May 18, 2005 01:23
ReeferJon Wrote:You need the MMSI number so that you can DSC VHF radio the vessel if you're in a potential collision situation...
I think the AIS info shown in an extra window, which one could always close, shows important infos. The MMSI number is a must to have. As from 2005 on all boats going offshore must haavd DSC VHF.
OTOH as GpsNavX stated here a further info window leaves less place for navigational chart window. But IMHO AIS like Radar Infos are important to have as they can secure one from collisions! then a further info window is more important than more place on the navigational chart window, especially as one needs to react fast enough to avoid collision.
I wished we would have had AIS on our sailing boat 1-2 weeks ago. We only escaped a collision by the last second!
The boat (Netherland Plattbodenboot) going under engine, nearly crunched our boat under sail! Though they did saw us, they didn't change their course, so we had to turn in the last second. Later the other boat excused themself. With AIS I would have seen the near-upcoming collision earlier as I was in front of my iBook check the course to go.