Products & services

GNV tests RINA’s machine learning and predictive models to optimize energy use on new vessel

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Products & services Products & services; Published: 18 March 2025 18 March 2025

GNV has chosen RINA’s SERTICA Performance for the latest addition to its fleet, the GNV Polaris, starting right away by testing the ship during its inaugural voyage from China to Italy. The tool for monitoring operational data on ships allows efficient energy consumption management and the optimization of performance. Thanks to the system, GNV has identified two optimal operating scenarios allowing for the lowest Specific Fuel Consumption, and a predictive model that serves as both a benchmark and a simulator for future operations.

This advanced system functions as a real-time data collector recording, through a network of sensors installed on board, key parameters such as fuel consumption and the power of diesel generators and engines. While its primary focus is on monitoring energy expenditure, the collected data allows for the calculation of the ship's actual efficiency, providing a comprehensive view of its operational performance to the crew onboard and the onshore management.

During the GNV Polaris’ voyage, various operational scenarios were simulated at different speeds and configurations, such as alternating the use of diesel generators and shaft generators, to identify the most efficient solutions in terms of fuel consumption. Subsequently, the operational setup for the Genoa-Palermo route was tested, verifying the consistency between the sea trial results and the forecasts. The analysis confirmed the system's accuracy, allowing for the definition of the optimal configuration to reduce fuel consumption.

The project also includes the development of predictive models using machine learning techniques. A physical model of the ship, trained with the collected data, achieved remarkable accuracy. Performance models have proven to be reliable tools for accurately estimating ship efficiency and can serve as benchmarks to assess performance degradation over time or as scenario simulators if the ship is deployed on a different route or schedule. This analysis may also indicate the need for retrofit actions, such as hull and propeller cleaning or engine maintenance.

Ivana Melillo, Energy Efficiency Director at GNV said “GNV is making significant strides in sustainable shipping with their latest initiatives. One of the most notable developments is the introduction of the GNV Polaris, the first of four new ships designed to enhance sustainability in maritime transport. The GNV Polaris boasts high environmental standards and can achieve over 30% fuel savings, resulting in a significant reduction in CO₂ emissions compared to the vessels currently in the fleet.

GNV plans to continue modernizing its fleet with more eco-friendly ships. This includes the introduction of new vessels that meet higher environmental standards, reducing emissions and improving fuel efficiency. GNV is exploring the use of alternative fuels such as liquefied natural gas (LNG) and biofuels. These fuels produce fewer emissions compared to traditional marine fuels.

We are investing in energy management systems that leverage digital technologies to optimize energy use on board its vessels. This helps in reducing emissions and improving overall sustainability.

These digitalization efforts are part of GNV's broader strategy to enhance operational efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and contribute to a more sustainable future in maritime transport.”

Lars Riisberg, Marine Digital Solutions Executive Director at RINA, said "The added value of SERTICA Performance lies in its ability to provide unparalleled data monitoring and analysis. By collecting data every five minutes and transmitting aggregates to shore, it enables detailed historical analysis. Its real-time dashboards, accessible remotely, support continuous monitoring and advanced analytics for internal assessments and fuel budget planning. A key advantage is its capability to set alerts for real-time sensor status monitoring, ensuring prompt anomaly detection. Additionally, SERTICA Performance tracks hull degradation and energy efficiency, comparing real-time performance against optimal conditions to drive informed decision-making."

Currently installed on over 800 ships, SERTICA Performance continues to expand with new implementations on vessels under construction.

Chantiers de l’Atlantique chooses NAPA for hull design

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Products & services Products & services; Published: 11 March 2025 11 March 2025

Chantiers de l’Atlantique, one of the largest shipyards in Europe, has entered a collaborative agreement with NAPA, a global provider of maritime software and digital services, to enhance the efficiency of its hull design process by co-developing advanced 3D software and digital workflows.

The two companies will collaborate to digitalize and enhance the detail design processes at Chantiers de l’Atlantique using NAPA Steel, the industry-leading 3D structural design tool. By integrating NAPA Steel with a software used in the production design stage, the combined solution will enable teams of engineers and naval architects to communicate swiftly and work together from the basic design stage, with hull design and outfitting, through to production design. This helps manage growing design complexity and allows Chantiers de l’Atlantique to meet customers’ needs for efficient, safe and innovative vessels.

This digital leap is driven by the recognition that no software alone can meet all the needs of the design process, from the basic to production design. Tackling this challenge, Chantiers de l’Atlantique adopted a pragmatic, ‘best-of-breed' approach. This is where enterprises can bring together different software to perform a particular function.

