‘We’re uncovering things that were previously unseen’ – pioneer NextPort terminals explain the product’s impact

Terminal operators pioneering the use of NextPort have shared with the industry how it is improving their operations.

Speaking at the Container Terminal Automation Conference (CTAC) in Valencia, Spain, three operators discussed their different stages of integration of the NextPort solution and the results they are already seeing.

Clients noted that the technology functions as an augmentation layer, enhancing operational efficiency, simplifying troubleshooting, and ensuring information is easier to obtain and apply effectively – in addition to feedback into the system to enable continuous improvement and learn from troubleshooting.

Clients also noted that the industrialization capabilities were important, so they could scale up.

Hein Chetcuti, Chief Transformation Officer, Malta Freeport told the conference that previously the terminal had suffered from congestion. “We could resolve 50% of the problem but the other 50% was proving impossible. No one was able to understand what was happening,” he said.

Malta Freeport had already started working with NextPort, but took the decision to harvest the data collected to create a holistic picture of what was happening at the terminal, rather than looking at data in silos.

“We decided to use the data in the control room to start uncovering what the TOS was not telling us,” he said.

From that, they were able to understand and address how human behaviors were impacting operational efficiencies.

“We’re uncovering things that were previously unseen. These include situations where the TOS has dispatched the task to the machine, but an issue with an operator had delayed implementation. We’ve now been able to address that issue, which would normally be unseen. With NextPort, the machine has spotted something unexpected and created an alert,” said Hein.

Using the insight, they have been able to educate the team to reduce operational inefficiencies. “It’s nice to talk about AI, which will happen of course, and this platform is the foundation for that, but at the same time we have started understanding and educating people by showing them their behaviors,” said Hein.

Meanwhile, John Alvarez, Research and Development Director, Fenix Marine Services, explained to delegates at the conference terminal complexity creates a monitoring challenge.

“We have a very typical commercial operation, utilizing up to 20 RTGs, 50 Top handlers and 150 UTR. We rely heavily on process automation. For this work, every single machine needs to send the information every single time, all the sensors need to be working, and how can you monitor that manually? It’s almost impossible. The only way to do that is to have this type of tool. With the real time monitor, it tells us if something is failing, so it’s very important.”

At the same time, he said they value the data that is being generated which enables insights into continuous improvement. “You cannot improve what you cannot measure, so the first thing we need to do is measure what we have and try to improve that. If you don’t have these tools it’s almost impossible.”

At CMA CGM, the company is already implementing NextPort in three terminals and looking to expand it into 10.

Francisco Blanquer, R&D Senior Manager, CMA CGM said: “We needed to create it into an industrial product for many terminals, so we needed something at we could copy and paste. We’re already in implementation in three terminals, but this year we’re going to start implementing it in ten. Scaling this up is the key for us.”

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More News & Events

SAFARI Project Receives SOCINFO Digital Award

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May 1, 2026

April 30, 2026

An initiative to improve port resilience using NextPort’s digital twin technology has received a prestigious award for digital innovation.

The SAFARI project (Safe, ClimAte Resilient Infrastructure) was recognized as an award winning initiative in the category ‘Application of Emerging Technologies in the Port Sector.’ It was presented at the SOCINFO Digital Awards, where the award was received jointly with the project partners: the Port Authority of Seville, Sener, the University of Seville and Todobarro, highlighting the collaborative nature of the initiative.

The SOCINFO Digital Awards recognize digital transformation projects that deliver tangible impact across public administrations and strategic sectors. For the 2026 awards, special emphasis was placed on TIC Ports (Puertos TIC), recognizing organizations that are driving the digital transformation of the port sector through advanced technologies such as digital platforms, digital twins, artificial intelligence, automation and energy efficient solutions.

Funded by the Horizon Europe program, the SAFARI project aims to strengthen the resilience of port infrastructure by integrating advanced technologies and adopting a data driven approach. The project focuses on improving the capacity of port environments to anticipate, respond to and recover from climate related and operational risks, supporting safer and more resilient infrastructure management.

Oscar Pernia, Chief Technology Officer at NextPort said: “Digital twins are increasingly applied to multiple domains in ports. Their applications supports ports in optimizing their resources and assets, as well as further ensuring safe navigation and logistic resiliency, particularly in the context of a changing climate. NextPort's developments with Port of Sevilla and Sener in this area are key. Congratulations to the SAFARI team on this accolade, reflecting the collaboration and expertise that has gone into the project and the beneficial outcomes already being realized.”

