Shipshave’s leap: Pioneering sustainable seas with In-Transit Hull Cleaning

In the vast expanse of the maritime industry, where operational efficiency and environmental stewardship increasingly intersect, Shipshave’s In-Transit Hull Cleaning (ITCH) technology emerges as a beacon of innovation. This system is redefining the norms of hull maintenance, offering a proactive solution that seamlessly integrates into vessels’ voyages, thereby reducing fuel consumption, cutting emissions, minimizing downtime, and steering a course towards lower ETS cost and easier compliance with the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) regulations.

At the core of the ITCH technology is a state-of-the-art robotic device, securely tethered to the deck, which employs a sophisticated array of foils and brushes. These tools are meticulously engineered to apply hydrodynamic pressure against the hull, facilitating thorough cleaning operations while the ship is under way. The robot’s vertical positioning along the hull is autonomously adjusted through an advanced onboard control system, utilizing sensors and a rudder for precise navigation. Additionally, the incorporation of an onboard camera delivers feedback on the cleaning efficacy and hull condition, ensuring unparalleled maintenance standards.

The adoption trajectory of the ITCH system underscores its transformative potential. Leading shipowners, including industry giants such as Stolt Tankers and Klaveness Combination Carriers, have integrated this technology following successful trials that showcased its innovative capabilities. With a growing clientele that spans the spectrum of major shipping segments — bulk, tanker, ro-ro, container, and cruise — Shipshave is propelling a cross-industry shift towards more sustainable and efficient operational models.

The iterative development of the ITCH system, culminating in the release of ITCH v2.0, illustrates Shipshave’s unwavering commitment to technological advancement and user experience optimization. This latest iteration not only simplifies operations for end-users but also establishes ITCH as a versatile platform for future enhancements. Among these, the barnacle tool stands out for its efficacy in removing biofouling, a critical aspect of maintaining hull integrity and operational efficiency, further evidenced by the positive reception of demonstration videos on platforms like LinkedIn.

Shipshave’s clientele, a testament to the company’s innovative vision, reflects a forward-thinking ethos. By adopting the ITCH system, they not only achieve significant fuel savings but also contribute to the reduction of maritime emissions, aligning operational success with environmental responsibility. The economic and ecological benefits of this technology offer a compelling return on investment, sometimes materializing in mere weeks, setting a new benchmark in the industry for marrying profitability with planetary health.

At the core of the ITCH technology is a state-of-the-art robotic device, securely tethered to the deck, which employs a sophisticated array of foils and brushes, which applies hydrodynamic pressure against the hull, facilitating thorough cleaning operations while the ship is under way.

Amidst growing global attention to environmental impacts and regulatory compliance, Shipshave’s ITCH solution represents a pivotal advancement in maritime technology. It not only addresses current industry challenges but also anticipates future needs, ensuring readiness for an era where sustainability is paramount.

As Shipshave gears up for expansion, planning to double its workforce to catalyze the development of innovative technologies, it’s clear that the company is not just responding to industry trends but actively shaping the future of maritime operations. This growth strategy reflects the industry’s eagerness to embrace sustainable solutions that deliver both environmental and economic value.

Shipshave believes that its ITCH technology is not just a product but a paradigm shift in maritime maintenance, heralding a new era of sustainable shipping. By prioritizing efficiency, environmental integrity, and regulatory compliance, Shipshave is aiming to steer the global maritime industry towards a cleaner, more sustainable future, demonstrating that technological innovation can indeed go hand-in-hand with environmental stewardship and operational excellence.