Sea Traffic Management (STM) represents one of the most crucial aspects of modern maritime navigation. It entails sustainable, environmentally friendly, and safe management of maritime operations through various projects, as well as their analysis and implementation. Built upon digital technologies, STM was developed by the EU following the model of air traffic management. It consists of 8 projects and is defined by 4 operational services. VTS plays a vital role in coordinating STM, by providing information. The concept is continually evolving, with predictions pointing towards the transformation of maritime traffic through the integration of autonomous vessels, the promotion of e-navigation, and collaboration with international organizations such as the IMO. The analysis in this paper focuses on the development of the STM concept and projects developed within it, as well as the progress of STM implementation in Croatia. The results of the analysis underscore the role of STM in enhancing the safety and efficiency of maritime traffic, while its application in Croatia is seen as a pivotal step towards the modernization of maritime infrastructure.