Maritime Systems has released a new inshore vessel monitoring system (I-VMS) in response to new regulation coming in next year requiring all English-registered fishing vessels under 12 metres to be fitted with such a device.
Unlike previous VMS schemes, the skipper or owner now has freedom to choose which Marine Management Organisation (MMO) approved device they would prefer.
“Inshore fishermen already have a tough time, so for me it was vital to reduce any stress where possible,” said James Glover, managing director of Maritime Systems. “We have made the registration and installation as simple as possible, with one fee covering everything. We expect to subscribe the majority of the English fishermen to our I-VMS and are committed to making sure it does not hamper them in any way.”
Developed following a six-month consultation with industry representatives, the MS44 is a compact I-VMS with internal GPS & GSM antennas. Mounted within the wheelhouse, it does not require any holes to be drilled or external mounting like previous VMS systems.
Status indicators inform the skipper the device is operating correctly and after installation it will operate autonomously, with firmware upgrades and settings adjusted remotely from the factory if required.
The company is offering free installation and local support and is making a donation to the Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society with every subscription.
