Improving the operational efficiency of voyages is a triple win. It reduces fuel consumption and costs, immediately lowers greenhouse gas emissions, and paves the way for the adoption of more expensive zero-emission fuels and technologies in the long run.

Yet, despite proven tools and well-understood optimisation levers, most maritime companies still capture only a fraction of the available value. This is not a technical issue, but a systemic one. A recent Global Maritime Forum report examined how challenges within leadership, organisational culture, and incentive structures are slowing industry-wide uptake of proven efficiency measures.

To unlock operational efficiency across the sector, three enablers must be in place:

1. Clear vision and strategic alignment: Efficiency must be framed as a strategic priority supported by key performance indicators that reflect operational reality
2. Cross-departmental collaboration: Chartering, operations, technical, and sustainability teams need to co-own the voyage rather than operate in silos
3. Cross-value-chain collaboration: Cargo owners, shipowners, ports, and terminals must align around shared expectations, data, and benefits.

Only when all three enablers operate together does operational efficiency go from a theoretical ambition to a measurable, actionable outcome. Read more in the report, ‘The human side of operational efficiency in shipping’. 👇