DNV launches CFARER as independent maritime software brand

Today marks the official launch of CFARER, a new brand formed from what was previously known as DNV Maritime Software. The move represents a significant shift in the ownership and operational structure of DNV’s fleet management software business. The new name CFARER is a clear commitment to the people who keep ships moving, offshore and onshore: the seafarers.  

CFARER now operates independently, with DNV retaining majority ownership and shipping company Wilhelmsen Port Services joining as a new strategic minority shareholder. As part of this change, Wilhelmsen Port Services’ digital subsidiary Diize becomes part of the CFARER team. Its port clearance solution Always on Board will be integrated into the CFARER portfolio, alongside ShipManager, Navigator Port and Hull Manager. All products will continue to be supported and developed under the new brand, with no changes and no interruption for customers and the delivery of services. 

Erik Staubo, CEO of CFARER, said: “This is a structural shift, not just a rebrand. CFARER is now a standalone business with its own leadership, strategy, and commercial direction. By operating independently, CFARER can focus entirely on building better software, responding faster to user needs, and partnering more openly across the industry. Our goal is to ensure continuity for existing users while creating more room for innovation and growth.”

The new setup brings together three distinct perspectives, setting CFARER apart from other maritime SaaS (Software as a Service) companies: 

-        DNV, as majority shareholder, provides continuity, governance, and maritime domain expertise. 

-        Wilhelmsen Port Services, through its unparalleled global network, leading operational expertise, and contribution of maritime software provider Diize, strengthens CFARER’s ability to deliver solutions grounded in real-world operations of global shipping.  

-        Papillon, a maritime technology-focused operator-investor and company builder, leads the company’s operations and long-term growth strategy. 

CFARER’s leadership team will operate independently, with a mandate to scale the business globally. CFARER remains open to exploring new partnerships and future ownership evolution. The aim is clear: to become the digital leader in maritime software, shaped by deep industry collaboration. 

“We are proud to join forces with DNV and for the Diize team to become part of CFARER – a powerful step forward in our mission to drive smarter and safer operations, both at sea and in port,” said Michael Satzger, Vice President, Strategy, M&A and Business Development at Wilhelmsen Port Services. “Together, we are committed to building solutions that serve the real needs of seafarers – placing them where they belong: at the heart of shipping.”

CFARER continues to deliver the trusted solutions fleets rely on every day. Navigator Port and Always on Board by Diize are now united under the CFARER Port Clearance family. Ship Manager, used globally for technical Fleet Management, and Hull Manager, focused on inspection and hull integrity, remain leading digital solutions with strong innovations in the pipeline for 2025. During 2025, all products will be available in both Cloud and Classic versions, allowing crews to work with what fits best, wherever they are in the digital landscape. 

“The maritime software market is moving fast. CFARER’s new brand and structure gives it the independence to innovate quickly, while customers continue to benefit from the trust and reliability built over decades,” said Kenneth Vareide, CEO, Digital Solutions, DNV, and Chairman of the Board of CFARER.