In this episode, Nick Chubb and Raal Harris unpack the findings of a new Thetius–RightShip report that reveals a major disconnect between shipowners and charterers on ESG performance. While around 70% of shipowners say they go above baseline compliance in safety, sustainability, and crew welfare, only 27% of charterers offer any commercial reward for doing so. They explore the implications for the market, discuss the launch of the Dry Bulk Centre of Excellence, and debate how a universal standard for “what good looks like” could help close the gap.
The discussion then turns to ABS’s acquisition of MetaShip from Orca Informatics, a move that could redefine maritime training through simulation and serious games. Raal explains the difference between gamification and immersive learning, while Nick argues that simulation should supplement, not replace, traditional sea time. Together, they dissect why cadet berth shortages remain a structural problem and why the industry must balance realism, safety, and cost in next-generation training.
Next, they dive into the autonomy revolution, starting with the MS Lumiere’s world-first dock-to-dock autonomous voyage in the Netherlands and Evergreen’s Evermax crossing the Pacific without human input. They debate what “manned autonomy” really means, how crew skills might erode under automation, and the human factors lessons learned from aviation.
From there, the conversation expands to shipyard robotics, as Samsung Heavy Industries partners with Rainbow Robotics to bring humanoid and quadruped robots into welding, painting, and inspection tasks. Nick and Raal discuss the implications of humanoid robots like Figure 3, capable of learning by watching humans, and question whether society is ready for a future where AI could replace up to half of global manual labour.
Finally, they reflect on the rise of AI-generated “work slop” meaningless machine output that mimics productivity but adds no value. Citing MIT Media Lab research showing 95% of companies have seen no measurable ROI from AI, they debate how automation may be both the problem and the solution.
The episode closes on a lighter note as Undocked crosses 1,000 monthly streams, thanks to growing listener engagement and debate.
Episode Partner
This episode was brought to you by Sedna, the intelligent email platform built for the shipping industry. Sedna helps commercial and operational teams cut through high-volume communication, turning emails into structured, auditable workflows that improve efficiency, compliance, and collaboration across fleets and offices.
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In this episode, Nick Chubb and Raal Harris are joined by Laurence Odfjell, Chairman of Odfjell SE, for a wide-ranging conversation on leadership, decarbonisation, and what it really takes to drive change in shipping.
Laurence reflects on his journey from architect and winemaker to shipowner, sharing how design thinking, pragmatism, and a deep respect for nature have shaped both his leadership style and Odfjell’s approach to sustainability. The discussion unpacks how a company founded in 1914 became one of the world’s leading chemical tanker operators — and how a culture of innovation and shared values continues to underpin its progress today.
The conversation turns to climate action and regulatory uncertainty following the recent deferral of the IMO’s Net Zero framework. Laurence shares his frustration with the postponement but argues that progress must continue regardless, underpinned by three principles: well-to-wake thinking, efficiency first, and fuel flexibility. He highlights Odfjell’s remarkable 54% reduction in carbon intensity since 2008 — achieved through operational discipline and smart investment rather than sacrifice.
They also explore the company’s near net-zero voyage of the Bow Olympus, a chemical tanker fitted with suction sails and powered by certified B100 biofuel. The voyage proved both the technical and economic viability of running ships on sustainable fuel, achieving near-zero emissions at just a 15% cost premium. Laurence credits the initiative to the company’s collaborative culture and a “common bottom line” where those making operational decisions are also accountable for the financial outcomes.
From there, the discussion moves into AI and innovation, as Laurence explains how artificial intelligence is already optimising weather routing and operational planning. He offers advice for maritime tech innovators: identify real problems, quantify the benefit, and build trust through data.
Finally, the conversation broadens to diversity, inclusion, and leadership. Laurence shares how Odfjell is actively recruiting women to sea to strengthen its future talent pipeline, and why diversity of gender, age, and thought is not just a moral imperative but a business advantage. His closing message to the industry is simple: act now with the tools we already have, because every year of delay costs more than we realise.
