That’s not a star – it’s a satellite. Some people don’t like the idea of our skies being littered with tech hardware. But modern satellites have enabled ships to link to the internet, which can be lifesaving and valuable beyond measure.
Ships have had this ability since the 1990s when satellite internet first became available. At first, the speeds were slow, and the cost was high. Still, as technology has improved and the demand for internet connectivity has increased, the cost and speed of satellite internet have improved. Today, many ships, including cruise ships and cargo ships, have satellite internet connection that allows them to stay connected while at sea. Large shipping companies use satellite connections to monitor their fleets of ships, thus giving them vital data which can be used for many purposes. Ships also make use of GPS to set up location and plot a course. Obstacles and hazards are detected using radar, sonar, and other sensors. In addition, ships use weather monitoring systems and have systems that check the vessel’s structural integrity.
As much as this technology is invaluable to ships, it has also made the work of the marine insurance industry much more exact and insightful.
Satellite data invaluable to insurers
A ship’s internet connection can record data about the ship’s voyage, depending on the specific system and set up on the boat. For example, some ships may have sensors or tracking systems that collect data about the ship’s location, speed, and other factors and send this data back to shore via an internet connection. This information supplies insight into the ship’s progress, monitoring its performance, and optimizing routes. Additionally, some ships may have onboard systems that record data about the ship’s operations and maintenance, which can be transmitted to shore via the internet connection for analysis and reporting. However, the specific type of data collected and transmitted will depend on the particular system and set up on a ship and varies from one vessel to another.
Satellite data has become increasingly important in the marine insurance industry, allowing insurers to gain real-time information on the location and condition of insured vessels. This data is used to predict the likelihood of potential losses, such as collisions or adverse weather conditions, and to adjust premiums accordingly.
In addition, satellite data provides information about the performance of vessels, giving valuable insights into their efficiency and safety. This can help to name potential risks and allow insurers to take proactive measures to prevent losses.
Blockchain Technology
Blockchain technology is a decentralized digital ledger that allows for the secure and transparent tracking of transactions. It applies to a variety of industries, including the shipping industry, to record data about a ship’s voyage and other aspects of its operations.
For example, blockchain could record data about the ship’s location, cargo, and other relevant information at each port of call. This information could be entered into the blockchain by authorized parties, such as the ship’s crew or port authorities, and would be verifiable and unchangeable. This could help to improve the efficiency and transparency of shipping operations by providing a single, tamper-proof source of truth about a ship’s voyage and cargo.
Additionally, blockchain could be used to track the maintenance and repair of ships, as well as the certification and compliance of the vessel and its crew. This could result in improved safety and reduce the risk of accidents at sea.
Overall, while the use of blockchain in the shipping industry is still in the early stages of development, it can revolutionize the way that information is tracked and recorded in the sector, improving efficiency and transparency.
Blockchain technology is used by many marine insurers. It makes a secure and transparent platform for marine insurers to manage policies and claims. In addition, by using blockchain, insurers can ensure the accuracy and integrity of their data, reducing the risk of fraud and errors.
In addition, blockchain helps to streamline the claims process, enabling insurers to assess and pay out on claims quickly and efficiently. This improves customer satisfaction and reduces the time and cost associated with claims management.
These technological advancements of today give insurers tremendous insight into the voyages of vessels, which was not available to them decades ago. This has enabled insurers to have proof of events, resulting in more exact processes, such as:
Improved Risk Assessment
Technology has enabled insurers to better assess and understand the risks associated with marine operations. For example, insurers can use satellite data and predictive analytics to find areas where vessels are more likely to meet rough seas or other hazards. This aids insurers to price policies more accurately and supply coverage tailored to the specific risks faced by policyholders.
Technology plays a significant role in modern marine insurance, with satellite data and blockchain supplying new risk assessment and claims management opportunities.
Enhanced Underwriting Process
Technology has also made the underwriting process more efficient and exact. Insurers can use data analytics and automated underwriting systems to quickly assess the risk profile of a policyholder and determine the right coverage and premium. This can save time and reduce the risk of errors in the underwriting process.
Conclusion
Technology in marine insurance has enhanced the industry’s ability to assess and manage risks. This allows insurers to give more effective and efficient coverage to their clients.
As technology evolves incredibly fast, we will see even more innovation in the marine insurance sector. So, naturally, we expect to see more sparkling “stars” in our skies.