AI platform improves South Australian port operations

Early deployment of Adapt indicates efficiency gains of up to 15% compared with traditional approaches, achieved through advanced forecasting that helps avoid overdredging.

Proactive maintenance helps safeguard channel access into ports and trade continuity, while intelligent scheduling lowers fuel consumption and carbon emissions.

“This project represents a step change in how Australia thinks about and manages maritime data,” said BMT regional business director for Asia-Pacific, Graeme Nayler.

“By combining AI and autonomy, Deep Blue is proving that data is not just collected. It is intelligent, active and transformative.”

In addition, BMT is working with Australia-based Ocius Technology, with its Bluebottle autonomous surface vessels recently demonstrating continuous remote data collection capabilities under real-world sea conditions in the Gippsland region.

BMT intends to combine these renewable-powered, autonomous vessels with Adapt to prove how AI-driven autonomy and scalable data fusion can reshape maritime and harbour operations.

South Australia’s Department of Infrastructure and Transport manages Port Adelaide, Port Lincoln and harbours in Thevenard, Augusta, Pirie, Narungga, Wallaroo and Giles.