In this episode, Nick Chubb breaks the news that DNV is spinning off its Ship Manager software into a new standalone brand: CFARER. He and Raal Harris unpack the branding choice, Wilhelmsen’s minority stake, and what it signals about class societies doubling down on maritime software ventures.

The main discussion tackles a bold question: Is agentic AI the beginning of the end for SaaS? Raal introduces the argument that language-based AI agents could replace traditional user interfaces, challenging the CRUD foundation of most SaaS tools. Nick explores the business model implications, from the rise of pay-per-use AI agents to the possible return of software you “buy once.” Together, they weigh whether brands, UX, and trust might still give SaaS an edge, especially in conservative industries like shipping.

They also dig into how maritime software vendors should evolve, introducing the concept of Agent-Computer Interfaces (ACIs) and the importance of deep domain knowledge and process transformation over just new tech.

Nick then highlights a landmark UK Supreme Court ruling that may force ports to include Scope 3 emissions from visiting ships in their sustainability reporting. He explains why this precedent could reshape port planning and carbon accounting.

To wrap up, they spotlight two safety tech breakthroughs: Kaiko Systems, which helped TMS Cardiff Gas cut SIRE observations by 34%, and Zelim, whose AI-powered man-overboard detection system achieved 96.8% accuracy in trials. They also celebrate Scorpio Tankers' installation of the first centrifugal carbon capture system, and a circular economy pilot turning captured CO₂ into concrete ingredients.

In this episode, Nick Chubb breaks the news of his acquisition of Digital Ship, revealing plans to relaunch it under the new Antares Digital Group. He and Raal Harris discuss restoring the brand as a multimedia hub for maritime digitalisation and decarbonisation, separate from Thetius, but aligned in ambition.

They explore the concept of collaborative autonomy, drawing parallels between smart cities and maritime tech. Nick introduces VDES as the next evolution of AIS, enabling real-time sharing of vessel passage plans and opening the door to richer operational awareness, alongside new risks.

The discussion shifts to maritime’s data dilemma, from cybersecurity threats at ports to the cultural and commercial barriers to data sharing. Nick shares lessons from Thetius’ benchmarking work and how structure and clarity can unlock collaboration.

To close, they preview London International Shipping Week, where both are hosting events. Nick’s launching the Thetius 150, while Raal’s leading “Strictly Decarb.” They offer tips for navigating the packed LISW calendar, and avoiding London traffic.

In this episode, Nick Chubb and Raal Harris reflect on six years of Thetius, unpacking the role of luck, timing, and adaptability in building a sustainable maritime intelligence business. They trace Thetius’ evolution from a startup database of maritime innovators to a trusted research partner for shipowners, tech suppliers, and investors, with some acquisition success stories along the way.

The conversation then shifts to Orbit MI’s unexpected acquisition of stealth-mode AI startup Auqub, and what it signals about the arrival of agentic AI in maritime. Nick explains how the move resembles a Silicon Valley-style “acquihire” and suggests this may be the first clear play for AI agents capable of action, not just insight.

Next, they explore the concept of the superworker—a human-AI hybrid role evolving through four stages of automation. Drawing on Josh Bersin’s framework and new academic research, they discuss the creative lift AI can bring, the hidden risks of homogeneity, and the tension between productivity gains and organisational change.

Rounding out the episode, they swap AI coaching hacks, analogue oblique strategies, and some friendly disagreement over how politely one should speak to their GPT.