Before you start
Make sure your device's GPS is enabled and that location permissions are granted to the MarineTraffic app. Without this, the distance cannot be calculated.
To check on iOS: Settings → Privacy & Security → Location Services → MarineTraffic → set to While Using the App
To check on Android: Settings → Apps → MarineTraffic → Permissions → Location → set to Allow while using the app
Where to find it
From the map, tap on any vessel to open its details page
Tap the Current position tab
Scroll down to the Vessel position section
You will find the Distance from me value, showing the distance between your current GPS location and the vessel
What does this value represent?
The Distance from me is the straight-line distance between your device's current GPS position and the vessel's last known AIS position, expressed in nautical miles.
Note: this is not a navigational route distance — it is a direct point-to-point measurement. The vessel's position is based on its last AIS update, so always check the Data received on timestamp to confirm how recent the position is.
Troubleshooting
Distance not showing?
Check that your device GPS is switched on
Ensure location permissions are granted to MarineTraffic (see above)
Try closing and reopening the app to refresh your location
Distance looks incorrect?
Make sure you have a good GPS signal — indoors or in dense urban areas can affect accuracy
Check that your device is not using a VPN or mock location app