9 Best Cruise Ship Tracker Apps

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In the quest for the best cruise ship tracking app, today’s tech-savvy travelers are seeking tools that not only enhance their journey but also provide real-time insights and updates.

Cruises offer a unique way to explore the world, and with the right app, you can elevate your experience from great to extraordinary.

Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or embarking on your first maritime adventure, having a reliable cruise ship tracker at your fingertips is essential.

In this guide, we’ll navigate through the top 9 cruise ship tracking apps, each offering distinct features to cater to your travel needs. From real-time location tracking to comprehensive itineraries, these apps are designed to keep you informed and connected throughout your cruise journey.

So, set sail with us as we explore these digital companions that are perfect for every cruise ship traveler.

MyShipTracking

MyShipTracking stands out in the list of the best cruise ship tracking apps, offering an array of features that cater to the needs of both casual cruisers and maritime enthusiasts.

Here’s a breakdown of what makes MyShipTracking an essential tool for your journey:

  • Global Tracking Capabilities:
    • Tracks ships worldwide, ideal for monitoring your cruise or observing vessels across different regions.
    • Ensures you’re always informed about your ship’s location, regardless of your cruising destination.
  • Real-Time Information:
    • Provides up-to-the-minute data on your ship’s current location, speed, and estimated arrival times.
    • Essential for planning shore excursions and coordinating activities.
  • User-Friendly Interface:
    • Intuitive design allows for easy navigation within the app.
    • Quickly search for and bookmark your cruise ship for continual updates.
  • Comprehensive Coverage:
    • Not limited to just one region, it covers a wide range of seas and oceans.
    • Useful for tracking multiple cruises simultaneously, perfect for those who love to stay connected.
  • Versatility Across Devices:
    • Compatible with smartphones, tablets, and laptops.
    • Ensures consistent access to tracking information, regardless of the device used.

Available on: iOS & Desktop


Cruising Earth

Cruising Earth is another gem among the best cruise ship tracking apps, tailored to enrich the cruising experience for every traveler. This app stands out with its user-centric features and detailed insights.

Let’s delve into what makes Cruising Earth a must-have for your cruising adventures:

  • Personalized Ship Tracking:
    • Follow specific ships, receiving updates and notifications about their journey.
    • Ideal for keeping an eye on your own cruise or tracking the voyages of friends and family.
  • Detailed Maps and Itineraries:
    • Offers comprehensive maps that detail the routes of various cruise ships.
    • Access to itineraries helps in planning your time on and off the ship.
  • Interactive User Interface:
    • User-friendly and easy to navigate, enhancing the overall user experience.
    • Engaging design that makes tracking your cruise both fun and informative.
  • Cruise Community Integration:
    • Connect with a community of cruise enthusiasts within the app.
    • Share experiences, tips, and get insights from fellow travelers.
  • Up-to-Date Cruise Information:
    • Regular updates on cruise schedules and any changes in itineraries.
    • Essential for staying informed about your cruise in real-time.

Available on: Desktop


ShipFinder

ShipFinder earns its place as a top contender in the realm of the best cruise ship tracking apps with its precision and comprehensive features. This app is designed for those who appreciate detailed, real-time information about their maritime journey. Below are the key features that make ShipFinder a reliable companion for cruise enthusiasts:

  • Accurate Real-Time Tracking:
    • Offers live tracking of ships, providing exact locations and movement details.
    • Ideal for monitoring the current position of your cruise ship at any time.
  • Extensive Vessel Information:
    • Delivers detailed data about each vessel, including size, speed, and course.
    • Useful for enthusiasts interested in the technical aspects of maritime travel.
  • Global Coverage:
    • Tracks ships across all major seas and oceans, offering a global perspective.
    • Allows you to follow cruise ships anywhere in the world, expanding your tracking capabilities.
  • User-Centric Interface:
    • Easy-to-use interface that simplifies the tracking process.
    • Quick search and filter options to find specific ships or cruise lines.
  • Historical Data Access:
    • Provides access to historical ship movements and paths.
    • Great for reviewing past voyages or planning future trips based on historical routes.

