- Industry experts emphasize a gradual, infrastructure-backed approach to digitalization, prioritizing crew training and practical connectivity.
- Onboard experience gaps and outdated training highlight the disconnect between shore-based decision-makers and seafarers.
- Reliable internet access is seen as critical for communication, operational efficiency, and crew development.
- Despite technological progress, full digital adoption remains limited, with only a fraction of ships equipped with advanced connectivity systems.
Digital transformation in the maritime sector should be approached thoughtfully and incrementally, according to insights shared at a recent Inmarsat seminar titled ‘Thriving in the Digital Age.’ Experts at the event stressed that while adopting advanced technologies can bring significant advantages, shipping companies still relying on traditional practices should avoid abrupt shifts. Instead, they should prioritize crew training, foster better ship-to-shore collaboration, and ensure reliable connectivity to support a successful transition, as reported by FullAvanteNews.
Industry Leaders Emphasize Human-Centered, Gradual Transition
Held during Nor-Shipping in Oslo on June 4, 2025, the Inmarsat seminar presented a balanced view of maritime digitalization, highlighting both optimism and restraint. Experts agreed that while the industry is steadily advancing toward digital transformation, it remains far from its ultimate goals and must proceed with care. Amilia Busby, Third Engineer Officer on a semi-autonomous dredger, emphasized the importance of infrastructure and relevant training.
Captain Jorgen Grindevoll of Safenav echoed this concern, noting that many strategic decisions are made by individuals unfamiliar with life at sea. He called for a human-centered design of digital systems and highlighted the potential of basic tools like video conferencing—if supported by reliable connectivity—to enhance ship-office communication. Richard Buckley of 90POE stressed the industry’s slow pace, citing continued reliance on manual noon reports, but remained hopeful due to growing innovations. He advocated for redefining digitalization to include shipboard crew as active participants in fleet operations, made possible by high-bandwidth internet access.
Inmarsat’s Marco Cristoforo Camporeale pointed to rapidly increasing data traffic but noted that only 46 out of 169,000 registered ships use VSAT systems, signaling a major connectivity gap. He also cited a BIMCO report identifying a shortfall of 120,000 officers, aggravated by steady fleet growth. Automation could help address this issue, but only if vessels offer sufficient connectivity—something still lacking on many ships. Busby added that even learning about the seminar itself was made possible only because of recent access to Wi-Fi on board.
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