At the Port of Seville, SAFARI is being implemented through the development of a comprehensive digital ecosystem that brings together a digital twin of infrastructure and operations, with real time data integration, predictive models and early warning systems, and advanced sensor networks. NextPort is responsible for developing the digital twin for SAFARI project, conceived as a unified platform that integrates information from vessels, infrastructure, port operations, services, ocean meteorological conditions and regulatory frameworks. NextPort’s digital twin acts as an integration and intelligence layer, connecting processes, systems and people, and transforming information generated by the platform into actionable alerts and operational context.

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NextPort speakers at CTAC 2026

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April 7, 2026

March 31, 2026

There is less than a month to go until we’re back at the Container Terminal Automation Conference in Valencia, Spain.

This year, in addition to participating as Bronze Sponsors, we’re proud to join industry peers on stage to share practical insights and real‑world experience. If you’re attending CTAC Europe, make sure you don’t miss these sessions:

- Automation vs. Performance: How can the promised benefits of automation really be achieved? — with Christian Blauert, SVP and Global Director - Port and Terminal Development at Moffatt & Nichol.

- From systems to capabilities: Rethinking technology adoption in container terminals — with Oscar Pernia, Chief Technology Officer at NextPort.

- How container terminals can convert digital visibility into operational advantage — with Andy Barrons, Chief Commercial Officer at NextPort.

- Building the data backbone to enable automation and AI — with Oscar Pernia.

Please visit our stand in the main exhibition area, where we'll be on hand to give you a live demonstration of NextPort.

We look forward to connecting with you there.

NextPort 2.0: Evolving Digital Twin Technology for Ports and Terminals

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March 9, 2026

March 4, 2026

At NextPort, we are advancing the future of port and terminal operations through next‑generation digital twin technology.

Built as a dynamic, real‑time replica of each customer’s facility, our platform brings together vast and varied data sources —from equipment activity to meteorological and ocean conditions— to deliver the information that gives terminal control rooms insight right when it’s needed.

By transforming data from a complex operational landscape into clear, actionable intelligence, NextPort helps users anticipate issues, optimize performance, and make smarter decisions over time.

So, what’s new in our latest version called NextPort 2.0:

Increased terminal visibility

Our platform for terminals now enables users to see on one screen all the activities associated with ship arrivals and berth planning, giving a one-page overview and creating a central place to manage each call. This enhancement improves predictability and optimization in terminal operations and supports better alignment with port authorities.

Improved alerting system

We've redesigned how alerts work to make them simpler to configure and easier to understand at a glance. Our workflow management application enables control room operators to quickly see what's important, set individual thresholds for alarm activation, and respond faster when things go off track in the terminal.

What‑if scenario modeling

NextPort is testing a new module that enables users to model scenarios and evaluate different allocation options for nautical and technical resources, reducing risk in decision-making. This means port scenarios and their outcomes can be compared before any operational changes are made, allowing decisions to be based on real constraints and actual port activity.

Real‑time weather and ocean conditions information

Even more data sources can now be integrated into the platform. By incorporating metocean variables and alarms that alert when conditions cross safety thresholds, port operators can now adjust plans proactively instead of reacting to problems.

Emission analytics and EU-ETS impact assessment

By combining different maritime data sources NextPort now is modeling vessel fleets, routes and port calls: aggregating a new dimension to our port call optimization focus. Our analytical tools apply EU-ETS regulatory framework to analyze its impact at ports, for port authorities analyzing their competitiveness and ocean transport networks evolution.

NextPort 2.0 is another step in our continuous journey to refine, expand, and elevate the digital twin experience for ports and terminals.

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Why NextPort

"It has been a pleasure collaborating on the pilot and adoption of the Digital Twin solution, and on building a reliable and efficient data backbone to support it. This is a strong first step, and I look forward to the next phase focused on impact assessment and value realization through deep integration with processes and technology."

"I would like to acknowledge the outstanding work of the NextPort team, whose strong commitment, technical expertise, and consistent support were instrumental to the successful delivery of the project."

“What motivates me every day at work is knowing that what we build contributes to making terminals greener. Beyond the technology, the best part of my job is interacting with customers; listening to their needs, understanding their challenges, and working together to turn ideas into real, sustainable solutions. Those conversations are where innovation really starts.”

"I am really excited about the technologies being used here, as they align perfectly with my interests. On top of that, the team is full of talented and motivated professionals, making it a great environment to learn and grow while also contributing. Being part of a young and dynamic team makes the experience even more engaging and rewarding."

"I’m here for two reasons: an incredible team and a truly innovative product. That combination makes every day exciting and full of possibilities."

"NextPort offers the unique opportunity to contribute to the development of a product that addresses the daily challenges faced by professionals in the Ports environment. We take advantage of cutting-edge technologies and the latest in Artificial Intelligence to offer innovative solutions. Additionally, NextPort fosters a collaborative environment where our team, makes the journey of creating advanced products rewarding and engaging."