Italian ferry operator, GNV has selected RINA’s Sertica Performance for the latest addition to its fleet, ‘GNV Polaris’.
Tests were carried out during her inaugural voyage from China to Italy.
The tool for monitoring operational data on ships allows efficient energy consumption management and the optimisation of performance, RINA said.
GNV has identified two optimal operating scenarios using the system to allow for the lowest specific fuel consumption, and a predictive model that serves as both a benchmark and a simulator for future operations.
This system functions as a real-time data collector, through a network of sensors installed on board, recording key parameters, such as fuel consumption and the power of diesel generators and engines.
While its primary focus is on monitoring energy expenditure, the collected data allows for the calculation of the ship’s actual efficiency, providing a comprehensive view of its operational performance to the crew on board and the onshore management, RINA said.
During the ‘GNV Polaris’ maiden voyage, various operational scenarios were simulated at different speeds and configurations, such as alternating the use of diesel generators and shaft generators, to identify the most efficient solutions in terms of fuel consumption.
Subsequently, the operational setup for the Genoa/Palermo route was tested, verifying the consistency between the sea trial results and the forecasts.
The analysis confirmed the system’s accuracy, allowing for the definition of the optimal configuration to reduce fuel consumption, RINA claimed.
The project also includes the development of predictive models using machine learning techniques. A physical model of the ship, including the collected data, achieved remarkable accuracy.
Performance models have proven to be reliable tools for accurately estimating ship efficiency and can serve as benchmarks to assess performance degradation over time or as scenario simulators if the ship is deployed on a different route or schedule, RINA said.
This analysis may also indicate the need for maintenance, such as hull and propeller cleaning or engine maintenance.
Ivana Melillo, GNV’s Energy Efficiency Director, said “GNV is making significant strides in sustainable shipping with their latest initiatives. One of the most notable developments is the introduction of the ‘GNV Polaris’, the first of four new ships designed to enhance sustainability in maritime transport.
“The ‘GNV Polaris’ boasts high environmental standards and can achieve over 30% fuel savings, resulting in a significant reduction in CO₂ emissions compared to the vessels currently in the fleet.
“GNV plans to continue modernising its fleet with more eco-friendly ships. This includes the introduction of new vessels that meet higher environmental standards, reducing emissions and improving fuel efficiency.
“GNV is exploring the use of alternative fuels such as LNG and biofuels. These fuels produce fewer emissions compared to traditional marine fuels.
“We are investing in energy management systems that leverage digital technologies to optimise energy use on board its vessels. This helps in reducing emissions and improving overall sustainability.
“These digitalisation efforts are part of GNV’s broader strategy to enhance operational efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and contribute to a more sustainable future in maritime transport,” she said.
Lars Riisberg, RINA’s Marine Digital Solutions Executive Director, added “The added value of Sertica Performance lies in its ability to provide unparalleled data monitoring and analysis. By collecting data every five minutes and transmitting aggregates to shore, it enables detailed historical analysis.
“Its real-time dashboards, accessible remotely, support continuous monitoring and advanced analytics for internal assessments and fuel budget planning. A key advantage is its capability to set alerts for real-time sensor status monitoring, ensuring prompt anomaly detection.
“Additionally, Sertica Performance tracks hull degradation and energy efficiency, comparing real-time performance against optimal conditions to drive informed decision-making,” he claimed.
Currently installed on over 800 ships, Sertica Performance continues to expand with new implementations on vessels under construction, RINA said.
It has also been reported that Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) has ordered two new ropaxes—plus options for two more—from Guangzhou Shipyard International (GSI) in China for its subsidiary GNV.
The four new dual-fuel LNG vessels, set for delivery from 2027 onwards, will be sisterships to ‘GNV Virgo’ and ‘GNV Aurora’.
Each ropax will be 218 m long and nearly 30 m wide, with a gross tonnage of 52,300. They will have a maximum speed of 25 knots, will be fitted with over 420 cabins, the capacity to accommodate up to 1,785 pax, and 2,780 lane m of ro-ro cargo.
The ropaxes are expected to cost more than €150 mill each. The vessels will be financed by MSC and subsequently transferred to GNV under bareboat charter agreements, said a report in Ferry News.