Episode Partner: OrbitMI
The maritime industry is changing fast, and OrbitMI is built for this new, connected era. Their platform connects your systems into one intelligent workflow, accessible anytime, anywhere. From compliance to reporting to voyage optimisation, OrbitMI turns data into actionable insight. No silos. No guesswork. Just smarter operations. Trusted globally, recognized as a maritime innovator, and proven to deliver. OrbitMI helps shipowners cut costs, reduce risk, and thrive in the Connected Maritime Era.
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In this episode, Nick Chubb and Raal Harris catch up after a hectic few weeks of travel to unpack the latest shifts shaping the maritime industry. Nick shares insights from the Kaleris APAC Customer Summit in Singapore, where terminal operators and carriers came together to discuss collaboration in the container ecosystem. They explore the challenges of just-in-time arrival, berth optimisation, and why the container sector — despite being the backbone of global trade — still struggles with basic communication between terminals and carriers.
The conversation then turns to AI and competence, as Nick recounts a lively debate he took part in at the Saudi Maritime and Logistics Congress: Will artificial intelligence lead to less competence in the maritime industry? Together, they discuss what competence really means in a technology-augmented world, how AI can become an in-work enablement tool rather than a replacement, and why refusing to adapt could be the greater risk to future competence.
They also touch on AI’s organisational impact, from hiring freezes and shifting budgets to productivity expectations, and even Jeff Bezos’ vision for data centres in space. Raal connects these trends to the wider shifts in digital infrastructure, geopolitics, and sustainability, including how cloud capacity and satellite connectivity may reshape maritime operations.
From there, the discussion moves to training, storytelling, and transformation, as Raal reflects on his two-decade journey from Videotel to Ocean Technologies Group, and the launch of his new consultancy, Pitch Frame. The pair explore how brand, education, and enablement intersect, and why many groundbreaking maritime ideas fail not from poor technology, but from weak communication and internal alignment.
The episode closes with reflections from Maritime Cyprus, where uncertainty still surrounds future fuels and regulatory clarity. With the upcoming MEPC vote at the IMO, Nick and Raal debate whether the industry is ready to trade ambiguity for action — or risk losing momentum to regional fragmentation.
Episode Partner
This episode is brought to you by OrbitMI. In shipping, fuel is money, and OrbitMI helps you use less of it. Their optimisation solutions improve routing, speed management, and emissions performance, helping operators cut costs while staying compliant and sustainable.
Built on AI and made for the Connected Maritime Era, Orbit delivers smarter voyages, stronger margins, and greener operations.
Learn more at orbitmi.com/connected-maritime-era
In this episode, Nick Chubb and Raal Harris are joined by Bjorn Højgaard, CEO of Anglo-Eastern, to explore how leadership, technology, and people are shaping the next era of ship management.
Bjorn shares his journey from seafarer to CEO. He reflects on how experience at sea has influenced his leadership style, from building trust and accountability to balancing empathy with operational discipline. The discussion examines how the role of the ship manager is evolving from a service provider to a strategic partner in decarbonisation, digitalisation, and talent development.
They dive into how AI and digital tools are transforming fleet operations, helping teams move from reactive management to predictive decision-making. Bjorn explains Anglo-Eastern’s approach to digital transformation, using technology to empower people, strengthen safety, and simplify complex workflows rather than replace human judgment.
The conversation also tackles the future of crewing, from tackling global talent shortages to redefining training and career development. Bjorn highlights how culture and purpose are key to attracting the next generation of seafarers and how leaders can align people, process, and technology for sustainable performance.
Bjorn's book, Balance: Beyond Binary, can be purchased on Amazon.
Episode Partner
This episode was brought to you by Sedna, the intelligent email platform built for the shipping industry. Sedna turns high-volume communication into structured, shared workflows, helping teams reduce noise, maintain compliance, and make faster, better-informed decisions.
Discover how Sedna is transforming maritime communication at sedna.com.
