--- title: "FuelExplorer: AIS Fuel Monitoring for Tugboats | LionRock" description: FuelExplorer monitors tugboat fuel consumption by job, speed, captain, and operating condition to improve fuel efficiency without new hardware. image: https://lionrockmaritime.com/hubfs/AI-Generated%20Media/Images/optimized/lionrock-solution-fuelexplorer-dashboard.webp --- [Skip to Content](https://lionrockmaritime.com/solution/fuelexplorer#body) [![Lionrock Maritime Logo](https://lionrockmaritime.com/hubfs/LionRock-Logo-Liggend-Payoff-Svg.svg "Lionrock Maritime Logo")](https://lionrockmaritime.com/) Toggle Menu - [Solutions](https://lionrockmaritime.com/solution) Toggle children for Solutions - [PowerCaptain](https://lionrockmaritime.com/solution/powercaptain) - [PortCaptain](https://lionrockmaritime.com/solution/portcaptain) - [PortExplorer](https://lionrockmaritime.com/solution/portexplorer) - [FuelExplorer](https://lionrockmaritime.com/solution/fuelexplorer) - [EmissionExplorer](https://lionrockmaritime.com/solution/emissionexplorer) - [TugIO](https://lionrockmaritime.com/solution/tugio) - Resources Toggle children for Resources - [Reports](https://lionrockmaritime.com/report) - [Knowledge Base](https://lionrockmaritime.com/kb) - [Blog](https://lionrockmaritime.com/tugboat-news) - [CO2-Reduction Calculator](https://lionrockmaritime.com/co2reductioncalculator) - [Pricing](https://lionrockmaritime.com/pricing) - [Contact](https://lionrockmaritime.com/contact) - Open Search Search Submit Search - [Talk to Sales](https://lionrockmaritime.com/demo) ![FuelExplorer](https://lionrockmaritime.com/hs-fs/hubfs/AI-Generated%20Media/Images/optimized/lionrock-solution-fuelexplorer-dashboard.webp?width=1440&height=856&name=lionrock-solution-fuelexplorer-dashboard.webp) Solution # FuelExplorer Understand and Reduce Fuel Consumption in Tugboat Operations   Fuel is one of the biggest costs in tugboat operations, but most operators lack accurate insights into how much they use and where they can save. LionRock provides a way to measure and analyze exact fuel consumption, helping companies cut costs and improve efficiency without installing expensive equipment.  [Start optimizing fuel consumption](https://lionrockmaritime.com/demo) [Skip Navigation](https://lionrockmaritime.com/solution/fuelexplorer#after-page-nav) - [Introduction](https://lionrockmaritime.com/solution/fuelexplorer#introduction) - [Benefits](https://lionrockmaritime.com/solution/fuelexplorer#benefits) - [Reports](https://lionrockmaritime.com/solution/fuelexplorer#reports) - [Case Study](https://lionrockmaritime.com/solution/fuelexplorer#case-study) - [Implementation](https://lionrockmaritime.com/solution/fuelexplorer#how-it-works) - [FAQ's](https://lionrockmaritime.com/solution/fuelexplorer#faq) Introduction ## Cut fuel costs and improve tugboat efficiency FuelExplorer helps tugboat operators and fleet managers understand how fuel is used across vessels, captains, and customers. FuelExplorer helps operators understand tugboat fuel consumption at the level where decisions are actually made: per tug, captain, job, speed range, terminal, and operating condition. Instead of treating fuel as a monthly cost line, it works like a ship performance monitoring layer for harbor towage, giving managers a vessel performance monitoring system that identifies avoidable waste and turns tugboat fuel efficiency into a measurable routine. It goes beyond simple tracking of fuel use with a meter. It contextualizes fuel use data with a detailed analysis of operational circumstances. Only then do you get meaningful insight highlighting where fuel is being wasted and where there’s room to improve. With easy-to-read reports and actionable insights, FuelExplorer supports data-driven decisions without the need for costly sensors or system overhauls. Executive answer ## What is a vessel performance monitoring system for tugs? A vessel performance monitoring system shows how much fuel a vessel uses and why. For tugs the answer sits in the job stages: transit, waiting, light sailing and the assist itself. FuelExplorer builds that view from AIS data — fuel consumption per job, per vessel and per captain — without sensors or onboard installation. [Measure fuel consumption](https://lionrockmaritime.com/kb/how-to-measure-tugboat-fuel-consumption-knowledge-base)[See the fuel index](https://lionrockmaritime.com/report/tugboat-fuel-index)[Analyze speed waste](https://lionrockmaritime.com/report/speed-monitoring-dashboard)[Read the fuel guide](https://lionrockmaritime.com/tugboat-news/tugboat-fuel-consumption) ![LionRock Maritime Problem Icon](https://lionrockmaritime.com/hubfs/LionRock%20Maritime%20Problem%20Icon.svg) ### From... Just paying the monthly fuel bills | ❌ | **Costly or inaccurate fuel data** Fuel meters are expensive and require