Challenge
The cruise industry faces unique logistical challenges in efficiently managing and predicting the consumption of goods onboard. Ensuring sustainability and minimizing waste while maintaining passenger comfort and supply security has been a significant hurdle. Additionally, fluctuating passenger demands and the complexity of international supply chains further complicate efficient resource management.
Solution
MarineXchange addressed these issues by developing a groundbreaking AI-driven system that optimizes the supply chain for cruise ships. The system focuses on:
- Precise Demand Forecasting: By leveraging AI, the system predicts the consumption of goods with remarkable accuracy, enabling better planning and inventory management. This
foresight helps align inventory levels with real-time needs, preventing overstocking and shortages. - Enhanced Sustainability: The optimization reduces waste and minimizes the environmental impact of cruise operations. It incorporates real-time data analytics to identify inefficiencies and promote resource conservation.
- Improved Passenger Experience: The system ensures that resources are efficiently managed, leading to increased comfort and security for passengers. From ensuring food availability to maintaining essential supplies, the solution enhances the onboard experience.
- Streamlined Operations: MarineXchange’s platform automates various logistical processes, reducing the workload on management teams and allowing staff to focus on core service delivery.
Results
- Operational Efficiency: Significant improvements in the management of goods and resources, resulting in cost savings and operational reliability. Automation also reduced manual errors and improved response times.
- Environmental Benefits: Reduction in waste and resource overuse, contributing to the ecological sustainability of cruise operations. The project aligns with global sustainability goals by minimizing the carbon footprint of logistics.
- Enhanced Service Quality: Improved supply chain management ensures passengers enjoy a seamless and comfortable experience. Tailored provisioning has led to higher passenger satisfaction rates.
- Industry Leadership: MarineXchange’s initiative positions the cruise industry as a leader in sustainable practices, setting an example for other sectors to follow.

AIlevator Award Ceremony with LR Eibinger-Miedl, Aneta Ivanovska and Gregor Grbec (MarineXchange) and Oliver Bernecker (Know Center)
Impact and Benefits
MarineXchange’s innovative solution has set new benchmarks in cruise supply chain management. By integrating advanced AI technologies, the project not only addresses the logistical complexities of the industry but also provides a scalable model for other sectors. Its
ability to reduce environmental impact while boosting operational efficiency exemplifies the transformative potential of technology in achieving sustainability goals. The platform’s success underscores the importance of leveraging AI for practical, impactful applications in global industries.
MarineXchange’s achievements have been recognized with the prestigious AILEVATOR Award 2024, highlighting its groundbreaking contributions to innovation and sustainability in the cruise industry. This accolade underscores the project’s role as a trailblazer in integrating advanced technology with environmental and operational excellence.
This success story was provided by the centre management and by the mentioned project partners for the purpose of being published on the FFG website. Know Center Research GmbH is a COMET Centre within the COMET – Competence Centers for Excellent Technologies Programme and funded by BMK, BMDW, as well as the federal states Styria, Vienna and Tyrol. The COMET Programme is managed by FFG. Further information on COMET: www.ffg.at/comet