An Advert for AIS|Forum|Twister Class Association

I have a Raymarine AIS Transponder coupled to a Raymarine Multi Function Display. I'd just like to recommend this to anyone [with quite a deep pocket] who crosses the Channel regularly.

For example: when I was crossing the shipping lanes with a COG of 340 degrees there was a vessel that, in the old days, I'd have watched then altered for...in a direction I didn't want to go and for a time I didn't want to spend. The revised course would also put me nearer to another ship.The AIS confirmed that we were going to be very close [estimating a closest approach of 252 feet] but I stood on a while as she was several miles off. The Bremen Belle [thank you] had a COG of 80 degrees. As I watched her and was about to alter it seemed to me that she had altered to allow me to pass ahead. AIS confirmed her new course at 90 degrees and a half mile plus separation. 

Later visibility dropped to less than a mile when crossing the west bound 'lane'. [I was outside the TSS.] Again I could track all the threats. It would have not been nice without AIS.

I use a splitter so the system transmits from the masthead aerial. I did note how some targets with, I presume, lower aerials [motor boats and vessels with pulpit aerials] came and went as the signal was lost in the swell. 

I'm also sure it's easier on the watch-keepers to; they can see where i am and they do not have a crossing vessel continually changing course.

Obviously, AIS is an aid and no substitute for a good lookout and traditional practices with a hand bearing compass. Also note that some fishing boats don't use it or, for obvious reasons, don't want to advertise exactly where they are fishing.

Peter