Overview of the Vessel Traffic System in the Republic of Croatia

Inspecting maritime traffic at any time (24/7) and under different conditions, enables coastal states to participate more actively in maritime traffic management and empowers international and national regulations. The advancement of technology has enabled coastal states to establish better maritime surveillance to increase maritime navigation safety and protect their own interests. One of these systems is Vessel Traffic System (hereinafter: VTS) whose purpose is to increase safety of navigation, protect the marine environment and improve the efficiency of maritime traffic. Implementation of VTS system in Republic of Croatia is carried out by the service of Vessel Traffic Monitoring and Information System (hereinafter: VTMIS). Establishment of the VTMIS service is an obligation of the Republic of Croatia in accordance with the provisions of Directive 2002/59/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council. This paper gives an overview of the establishment of the VTS in the Republic of Croatia and future development plans.