When taking a cruise with a loved one is impossible, you can tag along virtually by tracking the ship in real time with the help of interactive websites. Today's cruise ships come equipped with tracking chips that allow you to locate the ship and follow its most recent trip. Follow several ships or just one and review live time reviews from passengers. Cruise mapping websites allow you to track the ship's arrival in port, making it easier to pick up passengers in a timely fashion.

Step 1

Visit a cruise tracking website like Vessel Finder (vesselfinder.com) or Cruise Mapper (cruisemapper.com).

Step 2

Adjust the settings on the web page by selecting a cruise line, the arrival port and the area. Some websites allow you to track the cruise with the ship's name.

Step 3

Zoom in to follow the track of a specific ship. Click on any available ship information tab. From here, you can find the ship's call sign, latitude, longitude, ship size and the type of ship.

Tip

  • Some cruise tracking maps update regularly on an hourly basis, others more frequently.

About the Author

Mimi Bullock's writing reflects her love of traveling the back roads of small towns and sampling the local cuisine. As a regular feature writer for "Southern Hospitality Traveler" and journalist for "Beachin' Magazine," she gets to experience the rich heritage of the southern culture. She is also a licensed cosmetologist who has her own skin care line.

Photo Credits

  • Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
SHARE