In this episode, Nick Chubb and Raal Harris are joined by Bill Dobie, Founder and CEO of Sedna, to discuss the changing shape of maritime software and the forces driving consolidation across the industry. Bill shares his journey from building solutions to streamline shipping communications to leading one of the sector’s most recognisable digital platforms.
The conversation dives into the challenges and opportunities of digital workflows, exploring how tools like Sedna transform communication, collaboration, and decision-making for shipping companies. Bill reflects on lessons from scaling a technology business in a conservative industry, the importance of user-centred design, and why integration remains one of the hardest problems to solve.
They also examine industry consolidation, from private equity investments to M&A strategies and debate whether bigger platforms can deliver more value, or risk becoming too complex for end users. Bill stresses the need for maritime tech companies to stay focused on solving real problems rather than chasing trends, and highlights why AI and automation will be foundational in the next wave of shipping software.
Finally, Nick, Raal, and Bill consider the future of maritime software, discussing the cultural and organisational shifts needed for adoption, the role of patient capital, and what long-term success looks like in a cyclical and fragmented market.
Episode Partner
Staying compliant in today’s maritime industry is harder than ever. CII, EU ETS, FuelEU; the list keeps growing. That’s where OrbitMI comes in. Their Orbit Reporter solution automates regulatory reporting, ensures data accuracy, and keeps you ahead of the curve. No more errors, no more stress, just connected compliance. Recognised as one of the 150 Most Innovative Companies in Maritime for four years running, OrbitMI is trusted by shipowners worldwide.
Ready to turn compliance into a competitive advantage? Visit https://www.orbitmi.com/connected-maritime-era and get started today.
In this episode, Nick Chubb and Raal Harris sit down with Manish Singh to explore his journey through the maritime industry, from a third-generation seafaring background to leadership roles shaping some of the sector’s most influential businesses. They discuss the transformative changes driven by digitalization and decarbonization, and the role of private equity in providing not just capital but also strategic direction for maritime growth.
The conversation unpacks what it takes to build successful maritime technology companies, the challenges of integration, and why a clear and compelling purpose is essential for long-term success. Manish emphasizes the importance of convergence and collaboration across the industry, while also sharing insights on how AI is becoming foundational to maritime operations and decision-making.
Looking more broadly, they reflect on the cyclical nature of the maritime market, the need to embrace volatility in planning, and why patient capital is vital for fostering resilience and sustainable growth in an industry defined by long investment horizons.
Learn more about Manish:
In this “LISW Hangover Edition,” Nick Chubb and Raal Harris reflect on a packed London International Shipping Week. Fresh from the gala dinners and 350+ events spread across the city, they share what stood out most in conversations with industry leaders.
Three themes dominate their recap. First is artificial intelligence — so pervasive it cropped up in almost every panel, regardless of the official topic. Second is alternative fuels and propulsion, from the UK’s emerging role as a hub for wind power exports to ongoing debates around LNG, methanol, ammonia, and the pathway to nuclear. Third is the geopolitical mood, where optimism and pessimism seemed equally strong, and where global fragmentation of regulation looms large.
They also discuss creative event formats like “Strictly Decarb,” where hardware, operational excellence, and business model innovation competed head-to-head — showing that shipping has plenty of practical levers to pull on decarbonisation today. Nick highlights the first meaningful UK funding commitment of £1.1 billion toward emission reduction technologies, while Raal emphasises the need to include vendors much earlier in the innovation process.
The conversation then turns to certainty in regulation. With MEPC’s decisive October vote approaching, both note IMO Secretary General Arsenio Dominguez’s high-conviction leadership and its role in giving the industry something to galvanise around. They also cover unintended consequences of EU ETS, the risk of fragmented standards, and the urgent need for globally aligned approaches.
Finally, Nick and Raal preview a series of in-depth interviews recorded in the run up to LISW with leaders including Bjorn Horgaad (Anglo-Eastern), Bill Dobie (Sedna), Torsten Pedersen (Seaspan), Manish Singh (Maris Investments), and Heather Combs (Ripple Operations). From philosophy and leadership to AI adoption, business transformation, M&A, and crewing tech, these conversations promise to open new perspectives in the weeks ahead.