By bringing together engineers in charge of structures, propulsion, electrical, general arrangements and weight estimations, this collaboration helps ensure smooth coordination and optimal performance in shipbuilding projects where complex requirements and frequent changes demand agility and precision. Furthermore, through the interface between the NAPA 3D model and production design 3D model, the 3D models created by structural teams can be made available earlier to their colleagues in outfitting and production designs, thereby saving time and boosting efficiency.

The new deal follows a successful pilot that confirmed the potential of NAPA Steel to streamline ship design workflows, resulting in tangible time and cost savings. By strengthening the deployment of 3D-based design tools and integrated workflows, particularly in detail design, NAPA will help deliver greater efficiency, collaboration, and design quality.

The partnership with NAPA marks a new milestone in Chantiers de l'Atlantique's “digital shipyard” strategy. Headquartered in Saint-Nazaire, the shipyard specializes in cruise and navy ships and offshore installations.

Laurent Castaing, CEO at Chantiers de l’Atlantique, said: “This collaboration with NAPA helps us raise the bar in building the next generation of safer, smarter and more efficient vessels. As a world leader in highly advanced vessels, such as cruise and navy ships and offshore installations, managing design complexity is business critical. This requires efficient and streamlined workflows throughout a vessel’s design and production phases. Using agile tools and digital processes is at the heart of this, enabling our teams to take innovation to the next level and respond to our customers’ needs for efficient and future-proof designs.”

Mikko Kuosa, CEO at NAPA, said: “It has been an exciting journey with Chantiers de l’Atlantique to take their digital shipyard vision to new heights. Co-developing a solution that makes greater use of 3D-based digital tools and workflows is the way forward for ship design, unlocking a new level of collaboration and efficiency. Today this is more important than ever, at a time when there is growing demand for innovative vessels to support shipping’s energy transition. The digital era gives shipyards a solid foundation to innovate, while also enhancing their own productivity to maintain strong businesses.”

Anglo-Eastern expands presence in cruise sector with new workplace and executive appointments in Miami

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Products & services Products & services; Published: 05 March 2025 05 March 2025

Anglo-Eastern Univan Group (Anglo-Eastern), a global leader in independent ship management services, ihas announced further developments in its cruise and leisure business with a new workplace in Miami’s Blue Lagoon area and the joining of Neil McNeil as Managing Director of Anglo-Eastern Cruise Management International (AECMI) and Frits van der Werff as Vice President of Commercial, Cruise and Leisure Management.

Having acquired the Cruise Management International Group at the end of 2022, Anglo-Eastern Cruise Management Inc. (AECMI) and Anglo-Eastern Leisure Management (AELM) are now fully integrated into Anglo-Eastern’s eco-system, and the Group is now ready to drive the combined entity forward, having undergone advanced knowledge transfers across the business.

The relocation of its Miami office to a new, modern space near the Blue Lagoon area, just a short distance from Miami Airport is a strategic move that underscores Anglo-Eastern’s commitment to the cruise industry and its mission to better serve both existing and future clients in the Americas and across the globe.

The Miami office serves as a hub for Anglo-Eastern’s cruise and leisure management services, providing a collaborative environment that reflects the unified identity of Anglo-Eastern’s offices worldwide. This enhanced presence in Miami strengthens the company's commitment to delivering world-class, innovative services tailored to the unique needs of the cruise sector, with a focus on operational excellence, client satisfaction, and streamlined support for cruise line partners.

In addition to the new workspace in Miami, Anglo-Eastern is proud to announce two executive appointments within its cruise division.

Neil McNeil has recently been appointed as Managing Director at AECMI. Neil sailed professionally on ferries and roll-on/roll-off passenger vessels (ROPAX) since 1998 before transitioning to the cruise sector in 2006. With over two decades of leadership experience across multiple companies in the maritime and cruise sectors in the United States, Neil is well-positioned to lead Anglo-Eastern’s growing cruise management portfolio.

Frits van der Werff, a dynamic leader in the cruise industry, has been named Vice President of Commercial at Anglo-Eastern’s cruise and leisure division. Having held executive positions in both the cruise and hotel sectors, Frits brings nearly two decades of leadership experience blended from major cruise lines and hospitality brands, with a strong focus on cruise operations and client relationships. His addition to Anglo-Eastern is set to further elevate its position in the cruise sector as the industry continues to evolve.

