The objective of this research was to develop and implement a reliable, repeatable, and verifiable method or SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) to collect vessel count and classification information by time of day. The research involved field tests of several approaches that could be applicable to a broader statewide effort to collect vessel count information utilizing the selected method on approximately 214 state channels within the state’s Marine Transportation System. Once data was collected, the project team developed recommendations on variables to consider and a formalized procedure, including relevant methodologies, for conducting vessel counts.