MSC and Jotun Deploy Hull Skating Solutions on MSC Daniela

MSC and Jotun have agreed to install and operate Jotun's Hull Skating Solutions aboard the container vessel MSC Daniela, strengthening a long-standing collaboration. The full package combines Jotun's SeaQuantum Skate coating with robotic hull inspection and cleaning technology to maintain a continuously clean hull. Completed during the vessel's drydocking in China in June 2026, the system supports vessel efficiency while preserving fuel, cutting carbon emissions and limiting the transfer of species between harbours.

 

Details of the Agreement

 

MSC and Jotun have entered a significant new agreement. It covers the installation and operation of Hull Skating Solutions. The system will be deployed aboard the vessel MSC Daniela. This further strengthens the collaboration between the two companies. Their relationship is described as long-standing.

The agreement covers a comprehensive package. It includes the full Hull Skating Solutions offering. This combines Jotun's SeaQuantum Skate coating with robotic technology. The robotic element handles hull inspection and cleaning. Together these maintain an always clean hull during operations.

 

The Installation

 

The system was fitted during a scheduled maintenance period. The installation was completed during the vessel's drydocking. This took place in China in June 2026. Drydocking provides an ideal opportunity for such work. It allows the coating and systems to be applied thoroughly.

The timing integrated the installation into planned maintenance. Fitting the system during drydocking avoids additional downtime. This makes efficient use of the vessel's out-of-service period. The completed installation prepared the vessel for operation. The system is now active aboard MSC Daniela.

 

How the Technology Works

 

The system takes a proactive approach to hull cleanliness. It combines advanced antifouling technology with robotic cleaning. The robotic element conducts proactive inspection and cleaning. This maintains the hull in a continuously clean state. This contrasts with reactive cleaning approaches.

The technology has received independent validation. Jotun recently obtained verification from DNV. This verified an always clean hull for vessels using the system. Critically, this came with no measurable speed loss. This independent confirmation lends credibility to the technology's claims.

 

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Efficiency and Environmental Benefits

 

The system delivers several operational benefits. Maintaining a clean hull supports vessel efficiency. It helps preserve fuel during operations. It also cuts carbon emissions from the vessel. These benefits align with growing industry priorities.

The technology also offers environmental protection benefits. A clean hull limits the transfer of species between harbours. This addresses the spread of invasive marine species. Biofouling can carry organisms from one port to another. Continuous cleaning reduces this risk of transfer.

 

Significance for MSC

 

The agreement reflects MSC's operational priorities. Company leadership emphasised the value of a clean hull. Maintaining cleanliness cuts carbon emissions and preserves fuel. Fuel preservation is described as an important priority for MSC. The company looks to maximise the solution's benefits.

The deal deepens an existing partnership. It represents another milestone in the companies' relationship. It reflects a shared commitment to clean shipping. Both companies emphasised the value of their collaboration. This partnership is built on trust and shared goals.

 

Industry Context

 

The agreement reflects broader industry trends. It underlines the growing importance of hull performance management. Shipowners increasingly focus on efficiency and decarbonisation. Solutions maintaining clean hulls are becoming more important. Predictable performance is a key industry concern.

The principle behind the technology is straightforward. Jotun summarised it as a clean hull being an efficient hull. Biofouling increases drag and raises fuel consumption. Keeping the hull clean therefore improves efficiency. This simple relationship underpins the value of the system.