I use QGIS to access Filemaker databases via ODBC (also to map vessel data). I find that it will refresh with new data when QGIS is forced to re-draw, by either zooming or panning the map.

I recently detailed how the QGIS-ODBC-Filemaker connection is made here:

Filemaker Interface with QGIS

I use QGIS to access Filemaker databases via ODBC (also to map vessel data). I find that it will refresh with new data when QGIS is forced to re-draw, by either zooming or panning the map.

I recently detailed how the QGIS-ODBC-Filemaker connection is made here, and the same principles should also apply to Access:

Filemaker Interface with QGIS