30.7.2025 | Ports

Playing a crucial role in keeping our waterways safe, this month we catch up with Harwich Haven Authority’s Amedeo De Masi. A Traffic Services Officer in HHA’s 16-strong VTS team, Amedeo gives us a glimpse into life inside the VTS tower.

What does a typical shift look like for a VTS Officer at Harwich Haven Authority?

A typical shift for a VTSO is 12.5 hours, running either from 1745 to 0545 or vice versa if it’s a night shift. The core of our work is ensuring the safety of navigation for all users. This includes traffic organisation, pilotage and tug coordination, scheduling pilot launches, and constantly liaising with external stakeholders.

While operational safety is our foundation, it’s our commitment to excellent customer service that defines our approach. We’re here to provide a seamless, reliable experience for every vessel operator and stakeholder using this critical UK waterway.

How would you describe your role in ensuring the safe and efficient movement of vessels?

Every day is different, and that’s what makes the job so rewarding. We deal with a wide range of vessels – from large commercial ships to leisure craft – some of whom are highly familiar with our waters and regulations, while others are not. Our job is to stay trained, competent, and forward-thinking – anticipating risks and acting before situations become unsafe. It’s a real-time operation where safety and service excellence go hand in hand.

What types of vessels do you most commonly deal with in Harwich Haven waters?

We handle everything – from 400m-long container ships with deep draughts to small leisure craft. These vessels carry all kinds of cargo to terminals across Felixstowe, Harwich International, Ipswich and other smaller ports. It’s this diversity that keeps the job interesting and shows how vital our work is to the wider UK shipping landscape.

How does VTS collaborate with pilots, port authorities, and shipping lines?

Clear, constant, and transparent communication is key. We rely heavily on strong collaboration and information sharing to keep things running smoothly and safely. Operating as one team is vital, working with pilots, port authorities, and shipping lines to provide a joined-up, efficient service that benefits everyone.

What systems and technology do you rely on most in the VTS tower?

We use cutting-edge systems, including:

• RADAR for real-time traffic monitoring and navigation support.
• Data entry and management systems to organise vessel movements and log vital details.
• VHF radio to communicate directly with vessels.

By continuously investing in new systems, HHA ensures that the VTS team remain at the forefront of technological innovation, enhancing operational safety and efficiency.

What’s the biggest challenge you face in the control tower – and how do you manage it?

We face a mix of challenges – from managing high traffic volumes to unpredictable leisure craft and adverse weather. Real-time decision-making under pressure is key. This role is all about staying calm, communicating clearly, and relying on your training and your team – that’s what keeps our operations safe and effective.

How do you see technology shaping the future of vessel traffic services?

Technology is a powerful enabler. From automation to smarter data systems, technology is making our operations more efficient, sustainable, and forward-looking. As technology evolves, so does our ability to deliver outstanding service and safety, while also reducing our environmental footprint.

What role does Harwich Haven Authority play in the wider UK port and shipping landscape?

I see Harwich Haven Authority as the UK’s window to the North Sea and Europe. We’re a trust port that supports all kinds of cargo operations, and we play a major role in the nation’s supply chain. What makes it special is not just what we do – but how we do it: with a deep-rooted commitment to safety, customer service, and community benefit.

With increasing traffic and vessel sizes, how is HHA adapting its VTS capabilities?

We’re investing in major initiatives like our channel deepening project, which allows us to accommodate the world’s largest vessels safely and efficiently. We also upgrade our systems and training continuously, which is a clear example of how we’re futureproofing our operations to serve our customers and stakeholders in the best way possible.

What impact has digitalisation had on communication and coordination at sea?

It’s been transformative. Communications are faster, coordination is smoother, and we’re more agile in responding to situations. It’s also part of how we’re building a more sustainable and customer-focused operation – one that’s ready for the future of shipping.