We needed an AIS.

Besides simply enjoying having one aboard, NW Explorations requires that all vessels in the fleet be so equipped.

The choices are many, but our criteria was fairly specific.

It had to be future proof. In other words, it must support NMEA 2000 as well as NEMA 0183.
WIFI connectivity would be preferred. This allows us to control the unit with a wireless device such as an iPhone without having to have hard cable access. In our boat, where space and access is hard to come by, this will make managing the unit easy.
Waterproof. After all it going to be on a boat.
Easy to engage "silent mode".

We chose the Vesper XB-8000. Here's the link to the manufacturer's site. In addition to meeting our criteria, there are some neat things it does. Because of it's WIFI feature, we can connect our iPad and display AIS targets on iNavX navigation software.

We also installed their AIS VHF antenna splitter so we did not have to install a separate AIS antenna. We may add a dedicated antenna later after we see if this arrangement meets our needs. Initial tests are promising.

I can also attest to the quality of the customer support. We had a glitch in the install. And although there was no problem with the Vesper AIS, support was very helpful and responsive. And I was working with the team which is located at the company headquarters in New Zealand.

I would rate the unit perfect if it were not for the blueish color, very Caribbean. But then again, it is tucked away where no one will ever see it.:-) Installed May 2013.

Here's some more background from my favorite marine electronics website.

AIS as entertainment.

In those remote places we love to frequent, the AIS often serves as what we call NorthWest TV. We'll watch the cargo ships, tugs, fishing vessels and the occasional cruise ship as they sail past us. When we were cruising the outside coast of Vancouver Island a Canadian Coast Guard Cutter, we spotted 15 miles out, turned to an intercept course and passed exactly one mile abeam in the fog. Obviously a training exercise. We were glad to serve as a target for those who serve us on the open waters.