World News
New Marine Voyage Optimisation Software Launched
Applied Weather Technology Inc. (AWT) of California has launched a new version of its marine voyage optimisation system, Bon Voyage (BVS), with new safety features and enhanced weather and ocean data, the company said in an emailed press release.
"AWT's goal is to continuously innovate and provide our customers the best tools possible to achieve safe and fuel efficient voyages," said Haydn Jones, director of international operations.
Jones said ship operators are working to improve efficiency, but many solutions involve high capital investment or complicated installations.
"Voyage optimization based on present and forecast weather conditions on the other hand is a low investment approach which we believe makes it an essential tool for ship owners and operators alike."
The new version of the software, BVS 7.0, provides colour-enhanced maps and graphics so that captains can easily see potential problem areas, 16-day forecasts, pirate attack information, and real-time satellite imagery and high seas bulletins.
BVS 7.0 also offers customisable speed down and consumption curves to more accurately estimate fuel costs and voyage times, and it accounts for the cost differential of fuel in Emissions Control Areas (ECAs).
With bunker prices remaining an issue for many carriers, companies including Maersk Line and Ardmore Shipping have said they are using voyage optimisation software to cut fuel costs.
Key Bunker Prices More
| VLSFO | MGO | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $/mt | +/- | $/mt | +/- | |
| Singapore | 506.50 | 6.50 | 622.50 | 7.00 |
| Rotterdam | 460.00 | 1.50 | 630.00 | 8.50 |
| Houston | 472.50 | 0.50 | 625.00 | 1.50 |
| Fujairah | 501.00 | 6.00 | 721.00 | 8.00 |
| Global 20 Ports Average | 529.00 | 2.50 | 724.00 | 1.50 |
| Global 4 Ports Average | 485.00 | 3.50 | 649.50 | 5.00 |
| Global Average Bunker Price | 571.00 | 4.00 | 755.50 | 0.00 |
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