downtime, so many operators rely on tank readings instead. | | --- | --- | | ❌ | **High fuel costs** Without accurate fuel data, operators struggle to identify inefficiencies, leading to unnecessary fuel consumption and higher costs. | | ❌ | **Just Data** Data without context is just a waste on itself. It does not provide meaningful insights that can be acted upon to improve. |     ![LionRock Maritime Solution Icon](https://lionrockmaritime.com/hubfs/LionRock%20Maritime%20Solution%20Icon.svg) ### …To Controlling and optimizing fuel cost and emissions | **✅** | **Accurate fuel data at a low cost** Get accurate fuel data without the installation of an in-line flow meter. Avoid the installation time. | | --- | --- | | ✅ | **Improved fuel efficiency** With understanding, fuel comes insights about areas for improvement. Make data-enabled decisions about savings initiatives and training. | | ✅ | **Real insights** With a unique operational context, fuel consumption data can be interpreted and analyzed. It will give meaning to otherwise just flat consumption data. |     Start with FuelExplorer today ## Solution: A Data-Driven Approach to Fuel Efficiency LionRock provides accurate fuel insights using machine learning and operational data, helping operators cut costs, improve efficiency, and reduce emissions—without expensive installations. ✅   Get detailed fuel consumption data with high accuracy ✅   Reduce operational costs and improve efficiency ✅   Meet sustainability targets with data-backed decision-making [Get Started Now](https://lionrockmaritime.com/demo) Benefits ## Unlock operational efficiency at the source FuelExplorer helps you cut fuel costs, lower emissions, and gain operational insights—without costly installations or workflow interruptions. [Schedule a Demo](https://lionrockmaritime.com/demo) ### Reduced Operational Costs & Improved Efficiency By understanding fuel usage per job, captain, or operational scenario, you can identify inefficiencies, optimize routes, and adjust operations to cut unnecessary fuel expenses, saving thousands annually. ### Accurate Fuel Insights Without Expensive Hardware Traditional fuel meters require significant investment and downtime for installation. Our solution leverages machine learning and contextual data to provide precise fuel consumption insights—without the need for costly hardware upgrades. ### Easy Sustainability & Regulatory Compliance With increasing environmental regulations, tracking and reducing emissions are critical. LionRock delivers real-time CO2 impact assessments, helping you align with sustainability goals and comply with industry standards effortlessly. ### Quick Integration & Real-Time Insights We work with existing vessel data sources, integrating AIS, RPM, and IoT-driven tracking to deliver real-time insights. No downtime, no disruptions—just actionable intelligence at your fingertips. ### Minimal Management Effort Fuel optimization without added workload—reports are automated, allowing leaders to stay focused on operations. ### Maritime Expertise Partner with industry veterans—our team combines experience in tug operations and maritime with data analytics expertise. FuelExplorer Reports ## Operational insights that matter ![4_1 Fuel Pricing Tool Dashboard - FuelExplorer - LionRock Maritime Resource](https://lionrockmaritime.com/hs-fs/hubfs/reports/4_1%20Fuel%20Pricing%20Tool%20Dashboard%20-%20FuelExplorer%20-%20LionRock%20Maritime%20Resource.webp?width=2375&height=1699&name=4_1%20Fuel%20Pricing%20Tool%20Dashboard%20-%20FuelExplorer%20-%20LionRock%20Maritime%20Resource.webp) ### Fuel Pricing Tool The dashboard tracks fuel consumption patterns across fleet, terminals and customers, highlighting fuel spending patterns and real cost allocation. [Learn More](https://lionrockmaritime.com/report/fuel-pricing-tool) ![4_2 Captain Fuel Index - FuelExplorer - LionRock Maritime Resource](https://lionrockmaritime.com/hs-fs/hubfs/reports/4_2%20Captain%20Fuel%20Index%20-%20FuelExplorer%20-%20LionRock%20Maritime%20Resource.webp?width=2375&height=1699&name=4_2%20Captain%20Fuel%20Index%20-%20FuelExplorer%20-%20LionRock%20Maritime%20Resource.webp) ### Captain Fuel Index The **Captain Fuel Index** provides powerful fleet-wide and individual-level insights into these fuel consumption patterns.    [Learn More](https://lionrockmaritime.com/report/captain-fuel-index) ![Tugboat Fuel Index - FuelExplorer - LionRock Maritime Resource](https://lionrockmaritime.com/hs-fs/hubfs/reports/4_3%20Tugboat%20Fuel%20Index%20-%20FuelExplorer%20-%20LionRock%20Maritime%20Resource.webp?width=2375&height=1699&name=4_3%20Tugboat%20Fuel%20Index%20-%20FuelExplorer%20-%20LionRock%20Maritime%20Resource.webp) ### Tugboat Fuel Index **The Tugboat Fuel Index** shows how port operators and tugboat managers can understand and act on fuel consumption data for operational and environmental benefits. [Learn More](https://lionrockmaritime.com/report/tugboat-fuel-index) ## Included ### Fuel Explorer System for monitoring and reducing fuel consumption of tugboats. --- Pricing [Talk to sales](https://lionrockmaritime.com/demo) **Plan Includes** | | Fuel Pricing Tool | | --- | --- | | | Captain Fuel index | | | Tugboat Fuel index |   ## Interesting Add-ons For your operational excellence | | (Most Popular) PowerCaptain | PortExplorer | PortCaptain | EmissionExplorer | TugIO | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | | [Speed Monitoring Dashboard](https://lionrockmaritime.com/report/speed-monitoring-dashboard) | [Market Tracking Dashboard](https://lionrockmaritime.com/report/market-tracking-dashboard) | [Cost Leadership Tool](https://lionrockmaritime.com/report/cost-leadership-tool) | [Emission Monitoring Tool](https://lionrockmaritime.com/report/emission-monitoring-tool) | [Job Level Data](https://lionrockmaritime.com/report/job-level-data) | | | [Performance Feedback tool](https://lionrockmaritime.com/report/performance-feedback-tool) | [Tug Capacity Tool](https://lionrockmaritime.com/report/tug-capacity-tool) | [Tug Capacity Tool](https://lionrockmaritime.com/report/tug-capacity-tool) | Emission Verification Tool | [Maneuver Data](https://lionrockmaritime.com/report/maneuver-data) | | | [Fuel Waste Monitoring Dashboard](https://lionrockmaritime.com/report/fuel-waste-monitoring-dashboard) | Customer Value Tool | Customer Value Tool | | | | | | Business Case Support | | | | Can't decide? The great team at LionRock Maritime is here to help! [Reach Out Now](https://lionrockmaritime.com/demo) ![2.1.6_Job_playbacks-1](https://lionrockmaritime.com/hs-fs/hubfs/2.1.6_Job_playbacks-1.webp?width=1593&height=868&name=2.1.6_Job_playbacks-1.webp) Case Study ### Fairplay Towage gets a firm control of fuel cost To help Fairplay Towage get access to fuel consumption data of its fleet cost-effectively, LionRock Maritime used advanced machine-learning algorithms to estimate fuel consumption. The algorithms can accurately predict fuel consumption based on two primary types of data: operational context and engine Rotations Per Minute (RPM). Operational context includes a variety of parameters such as the tug's speed, load, weather conditions, and the type of operation being conducted (e.g., docking, towing). RPM data provides insights into the engine's operational status, reflecting how hard the engine is working at any given time. Based on the operational context and RPM data from the engine, the model demonstrated impressive results in its initial trials. Implemented on a tug from Fairplay Towage in the Port of Rotterdam, the system achieved an average deviation of just 1.8% from actual fuel measurements, with a maximum deviation of 3.3%. These figures are particularly noteworthy given the erratic nature of tugboat operations. Further, the low deviation rates in these trials highlight the model’s ability to handle the complexities of real-world maritime operations. This accuracy is crucial for operators who rely on precise data to manage fuel consumption effectively, helping to control costs and reduce environmental impact. [Find out how you can get there too](https://lionrockmaritime.com/demo) Get started today ## Increase Fuel Efficiency Tracking fuel consumption in tugboat operations is challenging, but it doesn’t have to mean expensive installations or downtime. LionRock uses machine learning and operational data to provide accurate fuel insights, helping you cut costs, optimize performance, and reduce emissions. [Let’s Talk – Schedule a Call with Our Experts](https://lionrockmaritime.com/demo) How it works ## How we implement FuelExplorer into your operations ![LionRock Step 1](https://lionrockmaritime.com/hubfs/LionRock%20Step%201.svg) ### Train fuel model With RPM data and operational context data derived from advanced analysis of AIS data, we train a model that estimates fuel consumption. ![LionRock Step 2](https://lionrockmaritime.com/hubfs/LionRock%20Step%202.svg) ### Test fuel model Detailed comparison against actual fuel data using a temporary flow meter will ensure we can tweak the model to perfection. ![LionRock Step 3](https://lionrockmaritime.com/hubfs/LionRock%20Step%203.svg) ### Run fuel model We run the model on job data that you can either supply us with, or we use the job data derived from our software. We feed the fuel data back to your cloud, too. Testimonials ## See what others have to say after working with us “With this program I have certainly adjusted my cruising speed to lower levels because of the awareness raised. Before my default speed was at 650 RPM and now I have reduced that to 550 RPM”                                                                            ![Marcel de Graaff Fairplay Towage - LionRock](https://lionrockmaritime.