In this episode, Nick Chubb and Raal Harris open with breaking news: SpaceX has spent $17 billion acquiring spectrum to power its next-generation Starlink direct-to-cell service. They explore what this means for mobile connectivity at sea, the race to eliminate dead zones, and why direct-to-handset satellite services could reshape how crews stay connected.
From there, they dive into a legal shocker — a WhatsApp exchange that ended up forming a binding contract worth £248,000. The conversation unpacks how chat messages and even emojis can be legally enforceable, raising major risks for broking, crewing, and commercial negotiations that increasingly happen off-email.
The focus then shifts to Pemira’s minority investment in Rightship. Nick and Raal examine why private equity interest in maritime is rarely just about capital, and what Pemira’s technology and M&A expertise could mean for consolidation in vessel quality and chartering intelligence. They also discuss Rightship’s new Fleet Focus product, which uses AI to turn port state control and inspection data into actionable insights for owners and operators.
The discussion expands into maritime training, benchmarking, and the challenge of proving ROI. They highlight how AI can ease the heavy lift of analysing inspection data, why experiential learning often goes uncaptured, and what competency management can reveal about operator quality.
Nick then pitches three “Alpha School-inspired” business ideas for maritime: personalised onboarding bots for new crew, a compressed “one-hour Blue MBA,” and tools to capture retiring seafarers’ expertise before it walks out the door. Raal weighs the pros and cons of each, sparking a lively debate on knowledge drain, learning culture, and experiential risk management.
Finally, they reflect on London International Shipping Week, reveal their decision to continue Undocked beyond the first 12 episodes, and remind listeners to clear their “debt” by subscribing, rating, and reviewing the show.
In this episode, Nick Chubb and Raal Harris start with a rain-soaked trip to see the Galleon Andalucía before diving into a major announcement from ABB and Wallenius Marine. Their new “Oversea” fleet optimisation service prompts a discussion on the rise of shore-based digital control rooms, the balance between master’s authority and shore-side decision support, and whether responsibility without empowerment risks pushing seafarers to burnout.
The conversation then shifts to the high costs of maritime data collection and why so many companies are “drowning in data but starved of insight.” From Microsoft’s quiet removal of enterprise volume discounts to the dangers of software renewal inertia, they highlight lessons for both buyers and vendors on pricing models, procurement strategy, and avoiding hidden cost drags.
Ammonia takes centre stage with Japan delivering the world’s first commercial dual-fuel ammonia engine. Nick and Raal explore the Just Transition Task Force’s work on global training standards, the urgent need to prepare crews, and how simulation technology, from full bridge setups to cloud-based VR like Kilo Solutions’ VASCO, is reshaping maritime learning. They debate the slow pace of STCW reform, the role of class and flag, and why outcome-focused training matters more than classroom hours.
To wrap up, they touch on ChatGPT’s new $300k+ content strategist role, sparking reflections on why human creativity remains vital even in an AI-driven age. They also tease upcoming guest interviews that will soon join the Undocked feed.
In this episode, Nick Chubb and Raal Harris dig into the findings of a new Thetius research report commissioned by Marcura, which shows that while 81% of maritime organisations are piloting AI, only 11% have policies in place, and just 23% are training their people. They debate whether AI deserves its own strategy or should simply sit inside a broader technology plan, with Nick introducing the Thetius ADAPT framework as a way for leaders to cut through the hype and move beyond “pilot purgatory.”
They then turn to OrbitMI’s back-to-back acquisitions of Auqub and Galeforce, exploring why pairing agentic AI software with a traditional weather routing advisory business could be a smart hybrid play. The discussion unpacks how human expertise and automated platforms can coexist, and why trust and verification matter more in AI-driven systems than in traditional SaaS.
