In a dynamic kickoff meeting, the Maritime Data Methods for Safe Shipping (MaDaMe) project took its first major step toward revolutionizing maritime operations. The kickoff event witnessed insightful presentations from key stakeholders, shedding light on critical aspects of the project. 

 

Exploration of Essential Components: 

The kickoff featured illuminating presentations on essential components of the maritime ecosystem: 

  • S-124 by DMA (Danish Maritime Authority): Delving into the latest developments in navigational warnings, the Danish Maritime Authority provided valuable insights into S-124. 
  • S-125 by FTIA (Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency): The Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency shared perspectives on the evolving landscape of maritime information with a focus on S-125. 
  • S-212 by Fintraffic: Fintraffic presented on S-212, offering a glimpse into the advancements in navigational communication. 
  • MCP by DMC (Digital Maritime Consultancy): Digital Maritime Consultancy explored the Maritime Connectivity Platform (MCP), emphasizing its role in fostering digital collaboration. 
  • VDES by Sternula: Sternula provided a comprehensive overview of VDES (VHF Data Exchange System), a pivotal technology in maritime communication. 

  

Crucial Insights from Presentation Slides: 

The presentation slides divulged critical information crucial to the MaDaMe project: 

  • S-100 ECDIS Transition: Highlighting a significant transition, S-100 for ECDIS is believed to become an option starting January 1, 2026. The International Hydrographic Organization (IHO), representing its member states, is committed to ensuring adequate coverage of S-100 for the International Maritime Organization (IMO). 
  • S-124 Feature Catalogue Development: S-124, the feature catalogue, is currently in the test phase, with Version 2.0 set for release next year in 2024. 
  • Collaboration: Digital Incubator – Maritime Connectivity Platform: A collaborative effort with Australia, Canada, and the UK in the Digital Incubator signifies a global push for digital advancements in the maritime domain. 

  

Navigating the Waters: Statistics on Maritime Infrastructure: 

The kickoff event shared insightful statistics on the waterways of Finland, underlining the vast network crucial for maritime trade: 

  • 4,000 km of maritime trade routes 
  • 8,300 km of coastal routes 
  • 8,000 km of inland waterways 
  • 30 ports open year-round 
  • The 10 largest ports handle 80% of freight transport 
  • 25,600 maritime transport safety devices 

  

Group of Action (GoA) 1:1 Service Development: 

Led by FTIA, GoA 1:1 focuses on the development and deployment of services for different authorities. Key actions include identifying current systems, defining operational procedures, and validating user requirements. Participants, including FTIA, Novia, NIT, Fintraffic, Navsim, DFDS, SMA, and DMA, collaborate on prototyping and developing alternative solutions for digital information services. 

  

Navelink’s Role as an Associate Partner: 

As an associate partner, Navelink actively contributes to the deployment phase of GoA 1:1, showcasing its commitment to advancing maritime technology. 

 

The MaDaMe kickoff marks the initiation of a transformative journey, promising innovation, collaboration, and heightened safety in maritime operations. Read our previous post about the MaDaMe project for more information and stay tuned for more updates as MaDaMe charts new waters in the realm of maritime technology. 

 

Author: Milena Dalinaros