Port Calls
Learn how to create, manage, and track vessel port calls in PortTask.
Overview
A port call represents a vessel's scheduled visit to a port. It serves as the container for all activities that occur during the vessel's stay, including service orders, documentation, and communication.
Each port call includes essential information such as:
- Vessel: The ship making the port call
- Port: The destination port
- ETA (Estimated Time of Arrival): When the vessel is expected to arrive
- ETD (Estimated Time of Departure): When the vessel is expected to leave
- Purpose: The reason for the port call (e.g., cargo operations, bunkering, repairs)
Creating Port Calls
Follow these steps to create a new port call:
Step 1: Navigate to Port Calls
Click on "Port Calls" in the sidebar under the Operations section, then click the "New Port Call" button.
Step 2: Select Vessel
Choose the vessel from your registered fleet. If the vessel isn't listed, you'll need to add it first in the Vessels section.
Step 3: Select Port & Dates
Choose the destination port and enter the ETA and ETD. You can also specify the berth if known.
Step 4: Add Details
purpose of the call, any special instructions, and apply a playbook to automatically create service orders.
Port Call Status
Port calls progress through several statuses during their lifecycle:
Port call is planned and confirmed
Vessel is en route to the port
Vessel has arrived at the port
Vessel is moored at the berth
Vessel has left the port
Port call was cancelled
Vessel Assignment
Before creating a port call, ensure the vessel is registered in your system. Vessels can be added with the following information:
- Vessel Name: The official name of the ship
- IMO Number: Unique identification number
- MMSI: Maritime Mobile Service Identity for AIS tracking
- Vessel Type: Container, Tanker, Bulk Carrier, etc.
- Flag State: Country of registration
- Dimensions: LOA (Length Overall) and Beam
Tip: AIS Integration
PortTask can automatically update vessel positions using AIS data. Ensure the MMSI number is correct for accurate tracking.
Managing Port Calls
Editing
Click on a port call to view details, then use the Edit button to modify dates, vessel, or other information.
Timeline View
Use the Calendar or Timeline view to see all port calls in a visual format, making it easy to spot scheduling conflicts.
Map View
View vessel positions on an interactive map with real-time AIS data integration.
Cloning
Clone an existing port call to quickly create a similar one with the same vessel and services.
Learn about Service Orders
Create service requests for your port calls.