The hard part of shipping's net-zero journey was never setting the target. The hard part is making investment decisions when fuel pathways, regulation and commercial realities remain uncertain.

At BISC 2026, industry leaders made it clear that commitment to decarbonisation remains strong, but clarity is still in short supply, even as one estimate suggests 75% of the global fleet has yet to take action on fuel consumption.

In that environment, trusted data and operational insight become increasingly valuable. The less certainty the industry has around fuels and regulation, the more important informed decision-making becomes

— Arnel Murga

KR and Microsoft Korea are taking AI deeper into classification, vessel data management and ship design support. The partnership shows how digital tools are beginning to reshape compliance, technical services and fleet decision-making.

As digitalisation accelerates, shipowners must decide whether to simplify their technology landscape around an integrated platform or manage a broader ecosystem of specialised providers.

At the Digital Ship Summit 2026, four maritime technology leaders will debate this question and examine vendor lock-in, integration challenges, data quality, governance, scalability and the practical realities of managing digital infrastructure across a modern fleet.

Panelists
• David Edwards, Navigator Gas
• Tabitha Logan, Cetus Maritime
• Nikolas Sarantos, Sea Hawk Maritime S.A
• Panagiotis Gkotsis, Dorian LPG

Whether you're shaping your organisation's technology strategy or developing solutions for the maritime sector, this session will offer valuable real-world perspectives on the future of fleet IT architecture.

🎟 Secure your delegate pass today.

DNV has joined DCSA+, bringing thousands of vessels and more than 90 data partners into efforts to improve maritime data exchange. The collaboration examines why trusted, standardised data matters for emissions reporting and supply chain efficiency.

Nigeria and The Gambia are working together to strengthen digital seafarer certification and improve compliance. The initiative highlights the growing role of secure digital records in crew management and international recognition.

Shipping leaders remain committed to net zero, but uncertainty around fuels, regulation and investment is complicating major decisions. Executives from Odfjell, Höegh Autoliners and SeaKapital discuss what the industry still needs to move forward with confidence.

EXMAR's ANTWERPEN brings ammonia propulsion into commercial ocean-going service and offers shipowners an early benchmark for future fuel decisions. With emissions reductions of up to 90% claimed, the project puts ammonia's commercial potential under the spotlight.

A new Approval in Principle for a Rotor Sail-equipped MR tanker design could reduce uncertainty for owners considering wind-assisted propulsion. The project addresses practical installation and safety challenges while providing a verified route towards improved efficiency and emissions performance.