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Marcel%20Fairplay.webp?width=120&height=120&name=Marcel%20Fairplay.webp) **Marcel de Graaff** Tugboat Captain at Fairplay Towage “LionRock helps us effectively manage our fleet. The program makes our crews and operators to be conscious of their impacts while performing work.  We have seen real reductions in fuel consumption across all our operations.” ![Jonathan Archer at Moran - LionRock](https://lionrockmaritime.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Jonathan%20Moran.webp?width=120&height=120&name=Jonathan%20Moran.webp) **Jonathan Archer** Regional Manager at Moran “The speed tracking report allows us to navigate more efficiently and therefore more environmentally responsible - a profitable course for both Mutraship and our planet.”                                                                                                   ![Justin Pasman - Multraship - LionRock](https://lionrockmaritime.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Justin%20Multraship.webp?width=120&height=120&name=Justin%20Multraship.webp) **Justin Pasman** Tugboat captain at Multraship The Power Captain program by LionRock Maritime helped us reduce our sailing speeds and thereby our fuel consumption and emissions significantly as well as structurally in just a matter of weeks.                                                    ![Ricardo Faggiani at Medtug - LionRock](https://lionrockmaritime.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Ricardo%20Medtug.webp?width=120&height=120&name=Ricardo%20Medtug.webp) **Riccardo Faggiani** Program Implementation Coordinator MedTug “The speeding program is a fun project. It brings something to your attention of which you were latently already aware.” Frans was one of the first captains to use the PowerCaptain solution and started already in 2018 and still going strong today. ![Frans Jorna at Fairplay - LionRock](https://lionrockmaritime.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Frans%20Fairplay.webp?width=120&height=120&name=Frans%20Fairplay.webp) **Frans Jorna** Tugboat Captain at Fairplay Towage We Have Answers ## Frequently Asked Questions Get clear answers on our solutions, implementation, and how we help you improve tugboat efficiency and performance. ### What you need to know How do you measure fuel consumption without a fuel meter? We use a combination of AIS data, RPM readings, and machine learning models to estimate fuel usage with high accuracy. Can I use the system if I don’t have engine sensors installed? Yes, there are multiple setup options—including models trained on operational data alone. How accurate is the fuel data? In most use cases, the combined model of contextual and RPM data gives a near-exact estimate of actual fuel consumption. How does this help with emission tracking? We provide detailed CO₂ emission reports by job, tug, or customer to support environmental targets. Can I see the fuel usage across different benchmarks? Yes—the system includes captain tables and tug performance data for internal comparisons. Does this help with regulatory compliance? Yes—the insights help operators monitor and document fuel use and emissions. It makes it easier to prepare the scope 3 emission reporting. What hardware is needed to get started? Depending on the setup, you may need a data logger, an AIS receiver, and optionally, a temporary fuel meter or RPM connection. Is installation disruptive to operations? No—temporary setups can be installed with minimal interruption, and permanent options can be scheduled flexibly. Is FuelExplorer a ship performance monitoring system? Yes - FuelExplorer is a vessel performance monitoring system built specifically for tugboats. It models fuel consumption from AIS movement data using machine learning, so you get per-vessel and per-job performance insight without installing flow meters or other onboard hardware. How does AIS-based performance monitoring compare to onboard sensors? Onboard fuel sensors are accurate but expensive to install and maintain across a fleet. FuelExplorer's AIS-based model reaches comparable accuracy for operational decision-making, works on every vessel from day one, and can be combined with existing sensor data where available for even higher precision. Get a Demo ## See FuelExplorer in Action! Tugboat operators are saving thousands in fuel costs while reducing emissions, without installing any new hardware or software. Want to see how it works for your fleet? **Get a personalized demo to:**✅   Discover how AIS data helps optimize sailing speeds ✅   See real-world fuel savings from similar operations ✅   Learn how captains engage with weekly performance reports   ##### **Book your free demo today and start saving!