Western Bulk has partnered with ZeroNorth to implement an AI-driven voyage optimisation platform across its 120-vessel fleet. Following a rapid six-week global rollout, the partnership provides Western Bulk with real-time data and End-of-Voyage reporting, strengthening its asset-light operating model and supporting maritime decarbonisation.
Oslo, Norway | March 11, 2026 – Western Bulk, a prominent leader in the dry bulk sector, has officially entered into a strategic partnership with maritime technology firm ZeroNorth to deploy its advanced voyage optimisation platform across its entire commercially controlled fleet.
The agreement follows an intensive Request for Proposal (RFP) process and a comprehensive evaluation of the digital maritime landscape. The partnership is already fully operational, following an aggressive six-week global rollout across Western Bulk’s five international locations.
Optimising the Asset-Light Model
Western Bulk operates a highly dynamic, asset-light business model, managing a fleet of approximately 120 vessels. Because a significant portion of this fleet consists of single-trip charters, the company requires a digital infrastructure that allows for the rapid onboarding of vessels and near-instantaneous decision support.
ZeroNorth’s platform was selected for its ability to provide:
- Predictable Execution: Advanced fuel modelling that combines naval architecture principles with machine learning to go beyond simple weather-based routing.
- Agile Onboarding: The flexibility to route and monitor a constantly changing fleet with minimal notice.
- Post-Voyage Clarity: Direct access to End-of-Voyage (EOV) reporting, ensuring consistent insights into performance and emissions for every trip.
Technical Depth: Beyond Weather Routing
ZeroNorth’s Voyage Optimisation service is built on one of the industry’s most sophisticated data ecosystems. By integrating real-time weather forecasts (updated every six hours) with vessel-specific fuel consumption models, the platform allows Western Bulk’s operators to compare multiple route suggestions based on USD upside, speed, and CO2 impact.
Crucially for 2026 mandates, the system includes proactive compliance tools to monitor emissions in real-time, helping operators manage their standing against CII (Carbon Intensity Indicator) and EU ETS regulations.
Executive Commentary
The partnership marks a significant step in Western Bulk’s strategy to leverage high-quality data to improve net Time Charter (TC) margins and operational efficiency.
Maria Bruhn Dellgren, Head of Operations at Western Bulk:
“We’re very pleased to be live with ZeroNorth across our global operations. This partnership follows a long and careful decision process to ensure we selected a solution that truly fits our asset-light, fast-moving operating model. We look forward to developing the partnership further.”
Understanding Voyage Optimisation: Data-Driven Performance
In the modern maritime era, Voyage Optimisation has evolved from simple weather routing into a multi-variable science. It is the process of determining the most efficient speed, power settings, and path for a vessel by balancing three primary factors: safety, fuel economy, and timing. Achieving true optimisation requires a “digital twin” approach, integrating a vessel’s specific hull resistance and engine performance with high-resolution metocean data (wind, waves, and currents).
By utilizing Machine Learning (ML) to predict how a specific ship behaves under varying conditions, operators can move away from the inefficient “sail fast, then wait” model. Instead, they implement Just-in-Time (JIT) arrivals, allowing for “Constant Power Routing” that can reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 10% without compromising commercial schedules.
Company Profiles
About Western Bulk
Western Bulk is a leading global dry bulk operator with a commercially controlled fleet ranging from 100 to 150 vessels at any given time. The company specializes in matching cargo with vessels through a global commercial platform, focusing on Supramax, Ultramax, and Handysize segments. In 2026, the company continues to focus on asset-light growth and niche trading teams to drive margin quality.
About ZeroNorth
ZeroNorth is a maritime technology leader dedicated to digitalizing shipping for the climate. Its platform connects voyage planning, vessel operations, and bunkering to turn complex data into actionable insights. By optimizing thousands of voyages annually, ZeroNorth helps shipowners and charterers maximize profit while significantly reducing carbon emissions.
Source: ZeroNorth | Western Bulk