NAVTOR secures Japan flag approval for Digital Logbooks

NAVTOR is continuing to build momentum for its ‘Digital Logbook revolution’, with the news that Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) has awarded full flag state approval for the innovative solution. Japan joins other leading shipping nations such as Panama, Liberia, Marshall Islands, Malta, Cyprus and Singapore, amongst others, in endorsing the IMO compliant offering for registered vessels.

 Amitabh Sankranti, Shipping Analytics Director, NAVTOR, calls the development “a major step forward in the acceptance, and awareness, of the huge advantages of moving log-keeping into the digital age.”

 Transforming tasks

 NAVTOR’s offering transforms what many see as an old-fashioned and inefficient practice. Instead of busy crewmembers having to handwrite submissions into standalone books – a time-consuming and error-prone process – shipping companies can take advantage of seamlessly connected digital logs (both on ship and shore), empowering data-driven decision making, easier compliance and powerful business efficiencies. Crewmembers, meanwhile, make entries with ease, using the secure solution on phones, tablets and computers.

 It’s a joined-up, transparent approach that has now rolled out to more than 1,000 vessels worldwide. Sankranti says approval from Japan will further accelerate adoption.

 A new wave of efficiency

 “Our customers in Japan and across Asia have been eagerly awaiting this flag approval, giving them the go ahead to embrace a revolution in log-keeping,” he comments. “Choosing pixels over paper takes an unloved format and transforms it into a powerful source of accurate, instant and integrated data, informing decisions that drive real operational and business efficiency. We strongly believe it’s an approach the whole industry is poised to adopt. To be blunt, it makes absolutely no sense to be left in the analogue age.”

 Sankranti adds: “I’d also like to note that this approval wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication of our Japan-based team, who worked closely with authorities to demonstrate complete regulatory compliance, while showcasing the practical benefits of using our Digital Logbooks onboard. They’re now looking forward to sharing the same insights with our valued customers in the region.”

 Early adoption

 On that note, NAVTOR has already reached agreement with major customer NYK Shipmanagement to transition its Japan-flagged vessels over to Digital Logbooks.

 Speaking about the move, Anubhav Garg, Managing Director & COO at NYKSM says: “We’ve been watching the development of Digital Logbooks for some time. The benefits are compelling and dovetail perfectly with our drive to enhance efficiency, ease compliance, build sustainability and provide optimal value for all our business stakeholders. We’re delighted that flag state approval has been forthcoming and look forward to realising the anticipated benefits across our advanced vessel fleet.”

 Alongside Digital Logbooks, NAVTOR offers a range of e-Navigation and performance monitoring and optimisation products and services, united by a secure, integrated digital ecosystem that connects vessel and shore-based teams. The Norwegian-headquartered company is a global leader in its segments, delivering innovations to over 18,000 vessels worldwide.