API Comparison
VesselFinder API Alternative
Compare your options and make an informed decision.
Key Takeaways
- 1Both offer core vessel tracking and particulars — VesselFinder has historical data since 2009
- 2Data Docked offers monthly plans from 80 EUR/month with self-serve signup
- 3Data Docked includes PSC inspection data from all 9 MOUs + USCG
Transparency note: This comparison is published by Data Docked. We aim to be factual and fair, drawing on official API documentation, consultations with maritime data experts, feedback from customers of multiple providers (including those who have switched between vendors), and public reviews from G2, Trustpilot, Reddit, and maritime community forums.
Last updated: February 2026. Pricing, features, and policies may have changed since this date. Despite our best efforts, some information may be incomplete or interpreted incorrectly. We encourage you to verify details on provider websites before making decisions. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice.
VesselFinder
Credit-based AIS API with global terrestrial and satellite coverage. Historical AIS archive dating back to 2009. Pricing starts at €330 for 10,000 credits. Has PHP and Python API wrappers on GitHub.
Key Strengths
- Global terrestrial and satellite AIS coverage
- Historical AIS archive since 2009
- Credit-based pricing (€330/10k, €625/20k, €1,470/50k credits)
- Both JSON and XML response formats
Data Docked
This siteDeveloper-focused maritime data API combining satellite and terrestrial AIS with transparent, predictable pricing. A practical choice for teams who value straightforward integration and cost transparency.
Why Choose Us
- No 10x premium for satellite AIS — same price for terrestrial and satellite
- Lower entry cost: 80 EUR/month vs €330 minimum credit purchase
- Better documentation and developer experience
- PSC inspection data from all 9 MOUs + USCG (not available via VesselFinder API)
830,000+
Vessels Tracked
99.9%
Uptime SLA
2 years
Historical Data
80 EUR/month
Starting Price
Global AIS Coverage
Combined satellite and terrestrial AIS coverage with no premium pricing for satellite data. Track vessels globally with the same credit cost regardless of location.
Learn more
Feature Comparison
8 of 25 featuresCompare Features
| Feature | Data DockedYou are here | VesselFinder |
|---|---|---|
Real-time vessel positions | ||
Satellite AIS coverage | ||
Historical track data | 2 years | Archive since 2009 |
Vessel particulars | 3 credits per request | |
PSC inspection records | All 9 MOUs + USCG | |
Uptime SLA | 99.9% | Not documented |
Pricing model | Credits from 80 EUR/mo | Credit packages (€330–€1,470) |
Entry-level cost | 80 EUR/month | €330 for 10,000 credits |
Available
Not available
Last updated February 2026. Verify on provider websites before deciding.
User Feedback
What Users Say About VesselFinder
VesselFinder
YBW Forum“VesselFinder wins on numbers and consistency of target reporting in certain coastal areas.”
VesselFinder
Developer forum“Good data, but documentation is less polished. The API works, you just have to figure things out yourself.”
VesselFinder
API documentation analysis“Satellite positions cost 10 credits vs 1 for terrestrial. Ocean tracking gets expensive quickly.”
Feedback from G2, Trustpilot, Reddit, and forums. Last updated February 2026.
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