FREMANTLE Ports has completed a major upgrade of its Voyager Port Management Information System (PMIS), transitioning the platform from a desktop-based application to a modern web-based system used to coordinate shipping and cargo operations.
The port authority says it has successfully transitioned to the new Voyager application, describing the move as a critical step that brings Fremantle into line with port operations around the world.
Voyager is used to coordinate vessel movements, shipping activities and cargo operations across the port.
A Fremantle Ports spokesperson said the upgraded system was a customised implementation of a port control platform developed and owned by Dutch maritime technology company Tidalis. The port upgraded to the latest software release.
According to Fremantle Ports, Voyager provides a real-time overview of vessel arrivals and departures, berth availability and maintenance shutdowns, allowing planners to anticipate bottlenecks and improve vessel turnaround times.
The system also supports the coordination of tugs, pilots and berth allocation, allowing operational partners to interact directly with vessel traffic service personnel and providing a real-time overview of ship movements.
Fremantle Ports said the migration was completed during a six-hour switchover window following several months of planning, testing and business continuity preparation.
Approximately 450 users are registered on the platform. Apart from an initial login reset associated with upgraded cybersecurity measures, the port reported no operational issues following go-live.
The web-based architecture is also expected to provide opportunities for future integrations and operational improvements.
“Emissions reporting and other sustainability measures are managed outside of Voyager,” the spokesperson noted.
The upgrade forms part of Fremantle Ports’ broader modernisation strategy as trade volumes continue to grow and long-term planning progresses towards the relocation of container trade to Kwinana.
“Fremantle Ports is working towards its vision of facilitating trade for a more prosperous Western Australia,” the spokesperson said.
“To do so, we need to pursue continuous improvement, which includes modernising areas of our work. North Quay will continue to facilitate trade growth as container trade relocates to Kwinana and Voyager is an integral part of our modernised trade hub offering.”
Voyager remains Fremantle Ports’ primary online port information management system, enabling shipping operators and other port stakeholders to access operational information and interact with the port’s vessel traffic management services in real time.