PAYS enables users to access global ENCs for use with on board ECDIS systems, while only paying for those that are actually used.
Peter Pran, Nautisk project manager, said: “Despite a positive market outlook, demands on shipowners and vessel operators to make cost savings and optimize operational efficiency are continuing to increase. We are working with our customers to find bespoke solutions that enable them to benefit fully from our global portfolio of ENCs through an on-demand system.
“Our PAYS solution gives both shore-based and on board teams access to any number of ENCs that may be required for one particular trading route. ENCs are downloaded onto the ECDIS for planning purposes and we then track the vessel. As the vessel sails through a particular area, the shipowner is charged for the use of those ENCs only,” he said.
As no hardware installations are required for use of the service, additional on board equipment is not required. The system is fully compliant with SOLAS regulation and take-up has so far been positive, Nautisk claimed.
“We know that where voyage planning is concerned, one size does not always fit all and many of our customers are choosing to combine PAYS with our pre-paid service, which means ENCs are available in advance.
“PAYS not only offers cost savings but it also saves time, as ENCs are available immediately, wherever a vessel is in the world. This is particularly important in emergency situations, for example, where a vessel may need to divert and use ENCs that would not normally be carried for that route,” Pran explained.
Neptune is a real-time vessel information service compatible with both bridge and shore-based systems. It works by combining electronic Notices from British Admiralty, the Norwegian Hydrographic Service and NOAA with an update service for ENC cells from the UKHO and PRIMAR.
Data is downloadable on demand and Neptune also includes marine management tools, digital IMO publications, reports, weather forecasting, routing, online news and information.