Carsten Ostenfeldt, Chief Operating Officer at Anglo-Eastern, marked the announcement: “The strategic moves underscore our commitment to the cruise sector and further solidify Anglo-Eastern’s position as a trusted partner in providing world-class services with economies of scale to like-minded clients. We are confident that Anglo-Eastern is uniquely positioned to consistently expand and strengthen our presence in the cruise sector.”

Dietmar Wertanzl, President & CEO at AELM, shared his enthusiasm on the new force: “I'm delighted to work alongside Neil, whose extensive experience makes him an invaluable asset to the Anglo-Eastern team. I am also eager to collaborate with Frits in his new role. Having known Frits for quite some time, I am confident that he will bring valuable insights from his solid experience in the cruise industry, combined with his innovative approach in creating value for our clients.”

Registration opens for Cruise Ship Interiors Design Expo Americas

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Products & services Products & services; Published: 10 March 2025 10 March 2025

Cruise Ship Interiors Design Expo Americas (CSI Americas) sets the stage for a transformative year for the cruise ship interiors industry. Registration is now open for the upcoming edition of CSI Americas, which will take place at the Miami Beach Convention Center, 3 - 4 June. With the newbuild horizon now stretching the order book to 2036, the entire cruise ship interiors supply chain is activated and ready to create the ships of tomorrow.

The cruise industry order books are now bulging at the seams, having added an impressive 35 new ship orders by the close of 2024. Still only in the first quarter of 2025, Carnival Cruise Line has shaken up the industry by announcing their Dream Makers program, which will empower a select group of guests to have their say in everything from the entertainment down to the fabric selections.

With this burst of innovation and enterprise, the cruise lines, design studios, outfitters and suppliers are set to have an intense period of product research, trend investigation and project briefing. With a strong focus on connection and industry growth, CSI will feature a series of networking events designed to foster new relationships and business opportunities, from the popular Opening Party on 2 June, to the many intimate socials taking place throughout the two-day event. Last year, the sister show, CSI Europe, saw over 1000 one- to-one Speed Networking meetings take place. With the knowledge that everything is bigger than America, the organisers are challenging themselves, and their attendees, to beat this number at CSI Americas.

The content-led networking events will include Meet the Brands and Lunch & Learns, where attending suppliers get a unique insight into the branding, decision-making process and practicalities of the workflow of procurement and design professionals working for the cruise lines. Past participating brands include Royal Caribbean Group, Seabourn, Windstar Cruises and Celebrity Cruises. Meanwhile, designers and architects looking to bring the next trending project to their brand ahead of their competitors can attend the show-first game- show-style pitch event taking place onsite.

Interior design and hospitality is now infused with a taste of hi-tech futurism, and the cruise ship industry is tucking into its own slice of this pie. From the three-story kinetic sculpture on board Icon of the Seas, to the personalised experiences on board Princess Cruises’ vessels, guests are getting a taste of next gen hospitality. Cruise Xperience Innovation Summit will be launching this year, co-located with CSI. In addition to meeting exhibitors that specialise in everything from holographics to competitive socialising, visitors will attend the conference, which is curated to include the trends of today, tomorrow and beyond.

Hotel & Resort Design South (HRDS) will be co-located for the third year. Featuring exhibitors from across the Southern States and Central and South America, including Williams-Sonoma, AMP and Delta Faucet, past participating brands include hotel brands, including Sandals, Marriott International, IHG, Iberostar Hotels, Grupo Vidanta, Four Seasons, Accor and Hilton. Past participating procurement brands include The Parker Company, Avendra, Beyer Brown and Benjamin West. The exclusive HRDS conference track will explore the ever-evolving wellness trend, the value that brands can bring to their diverse locations and diving into conversions.

Summa Defence's target company Uudenkaupungin Työvene to build two battery-hybrid passenger vessels

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Products & services Products & services; Published: 26 February 2025 26 February 2025

Defense and security technology group Summa Defence's target company Uudenkaupungin Työvene has signed a contract to build two battery-hybrid passenger vessels for Swedish shipping company Torghatten AB.

The vessels will operate on Sweden's west coast between Strömstad and the Koster islands. The vessels will be based on Multi Maritime AS design.

The total contract value exceeds 20 million euros.

"Our target companies' order backlog is already 200 million euros, and this order further strengthens it. Our target companies possess tremendous expertise and potential, and together with Summa Defence, operations and production can be scaled up significantly," states Jussi Holopainen, CEO of Summa Defence.

The target companies of Summa Defence include Lännen Tractors, Aquamec, Uudenkaupungin Työvene, IntLog and Lightspace Technologies. These companies are expected to become subsidiaries of Summa Defence Group tentatively in April 2025 in the execution of the share exchange transactions announced on January 29, 2025.