Available on: iOS & Desktop


VesselTracker

VesselTracker secures its position among the best cruise ship tracking apps with its thorough approach to maritime tracking and information. This app is tailored for those who crave a deep dive into the details of their cruise ship’s journey. Here are the standout features that make VesselTracker an indispensable tool for cruise enthusiasts:

  • In-Depth Vessel Tracking:
    • Delivers precise tracking of cruise ships, offering detailed location, speed, and direction information.
    • Essential for passengers who want to monitor their ship’s journey meticulously.
  • Historical Voyage Data:
    • Provides access to historical data and previous routes taken by ships.
    • Beneficial for those interested in the travel patterns of specific cruise ships or for planning future voyages.
  • Comprehensive Ship Database:
    • Contains extensive information about a wide array of vessels, including cruise ships, cargo ships, and tankers.
    • Ideal for users who enjoy learning about different types of maritime vessels.
  • Real-Time AIS Data:
    • Utilizes Automatic Identification System (AIS) data for up-to-date tracking and information.
    • Ensures accuracy and timeliness of the information provided.
  • Global Coverage:
    • Offers global tracking capabilities, covering major seas and oceans.
    • Allows users to track cruise ships anywhere in the world, adding a universal appeal.

Available on: iOS, Android & Desktop


VesselFinder

VesselFinder is recognized as one of the best cruise ship tracking apps, thanks to its user-friendly interface and comprehensive tracking capabilities. It’s an ideal choice for cruise travelers who value clarity and simplicity in their tracking tools. Below are the features that set VesselFinder apart in the world of maritime apps:

  • Precise Location Tracking:
    • Offers accurate real-time tracking of cruise ships, providing current location, speed, and course.
    • Perfect for travelers who want to stay updated on their cruise ship’s whereabouts.
  • Detailed Vessel Information:
    • Presents in-depth details about each ship, including technical specifications and historical data.
    • Appeals to those who have an interest in the finer details of maritime vessels.
  • Global Ship Monitoring:
    • Covers a wide range of geographic locations, enabling tracking of ships across various seas and oceans.
    • Suitable for tracking your own cruise journey or exploring other cruise routes worldwide.
  • Intuitive User Experience:
    • Features a straightforward and clean interface, making it easy to navigate and use.
    • Ensures a hassle-free experience for users of all tech-savviness levels.
  • Regular Updates and Notifications:
    • Provides timely updates and notifications about changes in ship routes or schedules.
    • Keeps travelers informed, which is particularly useful for planning onshore activities.

Available on: iOS, Android & Desktop


Cruise Hive

Cruise Hive distinguishes itself as a multifaceted contender among the best cruise ship tracking apps. It uniquely blends real-time ship tracking with the latest cruise news and insightful tips, making it a comprehensive resource for any cruise traveler. Here’s what makes Cruise Hive stand out:

  • Real-Time Ship Tracking:
    • Provides accurate tracking of cruise ships, giving you real-time updates on location, speed, and direction.
    • Essential for travelers who like to stay informed about their ship’s current position and journey progress.
  • Integrated Cruise News:
    • Delivers the latest news and updates from the cruise industry directly within the app.
    • Keeps you updated on new cruise lines, destinations, and any industry-related developments.
  • Travel Tips and Guides:
    • Offers valuable tips and guides for cruise travelers, covering various aspects of cruising life.
    • Great for both first-time cruisers and seasoned travelers looking for insights and advice.
  • Community Engagement:
    • Provides a platform for users to engage with a community of cruise enthusiasts.
    • Share experiences, seek advice, and connect with fellow cruise lovers.
  • User-Friendly Design:
    • Boasts an intuitive and easy-to-navigate interface, suitable for users of all ages and tech levels.
    • Ensures a seamless and enjoyable user experience.

