- Technology and Innovation
Fuel Efficiency at the Fingertips: The High-Stakes Shift to Automated Guidance
Digital Transformation at the Helm
The maritime industry is witnessing a significant shift in how vessel operators interact with their hardware. On January 29, 2026, Hefring Marine announced a landmark integration with Raymarine’s LightHouse operating system. This collaboration brings the Intelligent Marine Assistance System (IMAS) to the Axiom display series, effectively placing an AI-powered digital assistant at the center of the navigation experience. It represents a move away from passive data display toward active, intelligent automation.
Actionable Intelligence in Real Time
The IMAS Helm functions as a persistent co-pilot, constantly scanning vessel performance and external weather patterns. Rather than overwhelming the operator with raw numbers, the system delivers actionable insights designed to optimize fuel consumption and enhance overall safety. By processing data at the edge, the system provides immediate recommendations, allowing mariners to make informed decisions without second-guessing the conditions or the vessel’s capabilities.
Axiom Integration Logic
For Raymarine Axiom users, the beauty of this update lies in its fluidity. The integration is built directly into the LightHouse OS, meaning there is no need to switch between devices or external systems to access the IMAS suite. This creates a more responsive environment at the helm, where advanced sensor data and AI guidance are presented through a single, intuitive interface. It is a technical marriage of trusted electronics and cutting-edge automation.
Sustainability Through Automation
Beyond safety, the Hefring Marine system is a tool for the eco-conscious era. By analyzing operational parameters, IMAS helps reduce the environmental footprint of every voyage through precise fuel management. As fleet managers and private owners alike look to improve vessel sustainability, the ability to monitor and report on efficiency data in real-time becomes a non-negotiable asset. The system doesn’t just guide the boat; it protects the long-term health of the vessel and the environment.
Global Accessibility of Marine AI
Karl Birgir Björnsson, CEO of Hefring Marine, notes that this collaboration is a milestone in making high-tier AI accessible to mariners worldwide. While advanced automation was once reserved for large-scale commercial shipping, the LightHouse OS integration brings these capabilities to a much broader audience. As Raymarine continues to align with innovators in the tech space, the Axiom display is evolving from a chartplotter into a comprehensive command center for the digital age.
The Future of Guided Voyages
As the maritime world continues to embrace digital transformation, the alliance between Raymarine and Hefring Marine serves as a blueprint for the future. The IMAS Helm integration on the Axiom 2 Pro is just the beginning of a move toward more autonomous, safer, and more efficient seafaring. For those who demand the best in marine electronics, the verdict is clear: the most important piece of equipment on your boat might now be the software.
