Articles on: Charts & Data

Using the AIS Data Layer in Savvy Navvy

The AIS data layer is available on all Savvy Navvy plans. However, the range of vessels available to you differ based on your plan. Learn more about Savvy Plan Pricing here.

AIS (Automatic Identification System) is a powerful tool for marine navigation that helps improve safety and situational awareness by showing information about other vessels near you. In Savvy Navvy, the Internet AIS chart detail layer provides “Over the Horizon” (OHA) AIS data — meaning you don’t need AIS equipment onboard to see vessel positions, but you do need an internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data).

How AIS in Savvy Navvy Works

Unlike traditional AIS displays connected to onboard AIS hardware, Savvy Navvy uses OHA AIS data sourced from the internet. This allows any Savvy Navvy user to see vessel positions, even if they don’t have their own AIS transponder.

Requires internet connection: If you go offline, a warning appears, and the AIS layer will be disabled.
Updates regularly: Vessel positions refresh frequently, but there may be slight delays.
Positional variance: A shaded “wiggle room” area appears around each vessel’s icon to account for update intervals.
Not all vessels shown: Only vessels broadcasting AIS data are visible.

⚠️ AIS is an aid to navigation, not a replacement for good seamanship. Always use your own judgment, charts, and situational awareness.

Enabling the AIS Layer

Open Savvy Navvy and go to the Layers Menu (diamond-shaped icon on the right side of the screen).
Toggle Internet AIS on.
Vessels will now be displayed on your chart, colour-coded by vessel type. Large ships are shown differently from smaller craft.

Reading Vessel Information

Colour coding – Each vessel type has its own icon colour for quick identification.
Tap a vessel – View speed, course, and last update time.
Swipe up on the info panel – See detailed AIS data including full course and position.
Set waypoints or navigate to a vessel – Useful if you want to track or approach another vessel’s location.
Hide info panel – For a cleaner chart view.

Why Use AIS in Savvy Navvy?

Spot nearby vessels in busy shipping lanes or marinas.
Maintain safe distances, especially in poor visibility.
Get real-time insights into vessel movements, even without onboard AIS hardware.

AIS Range by Plan

Elite & Premium Plans – See vessels up to 50 NM from your chart view or current position.
Other Plans – Limited AIS range from your current position.

Need more help? Contact us at ahoy@savvy-navvy.com or use the in-app chat — we’re happy to guide you through the process.

Updated on: 14/08/2025

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