The maritime sector has spent years collecting more data, but operators still struggle to turn information into better decisions, lower emissions and safer operations.

As digital platforms mature and vessel systems become more connected, expectations are shifting from visibility alone to measurable operational outcomes. Simply having more information is no longer enough.

The maritime industry once thought the barrier was collecting data. The real challenge now is how consistently that information improves performance, safety and emissions outcomes.

— Arnel Murga

Collecting data is rarely the problem. Making it flow consistently between platforms without duplication, manual intervention or quality concerns remains a major hurdle for many fleet operators. DNV and Kongsberg Maritime are addressing that challenge through a standardised vessel data exchange that aims to improve reporting, assurance and day-to-day fleet management.

Container ship operators continue to face costly risks from excessive rolling, particularly as vessels operate across longer and more demanding trade routes. A new joint development project is evaluating how real-time vessel data and onboard decision support could help crews assess stability and respond before cargo incidents occur.

Shipowners are looking for practical ways to reduce administrative burden while improving the quality of operational information available across their organisations. Maranics has secured new investment as its platform expands across 150 vessels, processing more than 28,500 operational workflows each month through a single data pipeline.

Vehicle carriers trading in Europe face mounting environmental requirements while maintaining flexibility across diverse cargo operations. “K” Line's latest order combines LNG propulsion, methane reduction measures and specialised cargo handling capabilities, with expected CO₂ reductions of up to 30% compared with conventional vessels.

Decarbonisation investments succeed only when they support commercial performance, vessel availability and operational reliability. Volvo Penta's new IPS Hybrid system combines propulsion, batteries, energy management and vessel controls in one package designed for commercial operators balancing emissions targets with everyday operational demands.

Can existing ships play a larger role in decarbonisation? Seaspan and Hapag-Lloyd's first methanol conversion offers new insight into how retrofits could reduce emissions while extending vessel life and increasing fuel flexibility.