Harwich Haven Authority to implement NCOS UKC system

Harwich Haven Authority is set to further bolster its impressive safety record with the implementation of DHI Seaport’s NCOS ONLINE Dynamic Under Keel Clearance (UKC) system.

The trust port – responsible for managing the waterways into two of Britain’s busiest ports – has signed a deal with DHI Seaport to implement the technology across three phases.

It is hoped the technology will help boost the port’s capacity as it looks to continue welcoming the world’s biggest and deepest draught vessels exceeding 17m.

The system is currently being built with the first phase expected to go live before the end of this year.

Louise Fennessy, Deputy Harbour Master (Pilotage) at HHA, said: “It is hugely exciting to introduce this world-leading technology to HHA.

“We continue to welcome the world’s deepest vessels to our ports thanks to initiatives like our 2023 Channel Deepening Project – helping the Haven stand out as the UK’s premier place for container trade. This is the latest step in continuing this progress.

“This new system will help us more safely and accurately determine the UKC required to cater for these larger vessels, further minimising disruption and increasing reliability for our customers.

“We look forward to continuing our work with DHI Seaport as the implementation process progresses.”

DHI Seaport is currently developing a detailed model of the Harwich harbour area and its approaches – which will also bring together live data on tides, swell and wind alongside the latest bathymetrics.

The system will be integrated with HHA’s existing VTS Kongsberg system, enabling vessel data to be automatically transferred into NCOS ONLINE

Training will be provided by DHI Seaport to HHA’s VTS duty officers and pilots throughout the first four-month period.

DHI Seaport representatives will also be on site for around one week each month to provide support, answer questions and assist with the implementation process.

Simon Brandi Mortensen, Managing Director of DHI Seaport, said: “Harwich Haven Authority is in our view already leading the way by  adopting cutting edge technology for improving their port operations.

“DHI Seaport is deeply honoured to have been chosen as their trusted digital systems provider for dynamic UKC and optimised vessel traffic scheduling at the Port of Felixstowe.”

Stage Two has been earmarked for Q1 2027 and will include a gradual and carefully managed transition from the current static 10% UKC requirement to a dynamic UKC within the harbour area.

Stage Three will see Ipswich integrated into the system before a final integration stage across the remaining HHA ports.

Ports who have already successfully implemented the NCOS system include the Port of Brisbane in Australia, whose CEO Neil Stephens said: “NCOS Online has added significant value to the Port of Brisbane through the last decade.

“I have no doubt that this partnership between DHI Seaport and Harwich Haven Authority will deliver similar benefits to the customers and stakeholders of the UK’s largest container port.”