Mariners Log launches seed funding round

New Zealand-based Mariners Log has announced the opening of a seed funding round, with the funds to be used towards further R&D, AI and expanding the team.

Mariners Log is building engineering software which it says will improve efficiencies, streamline data collection, and leverage analytics. The software is designed to allow data-driven decisions, removing the need for guesswork.

Mariners Log tackles the issue of outdated, paper-based machinery logs. The company says paper logs are time-consuming and prone to damage, and they don’t allow for the collection of usable data. This, in turn, creates inefficiencies, increases maintenance and can result in dangerous operations.

Designed as a fully digital solution, Mariners Log leverages AI to provide in-depth analytics and identify trends early. Trends can then be acted on to reduce damage, unplanned maintenance and critical breakdowns.

The Mariners Log MVP launched in April 2022 and has since been trialled on over 20 vessels.

Founder Ken Sinclair spent 10 years as an engineer onboard yachts ranging from 30m to 90m, as well as merchant vessels. The idea for the company was sparked while Sinclair was on an ocean crossing, when he became frustrated with the ‘clunky’ log-keeping systems onboard.

“I’m proud of how far Mariners Log has come since the original, single-function version was created on that crossing in 2019,” says Sinclair. “We’ve bootstrapped the business to date with limited finances and resources available. The solution has since not only evolved into a viable product, but it has also evolved into a tool that will have a positive impact on the global maritime industry by reducing inefficiencies. We have gotten this far with limited resources, imagine what we can do with the right backing.”