Garmin adds AIS warning to chartplotters
Garmin has introduced a software update for select GPSMAP and ECHOMAP chartplotters, adding an AIS (Automatic Identification System) warning messaging feature designed to enhance situational awareness and help mitigate collision risks on the water. AIS provides real-time data on the position, speed and heading of AIS-equipped vessels in a boater’s vicinity. When integrated with a Garmin chartplotter, AIS targets appear as a layer over the live chart or radar display, allowing captains to monitor vessel movements.
With this update, Garmin chartplotters will now display addressed and broadcast warning messages (AIS Message types 12 and 14) from a connected AIS-capable device. These messages, generated by third-party licensed AIS broadcasters, deliver text-based alerts to notify boaters of potential safety hazards, such as certain floating objects or proximity to North Atlantic right whale management areas.
Source Garmin.com
The AIS warning feature is compatible with GPSMAP 9000, 9500, 8600, 8600xsv, 8700, 7×3/9×3/12×3/16×3 and 10×2/12×2 series, along with the ECHOMAP Ultra 2 and UHD2 touchscreen series. A Garmin AIS-capable device, such as the AIS 800 transceiver, VHF 215 AIS marine radio or Cortex V1, is required to use the feature.
Included in the Q2 2025 marine software update, the feature is free to download via the ActiveCaptain mobile app or Garmin Express on a computer. Garmin’s marine device software update page provides a full list of new features and compatibility details.