Lerwick Port Launches Latest VMS

Lerwick Port Authority have inaugurated a new Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) which utilises the latest technology to improve the handling of ship movements at the busy Shetland port.

Transas, a world-leader in providing harmonised integrated solutions to the maritime industry, has installed the system across four sites covering the port area – port control in the main building and three remote stations, at Rova Head north of Lerwick and Maryfield and Kirkabister, on the island of Bressay, monitoring the northern approaches, inner harbour and southern approaches, respectively. Fibre and microwave links supply data back to port control.

The completion was marked on Friday 19 August, 2016 with invitations extended to port users to view the new system.

The modernising VMS project, including the Transas contract, telecommunications and civil works, cost £450,000.

The Port Authority’s Deputy Harbourmaster, Captain Alexander Simpson, said: “The VMS is already a great asset for Port Control in handling shipping movements and providing navigational assistance. It combines data from multiple sensors in very user-friendly vector chart operator display units, extends Port Control’s VHF radio range, displays weather information and linked cameras deliver CCTV coverage – all enhancing the efficiency and safety of operations.

“The investment in the VMS is just one of several projects expanding the port’s infrastructure at a time when we are welcoming larger vessels – for example, the biggest cruise ship yet at Lerwick arrived this week.”

The new VMS is based on the high-end Navi-Harbour software solution from Transas. Hardware equipment scope consists of Class A AIS Transponders, Northrop Grumman Sperry Marine Vision Master radars, a Jotron VHF Communication System, Gill Meteorological sensors, general IT hardware platform and an APC Power Backup System.

“The Transas Ship Traffic Control solutions installed at Lerwick Harbour will provide tools for coordinated approach to maritime traffic control, monitoring and decision support which is vital in the era of rapid digital transformation,” comments Frank Coles, Transas CEO.