Oceanly, as a Silver Sponsor for SNIC 2024, leads a crucial discussion in the maritime industry: data ownership. In today’s world, where ship data drives efficiency, emissions control, and transparency, Oceanly advocates for shipowners’ rights to control their data. We spoke with Frederik Lerche-Tornø, Vice President and General Manager, to explore Oceanly’s approach to data ownership, their commitment to innovation, and the challenges shaping the maritime industry today.
Key topics covered:
- Shipowners’ right to data ownership
Oceanly’s strong stance on why shipowners must maintain control of their operational data and the industry implications of current practices. - The role of data in energy efficiency and sustainability
How Oceanly’s real-time data solutions help shipowners improve fuel efficiency, reduce emissions, and align with global sustainability goals. - Challenges in maritime IT and sustainable growth
Oceanly’s cautious growth strategy in the maritime IT space, balancing long-term sustainability with business expansion. - Greater transparency in data sharing
Oceanly’s efforts to promote fair and transparent data practices within the industry, ensuring shipowners can access their own data without penalties.
Federik, Oceanly has ambitious goals for innovation in the maritime industry. Can you share your vision for the Singapore market and the broader Southeast Asia region? How do your solutions contribute to the region’s green transition?
Frederik Lerche-Tornø: We are in the early stages of our expansion in Asia, but we already serve three large customers in Singapore. The first phase of expansion slowed down because of two factors. First, the European market reacted incredibly well, with 500 vessels now using our solutions. This success has kept us busy. Second, we’ve taken a cautious approach to growth. Maritime IT projects can be costly, so we aim for sustainable, long-term development.
As for the green transition, our solutions significantly improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions. The Oceanly Performance platform provides real-time data and analytics. This allows shipowners to monitor fuel consumption and optimize performance. By doing so, we help the maritime industry lower its environmental footprint, meet new regulations, and move toward decarbonization. With Southeast Asia playing a key role in global shipping, we are well-positioned to support the region’s sustainability goals.
Innovation is at the heart of Oceanly’s mission. How do you approach technological advancements in fleet performance, and what can we expect next in terms of energy efficiency and emissions control?
Frederik Lerche-Tornø: Our approach is to stay ahead of the curve. We focus on current needs but always anticipate future demands. When we developed the Oceanly Performance platform, we built it with the future in mind. For example, we invested early in a fully automated Data Collector. We spent over two years on research and development to create the most advanced solution for vessel performance data collection. Even when competitors relied on outdated Noon reports, we believed automation was the future. The market has since confirmed that.
Our Data Collector has set the industry standard. It’s been a key driver of our success, and we have never failed a Proof of Concept (POC) with any client. Moving forward, we will continue working closely with our clients. We believe the best innovations come from understanding real-world challenges. By partnering with our customers, we ensure our products meet both current and future needs. Our solutions optimize energy efficiency and emissions control today, while laying the groundwork for a more sustainable maritime industry tomorrow.
“Shipowners, charterers, or managers control a vessel’s operations—not equipment manufacturers. Therefore, the data generated by the vessel belongs to them.”
— Frederik Lerche-Tornø
Data ownership is a growing concern in the maritime sector. Oceanly has been vocal about this issue. What is the biggest challenge in ensuring shipowners retain ownership of their data, and why is this so important for the future of shipping?
Frederik Lerche-Tornø: Imagine buying an apartment, but being told you have to pay the builder to bring in your furniture. It’s absurd, yet that’s what some equipment manufacturers do. They charge shipowners to access operational data from their own vessels. This practice undermines fair competition. Additionally, it discourages smaller shipowners from embracing digitalization, which is essential for the industry’s future.
Shipowners, charterers, or managers control a vessel’s operations—not equipment manufacturers. Therefore, the data generated by the vessel belongs to them. At Oceanly, we fight for shipowners’ rights to control their data. We also advocate for fair and transparent practices. If necessary, we’ll take this issue to regulatory bodies.
Oceanly has condemned practices where equipment suppliers charge shipowners for accessing their own operational data. How can the industry move toward greater transparency in data sharing, and what role does Oceanly play in leading this change?
Frederik Lerche-Tornø: The industry is already moving toward greater transparency, and new regulations will only speed this up. With platforms like LinkedIn, outdated practices are exposed quickly. Regulators and stakeholders will scrutinize any new rules or actions. This visibility will lead to fewer loopholes.
At Oceanly, we believe transparency is crucial for the long-term sustainability of the maritime industry. Digitalization isn’t just about efficiency. It’s about reducing emissions, cutting fuel consumption, and protecting the planet. Practices that block these goals for profit must be challenged. We’re committed to leading the industry toward greater transparency in data sharing.
At SNIC 2024, Oceanly will address data ownership. What key questions or points do you hope to raise with stakeholders, and what actions do you believe are necessary to protect shipowners’ rights?
Frederik Lerche-Tornø: Shipowners and managers have strong representation through organizations like Intercargo, Intertanko, Intermanager, and BIMCO. If these associations unite and send a clear message to manufacturers—stating that attempts to encrypt, obscure, or withhold operational data will not be tolerated—it would have a powerful impact. That’s all that’s needed to protect shipowners’ rights. Data ownership must remain with those who operate and manage the vessels.
As Oceanly brings this vital discussion to SNIC 2024, we look forward to hearing more about their efforts to ensure sustainability and fair data sharing in the maritime sector.
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