Berwick Bay, Louisville, Saint Mary's River, Port Arthur, Tampa, and New York.

CLICK HERE to visit the VTS Locations page with a clickable map that will display each VTS operating area description and links to user manuals & homepages (if available). If you're looking for a quick reference guide, please see our 'VTS Radio Procedures'.

Note: VTS Louisville is only operational during high water.