The voice of IT Leadership in the commercial maritime industry
Editor’s Note
Today’s stories show how commercial discipline and digital capability are reshaping core shipping functions. From claims management depth in complex tanker trades to private cloud connectivity at sea, operational resilience is being reinforced at both the commercial and technical levels.
At the same time, AI driven forecasting, structured green fuel procurement and large scale battery retrofits point to a more practical phase of decarbonisation. The focus is shifting from ambition to execution across fleet operations.
Navigation, Autonomy & New Technologies
Marcura buys Shipdem to boost tanker claims
Chemical tanker demurrage remains one of the most technical and commercially sensitive areas in shipping. A new acquisition strengthens specialist capability in end to end claims handling, combining software driven efficiency with deep chemical trade expertise. For owners and managers exposed to complex charterparty disputes, this move signals a more structured approach to protecting cash flow and reducing friction.
Software, Big Data & IoT
Marlink and Microsoft tighten cloud links at sea
Fleet digitalisation depends on stable and secure access to cloud platforms, even far from terrestrial networks. A new integration enables private, dedicated connectivity to major cloud services, offering more predictable latency and stronger security than public internet routing. For ship managers standardising enterprise systems across global fleets, connectivity is now part of risk management.
Navigation, Autonomy & New Technologies
SeaCast brings AI precision to Med forecasts
A regional AI powered ocean model is delivering 15 day Mediterranean forecasts in seconds, with higher resolution and improved surface accuracy. By combining atmospheric and ocean data, it offers shipowners a longer and more precise planning window for routing and fuel decisions. Faster computation also opens the door to scenario testing and more informed operational choices.
Where operational excellence meets net zero ambition
Propulsion and future fuels
Seascale fuels Brave Pioneer with green methanol
Green methanol has been procured for a new dual fuel bulk carrier during its maiden voyage, coinciding with licensed methanol bunkering in Singapore. The transaction reflects a shift from pilot activity to structured, commercially managed supply of lower carbon fuels. For charterers and owners, disciplined procurement frameworks are becoming central to fuel transition strategy.
Propulsion and future fuels
Wasaline lifts Aurora Botnia battery power
A RoPax vessel has increased its battery capacity to 12.6 MWh, the largest installed on its vessel type, following sea trials and class approval. Executed largely during normal operations, the project demonstrates how hybrid upgrades can be integrated into existing propulsion systems. For operators under emissions pressure, retrofit pathways are becoming more defined and practical.
Friday’s Most Engaging Story
Privilège Marine makes SEA.AI standard
AI-assisted situational awareness is no longer an upgrade. A leading European catamaran builder has made machine vision and real-time optical detection standard across its entire range, reframing what owners should expect as core offshore equipment. For yacht managers and bluewater operators, the move speaks directly to risk mitigation, crew workload and operational confidence.