A major cyberattack on Iran’s shipping industry prompts a conversation on satcom vulnerabilities, IT/OT segregation, and why drills and resilience testing need to become the norm. From there, Nick and Raal dive into the human side of maritime, discussing seafarer isolation in the digital age, the double-edged sword of connectivity, and the undervalued role of emotional intelligence in crew management and leadership.
Looking ahead to London International Shipping Week, they share what’s on their agendas — from the Thetius Top 150 launch to panels on digitalisation, AI, and decarbonisation. They also highlight Marine Media Enterprises’ new Donate & Train initiative, blending e-learning with charitable giving.
To wrap up, a light-hearted debate over Elon Musk’s latest venture — “Macro Hard,” an AI-driven challenger to Microsoft — sparks reflections on branding, competition, and whether the tech billionaire can really pull it off.
In this episode, Nick Chubb brings Raal Harris up to speed on a wave of recent maritime tech M&A deals. They start with Marcura’s acquisition of Brightwell Navigator, unpacking why cruise is such a hard market to crack and how crew payments and procurement could open doors for cross-sell. The pair debate whether cross-selling in shipping ever really works, given entrenched silos and slow decision cycles.
They then turn to STAR Information Systems’ acquisition of Sharecat, exploring the importance of clean, enriched data for maintenance and asset management, and why “garbage in, garbage out” matters more than ever in a post-AI world. Polestar’s move into marine insurance with Clearwater Dynamics prompts a discussion on risk visibility, while Xeneta’s purchase of eeSea sparks a deep dive into enforced transparency, supply chain resilience, and why schedule reliability data is becoming as critical as freight rates.
Nick and Raal also dissect the fast-changing satcoms market, where Project Kuiper’s arrival has already forced Starlink into a price rethink. They consider what happens when bandwidth at sea becomes a commodity, and whether Elon Musk’s dominance will hold against Jeff Bezos’ Amazon-backed play.
To wrap up, they spotlight a first-of-its-kind green ammonia bunkering operation in China. With early tests showing up to 95% emissions reduction, they weigh the fuel’s promise against its challenges and scalability.
In this episode, Nick Chubb breaks the news that DNV is spinning off its Ship Manager software into a new standalone brand: CFARER. He and Raal Harris unpack the branding choice, Wilhelmsen’s minority stake, and what it signals about class societies doubling down on maritime software ventures.
The main discussion tackles a bold question: Is agentic AI the beginning of the end for SaaS? Raal introduces the argument that language-based AI agents could replace traditional user interfaces, challenging the CRUD foundation of most SaaS tools. Nick explores the business model implications, from the rise of pay-per-use AI agents to the possible return of software you “buy once.” Together, they weigh whether brands, UX, and trust might still give SaaS an edge, especially in conservative industries like shipping.
They also dig into how maritime software vendors should evolve, introducing the concept of Agent-Computer Interfaces (ACIs) and the importance of deep domain knowledge and process transformation over just new tech.
Nick then highlights a landmark UK Supreme Court ruling that may force ports to include Scope 3 emissions from visiting ships in their sustainability reporting. He explains why this precedent could reshape port planning and carbon accounting.
To wrap up, they spotlight two safety tech breakthroughs: Kaiko Systems, which helped TMS Cardiff Gas cut SIRE observations by 34%, and Zelim, whose AI-powered man-overboard detection system achieved 96.8% accuracy in trials. They also celebrate Scorpio Tankers' installation of the first centrifugal carbon capture system, and a circular economy pilot turning captured CO₂ into concrete ingredients.
In this episode, Nick Chubb breaks the news of his acquisition of Digital Ship, revealing plans to relaunch it under the new Antares Digital Group. He and Raal Harris discuss restoring the brand as a multimedia hub for maritime digitalisation and decarbonisation, separate from Thetius, but aligned in ambition.
They explore the concept of collaborative autonomy, drawing parallels between smart cities and maritime tech. Nick introduces VDES as the next evolution of AIS, enabling real-time sharing of vessel passage plans and opening the door to richer operational awareness, alongside new risks.
