The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) has published its liner shipping connectivity index (LSCI) for 2019, showing countries that have improved or worsened their positions in maritime transport networks.

Eckerö Linjen has chosen Telenor Maritime to provide high-speed internet access onboard its vessel, Eckerö, which operates between Grisslehamn, Sweden and the Åland islands situated between Sweden and Finland.

OneWeb has partnered with maritime industry players including Cobham and Intellian to bring increased bandwidth connectivity to the shipping industry.

Digitalisation can offer vessel operators a competitive edge but maritime companies need to be aware of the potential risks and to put in place effective back-up and security systems to ensure they reap the benefits, says Nabil Ben Soussia, vice president – maritime, IEC Telecom Group.

A new era of vessel operations requires relationships that generate value from end to end, writes Tim Bailey, EVP of Product, Marketing and Business Development, Speedcast

Digitalisation is having a profound impact on how shipowners and managers run their business and what they want from their technology partners. Perhaps the most important factor in designing a digital strategy is developing a clear understanding of your business goals.

Carole Plessy, Head of OneWeb’s Maritime Product Development, argues that reliable, flexible connectivity is required to harmonise the fragmented maritime supply chain and help the industry to attract investment and comply with tough new regulations.

Delivering Return on Investment is the ultimate goal for any sector looking to realise its digital ambitions, but the logistical and financial challenges of deploying consistent connectivity across entire fleets has been a significant stumbling block for the shipping industry. The sector has already invested substantially in digital products and services that have not always delivered, so it’s no great surprise that some are hesitant to invest further.

Marlink is launching a new Sealink Flex VSAT connectivity service that will provide high-speed bandwidth flexibility and options for seasonal users to meet variable service requirements and regional connectivity demands.

Israel-based XT Management operates a fleet of vessels, consisting mostly of container ships. With expansion plans, the company is the latest to partner with Navarino in order to enhance its vessels’ connectivity solutions. In this article, Avi Lavi, XT’s CIO, discusses the factors that resulted in selecting Navarino as technology partner.

The demand for connectivity in the expedition cruise market is growing rapidly, says satellite communications company Marlink who is today contracting twice the satellite capacity specifically for the expedition sector as it was 12 months ago.

Overseas Adventure Travel (O.A.T.) and Marlink have entered into an agreement that will see the installation of Marlink’s satellite voice and data connectivity services on-board five adventure cruise ships in the O.A.T. fleet.