DNV and Wilhelmsen Port Services launch independent maritime software brand

Classification society DNV on Wednesday (6 August) launched CFARER, a new brand formed from what was previously known as DNV Maritime Software.

CFARER will now operate independently with DNV retaining majority ownership and shipping company Wilhelmsen Port Services joining as a new strategic minority shareholder. 

The move represents a significant shift in the ownership and operational structure of DNV’s fleet management software business. 

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. 

CFARER added 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.

“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,” said Erik Staubo, CEO of CFARER. 

The new setup brings together three distinct perspectives, setting CFARER apart from other maritime Software as a Service (SaaS) 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 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. Together, we are committed to building solutions that serve the real needs of seafarers – placing them where they belong: at the heart of shipping,” said Michael Satzger, Vice President, Strategy, M&A and Business Development at Wilhelmsen Port Services. 

Photo credit: DNV
Published: 7 August, 2025