• Individual Courses
• AB to Mate Program
• Chief Mate to Master
• State Pilot Programs
• Workboat Academy Programs

Vessel Traffic Service - Vessel Traffic Center (VTS LEVEL I)

Course Description

Attendees are given introduction to specific computer operating systems and in-depth instruction on specific VTS software packages. Additionally, the course provides detailed instruction on the procedures and operations of a Vessel Traffic Service system and the associated Vessel Traffic Service Center. All VTS/VTC training takes place in an interactive blind pilotage shipboard environment. The interactive environment incorporates a functioning Vessel Traffic Service Center, detailed radar images, vessel traffic, local environmental conditions (developed based on customer needs) and radar image topography.

What You Will Learn

• Describe the typical equipment used in a VTS and the importance of new technology employed in a VTS system. 
• Understand the regulations (33 CFR Part 161) and how they are employed to manage vessel traffic. 
• List and describe the job tasks of an effective VTS watchstander, including the management of information, procedures and liability constraints affecting the VTS advisory system.
• Demonstrate in a simulated VTS watch operator station, the procedures and skills of an effective VTS watchstander.

Student who satisfactorily completed a thirty-five hour course of instruction in Vessel Traffic Services, offered by the Maritime Advancement, Training, Education and Safety Program through the Maritime Institute of Technology and Graduate Studies. The United States Coast Guard Office of Vessel Traffic Management certifies this program, which includes formal instruction in the application and use of the U.S. Coast Guard Vessel Traffic Management Mission, the VTS National Regulations (33 CFR Part 161), the Marine Safety Manual Vol. VI “ VTS National Standard Operating Procedures”, VTS Support Functions, Common VTS Equipment, Personal Safety, AIS and the Incident Command System.

“This course may be customized to incorporate  company policies and procedures and / or combined with other training.   It may also be taught  offsite.  For more information on how MITAGS-PMI can develop a “turn-key” training solutions for your organization, please call 1-866-656-5569 or e-mail Admissions@mitags.org. “