Had my first look at an active AIS system today. I can see this becoming
a very useful tool, especially for the offshore cruisers and
single-handed sailors.
All it would need would be a simple receiver that was connected to your
GPS for inputs, to be able to compare and give warnings of potential and
positive close approaches from ships in your area.
The system I saw, gave ship name, position, heading, speed,
draft,destination, and ETA .... there may have been more, but it was
only a quick look.

otn