Virtual AIS mark: An AIS mark that is transmitted electronically via the land-based AIS system.

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As part of the AIS system, fixed constructions, such as production platforms, wave energy installations and marine farming, are supplemented with AIS marking.

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The purpose of supplementing marking with AIS is to make it easier for ships to identify the marking or construction.

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In addition, AIS marking can be established where there is NO physical presence, which is called virtual AIS marking. This type is normally used to mark sudden danger, e.g. wrecks and struck lighthouses that constitute an underwater obstacle.

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Virtual marking can also be used to mark an area where the ships must pay extra attention, e.g. at a wave energy range.