Become an AIS Data Feeder

Share your AIS data with PortTracker and become part of a growing maritime intelligence network. Two simple ways to contribute — pick the one that suits you best.

View Feeder Plans

Why Become a Port Feeder?

PortTracker relies on a decentralized network of AIS receivers to deliver real-time vessel tracking for ports around the world. By sharing your AIS data, you help expand global coverage and gain access to premium feeder benefits — including API access, the full vessel database, and discounted usage of TrustedDocks and new-ships.com.

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Two Ways to Feed Data

Choose the method that fits your setup. Both are production-proven and actively used by our feeder community.

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The Smart Way — AIS Catcher App

Grab an old Android phone or a Raspberry Pi, connect an inexpensive SDR stick, and install our AIS Catcher Feeder APK. The app handles everything automatically:

  • Plug & Play — Install the APK, pair your SDR receiver, and you're live in minutes
  • Raspberry Pi — Alternatively, install Lineage OS on a Pi for a headless, always-on station
  • MQTT Protocol — Data is transmitted securely via MQTT with TLS encryption
  • Buffered & Reliable — Built-in message buffering protects against signal loss and network outages
  • Low Power — Runs 24/7 on minimal hardware with virtually no maintenance
Get the Feeder App
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The Classic Way — TCP / UDP

Already running an AIS receiver with a Raspberry Pi, RTL-SDR dongle, or dedicated AIS station? Send raw NMEA sentences directly to our ingestion server:

  • TCP or UDP — Connect to our AIS import server using your preferred transport protocol
  • Your Port = Your ID — Use your TrustedDocks or PortTracker user ID as the destination port number
  • Any Hardware — Works with any device that can output NMEA over a network socket
  • No Special Software — Standard tools like netcat, socat, or rtl_ais piping work perfectly
Start Feeding via TCP/UDP

What You Get as a Feeder

As a Port Feeder, your data powers the PortTracker network. In return, you unlock premium features at no cost — including full API access (REST and Live), vessel database queries, and discounted rates on TrustedDocks and new-ships.com. Your contribution makes the entire maritime community smarter.

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