** [Request a Demo today](https://lionrockmaritime.com/demo) [![LionRock Maritime Logo Aternative](https://lionrockmaritime.com/hubfs/LionRock%20Maritime%20Logo%20Aternative.svg "LionRock Maritime Logo Aternative")](https://lionrockmaritime.com/) [IJsbaanpad 2](https://maps.app.goo.gl/s5CM2jqG2Bu4pDoAA)[1076 CV, Amsterdam](https://maps.app.goo.gl/s5CM2jqG2Bu4pDoAA) [+31 (0)6 144 59 097](tel:+31614459097) ###### Contact Us [rick.broersma@lionrockmaritime.com](mailto:rick.broersma@lionrockmaritime.com) © 2026 LionRock Maritime B.V.  ###### Solutions - [PowerCaptain](https://lionrockmaritime.com/solution/powercaptain) - [PortCaptain](https://lionrockmaritime.com/solution/portcaptain) - [PortExplorer](https://lionrockmaritime.com/solution/portexplorer) - [FuelExplorer](https://lionrockmaritime.com/solution/fuelexplorer) - [EmissionExplorer](https://lionrockmaritime.com/solution/emissionexplorer) - [TugIO](https://lionrockmaritime.com/solution/tugio) ###### Resources - [Reports](https://lionrockmaritime.com/report) - [Knowledge Base](https://lionrockmaritime.com/lionrock-market-data-api-knowledge-base) - [Blog](https://lionrockmaritime.com/tugboat-news) - [CO2 Reduction Calculator](https://lionrockmaritime.com/coming-soon) ###### Legal - [Legal Notice](https://lionrockmaritime.com/legal) - [Privacy Policy](https://lionrockmaritime.com/privacy-policy) - [Terms & Conditions](https://lionrockmaritime.com/hubfs/General_Terms_%26_Conditions_LionRock_Maritime.pdf) - [Pricing](https://lionrockmaritime.com/pricing) - [Contact](https://lionrockmaritime.com/contact)   [Have a question? Feel free to reach out. We love to hear from you!](https://hello.lionrockmaritime.com/contact) ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "SoftwareApplication", "applicationCategory" : "BusinessApplication", "description" : "FuelExplorer monitors tugboat fuel consumption with AI-modeled, AIS-based analytics that require no onboard hardware.", "name" : "FuelExplorer", "operatingSystem" : "Web", "provider" : { "@type" : "Organization", "name" : "LionRock Maritime", "url" : "https://lionrockmaritime.com/" }, "url" : "https://lionrockmaritime.com/solution/fuelexplorer" } ``` ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BreadcrumbList", "itemListElement" : [ { "@type" : "ListItem", "item" : "https://lionrockmaritime.com/", "name" : "Home", "position" : 1 }, { "@type" : "ListItem", "item" : "https://lionrockmaritime.com/solution", "name" : "Solutions", "position" : 2 }, { "@type" : "ListItem", "item" : "https://lionrockmaritime.com/solution/fuelexplorer", "name" : "FuelExplorer", "position" : 3 } ] } ``` ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "FAQPage", "mainEntity" : [ { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "

We use a combination of AIS data, RPM readings, and machine learning models to estimate fuel usage with high accuracy.

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Yes, there are multiple setup options—including models trained on operational data alone.

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In most use cases, the combined model of contextual and RPM data gives a near-exact estimate of actual fuel consumption.

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We provide detailed CO₂ emission reports by job, tug, or customer to support environmental targets.

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Yes—the system includes captain tables and tug performance data for internal comparisons.

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Yes—the insights help operators monitor and document fuel use and emissions. It makes it easier to prepare the scope 3 emission reporting.

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Depending on the setup, you may need a data logger, an AIS receiver, and optionally, a temporary fuel meter or RPM connection.

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No—temporary setups can be installed with minimal interruption, and permanent options can be scheduled flexibly.

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Yes - FuelExplorer is a vessel performance monitoring system built specifically for tugboats. It models fuel consumption from AIS movement data using machine learning, so you get per-vessel and per-job performance insight without installing flow meters or other onboard hardware.

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Onboard fuel sensors are accurate but expensive to install and maintain across a fleet. FuelExplorer's AIS-based model reaches comparable accuracy for operational decision-making, works on every vessel from day one, and can be combined with existing sensor data where available for even higher precision.

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