The discussion shifts to maritime’s data dilemma, from cybersecurity threats at ports to the cultural and commercial barriers to data sharing. Nick shares lessons from Thetius’ benchmarking work and how structure and clarity can unlock collaboration.
To close, they preview London International Shipping Week, where both are hosting events. Nick’s launching the Thetius 150, while Raal’s leading “Strictly Decarb.” They offer tips for navigating the packed LISW calendar, and avoiding London traffic.
In this episode, Nick Chubb and Raal Harris reflect on six years of Thetius, unpacking the role of luck, timing, and adaptability in building a sustainable maritime intelligence business. They trace Thetius’ evolution from a startup database of maritime innovators to a trusted research partner for shipowners, tech suppliers, and investors, with some acquisition success stories along the way.
The conversation then shifts to Orbit MI’s unexpected acquisition of stealth-mode AI startup Auqub, and what it signals about the arrival of agentic AI in maritime. Nick explains how the move resembles a Silicon Valley-style “acquihire” and suggests this may be the first clear play for AI agents capable of action, not just insight.
Next, they explore the concept of the superworker—a human-AI hybrid role evolving through four stages of automation. Drawing on Josh Bersin’s framework and new academic research, they discuss the creative lift AI can bring, the hidden risks of homogeneity, and the tension between productivity gains and organisational change.
Rounding out the episode, they swap AI coaching hacks, analogue oblique strategies, and some friendly disagreement over how politely one should speak to their GPT.
In this episode, Nick Chubb and Raal Harris unpack theDock’s 30 Under 30 Maritime Technology Companies list, spotlighting trends in European innovation and the dominance of chartering-focused software. They break the news of Sedna’s acquisition of Dataloy, exploring how the move could create a voyage management superapp and reshape email-driven operations.
The conversation turns to the Allianz Safety and Shipping Review, highlighting a record low in vessel losses but rising anxiety around geopolitical risks, including the recent sinking of the Magic Seas. They discuss the sharp rise in war risk premiums, the growing impact of the “dark fleet,” and the need for holistic responses to global shipping pressures.
Rounding out the episode, they revisit nuclear-powered shipping, examining the financial and regulatory barriers to small modular reactors, and draw parallels with challenges in carbon capture and waste logistics. From inboxes to innovation pathways, this is a wide-ranging look at the forces reshaping the maritime sector.
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In this episode, Raal Harris and Nick Chubb reflect on the evolution of tanker inspections under OCIMF’s SIRE 2.0, praising the human-centric transformation led by Karen Davis. They discuss the rise of ammonia-fuelled bulk carriers, highlighting projects by BHP and Amon Maritime and the growing role of state support and route specialisation in decarbonisation. The conversation moves into cybersecurity, exploring a phishing case that cost £60k, the importance of regular drills, and the potential impact of connectivity on vessel seaworthiness. They wrap up with a look at the AI “gold rush” and how companies like Sedna are integrating large language models directly into maritime workflows.
In this episode, Raal Harris and Nick Chubb discuss the significance of Day of the Seafarer, highlighting the challenges faced by seafarers, including regulatory burdens and the need for better safety culture. They explore NYK's acquisition of Kadmos and its implications for the maritime industry, as well as the role of technology in enhancing safety and welfare. The conversation also touches on public engagement initiatives like MSC's Yellow Festival and the environmental impact of AI in maritime operations.
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In this episode, Raal Harris and Nick Chubb explore various themes surrounding AI, its impact on the shipping industry, and the future of creativity. They discuss the importance of governance in AI usage, legal challenges related to copyright, and the evolving landscape of maritime investments. The conversation underscores the importance of a patient approach to innovation and the significance of individual vision in a world increasingly shaped by AI.
In this episode of the Undocked podcast, hosts Raal Harris and Nick Chubb discuss their experiences at Norrshipping, focusing on the themes of decarbonisation, innovations in wind power, the role of AI in the maritime industry, and the exploration of alternative fuels, including nuclear energy.
