July 16, 2025
A new report supported by Danelec has revealed that outdated data practices aboard ships may be costing the global fleet millions of dollars in fuel waste and missed efficiency gains.
The study, “From Data to Action”, shows that more than 70% of vessels still depend on once-a-day ’noon reports’ as their primary source of performance data, despite the availability of technology that enables second-by-second insights. The consequences of this ’data gap‘ are significant. One real-world case cited in the report found that a crew operating without real-time data overlooked an inefficiency that caused an unnecessary fuel burn worth $4,300 on a single voyage.
Over time, those costs multiply: the report estimates that continuous High-Frequency Data (HFD) can enable vessels to save up to 29.7 metric tons of fuel per month, equal to roughly 8,967 MT over the ship’s lifetime. At current fuel prices, this translates to several million dollars in savings, along with a substantial cut in emissions.
A single noon report might tell you what happened yesterday, but it can’t help you make smarter decisions in real time. If you only check your vessel’s vitals once every 24 hours, you’re operating with blind spots
… said Casper Jensen, CEO of Danelec.
Beyond cost, there’s a growing strategic imperative for adopting HFD. Charterers are increasingly demanding proof of efficient vessel performance. By relying solely on noon reports, shipowners risk losing their competitive edge. Fleets leveraging live data are better positioned to command higher time-charter rates and demonstrate transparency, both of which are key factors in reducing disputes and ensuring operational accountability.
Our research confirms what we’re already seeing across our customer base. High-Frequency Data doesn’t just enhance performance, it builds trust, reduces fuel waste, and unlocks new operational strategies. The transition is easier than many think, and the ROI is immediate
… explained Casper Jensen.
Recommendations
Based on the findings of the research, the following recommendations have been made to help industry stakeholders better understand and leverage HFD to enhance their competitive advantage:
#1 Identify the individual roles of low-frequency data (LFD) and high-frequency data HFD and integrate them for optimal results
The first recommendation made in the report is to clearly define the roles of LFD and HFD. Each has a distinct function. The goal should not be to replace LFD entirely with HFD, but to identify areas where LFD suffices and other areas that could benefit from deeper insights offered by HFD.
For instance, HFD sensor data supports real-time decision-making and performance optimisation. This helps to align data collection with operational and regulatory goals. It is indispensable for creating accurate performance models. On the other hand, while HFD offers superior precision and automation, LFD remains valuable as a supplementary tool. It can serve as a validation mechanism for addressing anomalies in HFD readings and act as a backup during HFD system failures.
By leveraging the strengths of both HFD and LFD, shipping companies can achieve a more thorough understanding of fuel consumption and engine performance. This approach emphasises the importance of integration rather than a full transition, ensuring each system is used to its fullest potential.
To progress towards HFD adoption, stakeholders should start by digitising aspects of their data analytics. There is no need to make everything HFD-driven immediately; instead, begin with small-scale implementations in targeted areas and expand as the benefits are seen.
#2 Maintain sensor health
While HFD has the potential to offer valuable insight, it requires healthy sensors to secure confidence in the accuracy of their output. It is therefore important to consider not just the initial investment into sensors and HFD systems, but the ongoing maintenance of them.
Advanced algorithms that detect malfunctions can be deployed to help identify and mitigate their residual impact on dependent machine-learning models.
#3 Select vendors that can handle multiple datatypes
When transitioning to HFD, owners and operators should seek technology partners that are flexible enough to work across both LFD and HFD. The transition to HFD will not happen overnight, and using both LFD and HFD is likely to provide the most comprehensive insight. Vendors must be able to integrate data from various sensor types and reporting tools, unifying it to present a coherent and complete view of the fleet.
Ideally, the vendor should adopt a data-agnostic approach, capable of handling different output formats to ensure seamless integration with diverse systems downstream of data collection. Choosing a vendor committed to breaking down data silos is essential.
Furthermore, the vendor should be willing to tailor their solutions to address your specific needs and challenges during the transition to HFD. When evaluating potential partners, ask if they are prepared to refine their offerings and services to make the process as smooth as possible.
Finally, vendors must deliver solutions that go beyond superficial fixes, enabling you to transform your operations and unlock long-term value.
#4 Focus on culture and change management
To maximise the value of HFD, having the right people, tools, and analytical skills is essential. A key conclusion from the research is that cultural change is critical to unlocking the full potential of HFD.
Organisational culture, defined as the sum of behaviours an organisation tolerates, plays a pivotal role in aligning perspectives and ensuring a consistent approach to challenges. A culture that embraces HFD should foster openness to new technologies, encourage data-driven decision-making, and prioritise continuous improvement.
Crew members and shore-based teams must receive proper training to interpret and act on HFD insights effectively, ensuring alignment in using data to enhance operational efficiency, safety, and overall performance.
A supportive culture not only helps overcome resistance to change but also smooths the integration of new systems, enabling long-term success for HFD initiatives. Regular check-ins to assess employee engagement, morale, and well-being can further strengthen this cultural shift by addressing concerns early and maintaining motivation.
