Since launching its Just-in-Time (JIT) call solution, Navi-Port, in late 2019, Wartsila Voyage has now formalised a full strategy for digital port call optimisation.
The port call process continues to be “inefficient and chaotic” and that is where the company sees opportunities for its solutions, according to Bruce Mills, Global Business Development Director of Ship Traffic Control, Wartsila Voyage.
“JIT is just one part of the jigsaw,” he said, “Navi-Port was launched in late 2019 and we now have some real-life case studies.”
Mills noted that many in the industry have already tackled some of the low-hanging fruit when it comes to digitalising processes, and this includes JIT, but there is a lot more that needs to be done.
The company is looking to connect an ecosystem that will ultimately enable digital port calls: including Connective Navigation Systems; Navi-Port; Vessel Traffic Management Systems; Navi-Safe for collision avoidance; and Port Management Information Systems (PMIS).
Pilots and tugs are also an important part of the ecosystem with marine operations management to connect them to the shore system and remotely control operations on the pilotage and towage services from the shore.
Key to the overall strategy is bringing together the entire port community from customs to ship agents to the vessels and port authorities under the Wartsila digital port call platform.
For multiple stakeholders have access to the same tools and data is the aim. The company is also encouraging port operators, like Associated British Ports (ABP) in the UK, who manage multiple ports to consider implementing such a system across its entire portfolio.
One case where the company has already seen success is through its work with the Port of Tanger-Med through the co-development of a new PMIS.
The project includes the Wartsila Navi-Harbour Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) software application and Wartsila Navi-Port for JIT arrivals.
Mills said that in this example the port is now likely to give priority to vessels that already have Wartsila tools onboard, making port calls more seamless.
“I think this model will be rolled out more and more,” he said.
Wartsila Voyage is currently focused on four key objectives including decarbonisation, safety, making more of now, and affordability.
Regarding decarbonisation, Mills noted that the subject was one of the top five corporate objectives for the company, and shareholders are pushing for increased focus..
For the company this means providing “best-in-class” solutions and services to reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions.
