For decades, Norwegian governments have aspired to shift more cargo from crowded roads to the open sea. Now, a team of Norwegian entrepreneurs may have cracked the code with their innovative platform, Keelspot - a digital marketplace that connects cargo with available vessels in real-time. Think of it as “Tinder for Vessels” or “Uber for the Seas,” seamlessly matching freight with vessels that have unused capacity.
The Future of Coastal Shipping
Keelspot’s CEO, Svein Arild Vatsoe, brings nearly 20 years of experience as a captain to the helm. Having witnessed the inefficiencies of the maritime industry firsthand, Vatsø is on a mission to transform the way goods are transported along Europe’s coastlines. "Every day, thousands of ships travel the European coast with 30-40% of their capacity unused. This represents a massive missed opportunity to shift freight from congested roads to the more sustainable option—the sea," Vatsoe explains.
Keelspot’s platform is designed to change this. It simplifies the process of finding and booking vessel space, allowing cargo owners to connect with ships traveling the same routes, making sea transport more accessible, efficient, and eco-friendly than ever.
Modernizing a Traditional Industry
The shipping industry, traditionally slow to adopt new technologies, is beginning to embrace digital transformation. Vatsø is optimistic about the change.
We’re seeing a new generation of decision-makers who recognize the environmental and logistical advantages of sea transport. But until now, there hasn’t been a simple, efficient way to match freight with available vessels.
Keelspot fills this gap by providing a streamlined platform that benefits both cargo owners and ship operators. The platform not only enhances operational efficiency but also supports the industry's shift towards greener practices.
Easing the Burden on Roads—and the Environment
With road networks under increasing strain and traffic volumes expected to rise, the need for alternative transportation methods is more pressing than ever. “Even the trucking industry is starting to look at the sea as a viable option to offload some of its growing volume,” says Vatsø. By facilitating sea transport, Keelspot is helping to reduce road congestion and lower carbon emissions, contributing to broader sustainability goals.
A Vision for a Greener Future
Transferring more cargo from road to sea has long been a governmental objective, and Keelspot’s solution aligns perfectly with these ambitions. As national transport plans focus on reducing emissions across all sectors, Keelspot is poised to play a crucial role in making maritime logistics more efficient and environmentally friendly.
The Norwegian Coastal Administration supports initiatives like Keelspot, emphasizing that digitalization and better access to shipping information can significantly enhance coastal freight operations.
Keelspot is not just about modernizing logistics; it’s about paving the way for a greener, more efficient future in maritime transport.
