How to Use the NavAPI MCP in Claude

Use NavAPI in Claude Desktop to pull live maritime traffic and route data directly into your chat workflow.

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Connect NavAPI MCP to Claude Desktop

Create your Vinkius account to connect NavAPI to Claude Desktop and route execution through our secure gateway. The platform manages server hosting, runtime updates, and security layers. Configuration requires no manual server provisioning.

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Setup NavAPI with Claude Desktop

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Real-time port traffic for Claude Desktop

Get current vessel counts and port status by invoking `get_port_vessel_traffic`. You'll see exactly how many ships are moving through a hub without leaving your conversation. This data helps you make immediate logistics decisions. Your agent handles the lookup while you focus on the schedule.

Calculate routes with NavAPI

Run `search_maritime_routes` to pull valid shipping paths for your cargo. You get actual coordinates and route details instead of generic estimates. Claude Desktop uses these results to plot efficient paths. No more guessing where the ships are headed.

Audit port infrastructure

Use `get_nautical_ports` and `get_port_distance` to map out your global network. Check the distance between two points to verify transit times instantly. These tools provide the raw numbers you need. Your AI client processes the math so you don't have to.

Setup guide

Set up NavAPI MCP in Claude Web or Desktop

1

Open Claude Settings

Go to claude.ai, click your profile icon, then navigate to Customize → Connectors.
2

Add Custom Connector

Click the "+" button and select Add custom connector. Paste your Vinkius endpoint URL: https://edge.vinkius.com/[YOUR_TOKEN_HERE]/mcp Replace [YOUR_TOKEN_HERE] with your token from cloud.vinkius.com. For OAuth-protected servers, expand Advanced settings to add credentials.
3

Start a conversation

Open a new chat. The NavAPI MCP tools are available immediately — no restart needed.

Endpoint URL

https://edge.vinkius.com/[YOUR_TOKEN_HERE]/mcp

No configuration file needed — paste the URL directly in the Claude web interface.

Available on Free (1 connector), Pro, Max, Team, and Enterprise plans.

Prerequisites

Claude Desktop installed (macOS or Windows)
Active Vinkius subscription with a valid endpoint token

1

Open Claude Desktop Settings

Click the menu icon at the top-left corner, go to Settings → Developer → Edit Config. This opens claude_desktop_config.json in your default text editor.
2

Paste the NavAPI MCP configuration

Copy the JSON snippet on the right into the mcpServers object. Replace [YOUR_TOKEN_HERE] with your endpoint token from cloud.vinkius.com.
3

Restart Claude Desktop

Close and reopen the application. Claude needs a full restart to load new MCPs — refreshing a conversation is not enough.
4

Verify the connection

Open a new conversation. Click the 🔌 icon at the bottom of the message input. You should see tools listed under navapi-mcp.

json

{
  "mcpServers": {
    "navapi-mcp": {
      "url": "https://edge.vinkius.com/[YOUR_TOKEN_HERE]/mcp"
    }
  }
}

Get your connection token →

Independent Platform Disclaimer: Vinkius is an independent platform and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, sponsored by, verified by, or otherwise authorized by NavAPI. All third-party trademarks, logos, and brand names are the property of their respective owners. Their use on this website is strictly for informational purposes to identify service compatibility and interoperability.

Why Choose Vinkius

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Common questions about NavAPI MCP in Claude Desktop

Open your configuration file via Settings, Developer, Edit Config. Add the server details under the mcpServers key, save the file, and restart the app.

Yes. Once configured, you can ask your agent to find routes using the available tools. It will pull the latest data directly into your chat.

Absolutely. Use the traffic tool to get live stats for any port. The response appears right in your active session.

We only handle maritime location and traffic data. Your connection remains local, and no sensitive credentials leave your machine.

Look for the hammer icon in your chat input bar. If it's there, your tools are ready for use.

Use it with your favorite AI tools

Connect this server to Cursor, Claude, VS Code, and more.