ABSTRACT: The Norwegian Coastal Authority has introduced Reference Routes for Navigation to enhance maritime safety and efficiency along the Norwegian coast. These routes provide predefined tracks aimed at minimizing human errors in route planning, improving traffic separation, and promoting predictable traffic patterns. This study evaluates the impact of these reference routes by analysing AIS tracking data from before and after their implementation. A quantitative approach was used, incorporating statistical methods such as T-tests, linear regression, and K-Means clustering to assess vessel compliance and adaptation. The findings indicate a statistically significant, yet modest, improvement in adherence to reference routes, with vessel characteristics playing an important role in compliance levels. These results suggest that while voluntary routing measures influence traffic patterns, complete compliance remains unlikely. Further research is recommended to validate and expand upon these findings.

KEYWORDS: Safety at Sea, Automatic Identification System (AIS), e-Navigation, Optimal Route, Operational Use of ECDIS, Electronic Navigational Chart (ENC), Autonomous Ships, Ports and Harbours

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