Available on: Desktop


ShipCruises

ShipCruises secures its place among the best cruise ship tracking apps with its specialized features and user-friendly approach. This app is particularly designed for cruise ship travelers who desire a tailored and interactive tracking experience. Here are the key highlights of ShipCruises:

  • Dedicated Cruise Ship Tracking:
    • Focuses exclusively on cruise ship tracking, offering detailed and up-to-date information.
    • Ideal for those who want to concentrate solely on the specifics of their cruise journey.
  • Real-Time Updates and Notifications:
    • Provides instant updates on your cruise ship’s location, course, and speed.
    • Sends notifications about any changes or important events related to your cruise.
  • Interactive Maps and Itineraries:
    • Features interactive maps that display the current position and route of cruise ships.
    • Includes detailed itineraries, helping travelers plan their time on board and during shore excursions.
  • Customizable User Experience:
    • Allows users to personalize settings, such as favorite ships or preferred notification types.
    • Enhances the user experience by tailoring the app to individual preferences and needs.
  • Port Information and Tips:
    • Offers valuable information about various ports of call, including tips and recommendations.
    • Useful for travelers looking to explore destinations during their cruise.

Available on: Desktop


CruiseMapper

CruiseMapper stands tall in the list of the best cruise ship tracking apps, renowned for its comprehensive approach to cruise planning and tracking. This app is a treasure trove of information for cruise ship travelers, offering everything from ship tracking to detailed itinerary information. Here’s a closer look at what CruiseMapper brings to the table:

  • Extensive Cruise Ship Tracking:
    • Provides real-time tracking of cruise ships, giving you live updates on their whereabouts.
    • Perfect for passengers who want to keep a close eye on their ship’s journey and timing.
  • Rich Itinerary Details:
    • Offers in-depth information about cruise ship itineraries, including ports of call and timings.
    • Ideal for planning shore excursions and making the most of your time at each destination.
  • Vast Cruise Line Database:
    • Contains detailed information about various cruise lines and their fleets.
    • Useful for comparing and choosing cruises, as well as learning about different ships and their amenities.
  • Interactive Maps and Features:
    • Features interactive maps that provide a visual representation of cruise routes and ship locations.
    • Enhances the planning experience by giving a clear overview of your cruise journey.
  • Cruise News and Reviews:
    • Keeps you updated with the latest cruise news, reviews, and industry insights.
    • Helps in staying informed about the cruising world and making well-informed travel decisions.

Available on: iOS, Android & Desktop


MarineTraffic

MarineTraffic has established itself as a premier choice among the best cruise ship tracking apps, acclaimed for its global reach and detailed maritime information.

This app is a favorite not only among cruise ship travelers but also maritime professionals, offering a depth of data and tracking capabilities that are unmatched. Here are the essential features that make MarineTraffic a standout app:

  • Worldwide Ship Tracking:
    • Offers real-time tracking of vessels across the globe, including cruise ships.
    • Essential for travelers who wish to track their cruise ship’s journey on a global scale.
  • Extensive Vessel Details:
    • Provides comprehensive information about each ship, including specifications, current location, and voyage data.
    • Ideal for those who have a keen interest in the details of maritime vessels and their journeys.
  • Live AIS Data:
    • Utilizes Automatic Identification System (AIS) data for up-to-the-minute tracking accuracy.
    • Ensures that the information provided is current and precise.
  • Port and Route Information:
    • Includes detailed information on ports and popular maritime routes.
    • Useful for travelers looking to learn more about their cruise ship’s route and the ports they will visit.
  • Interactive Maps and Tools:
    • Features an interactive map interface that provides a visual and intuitive way to track vessels.
    • Tools such as distance calculators and route planners enhance the user experience.

Available on: iOS, Android & Desktop


Conclusion

Choosing the right cruise ship tracking app can significantly enhance your travel experience. These apps offer a range of features from real-time tracking to detailed ship information, ensuring you’re well-informed and prepared for your journey at sea.

Remember, a well-planned cruise is a well-enjoyed cruise. With these apps in your toolkit, you’re set for a seamless and enjoyable cruising adventure.


Photo of author

Dan Claydon