OrbitMI’s latest acquisition of Gale Force isn’t just a tech buyout—it’s a bet on blending human expertise with data-driven decision-making. The New York-based maritime tech firm is embedding Gale Force’s advisory services directly into its voyage optimization platform, creating a hybrid model that could redefine how shipowners approach efficiency and compliance.
This isn’t OrbitMI’s first move to bridge the gap between raw data and actionable insights. Earlier this year, the company acquired AI specialist AuQub, signaling a clear strategy: layering advanced technology with hands-on maritime know-how. The result? A platform that doesn’t just spit out numbers but delivers practical, real-world solutions.
Gale Force, founded by maritime operations expert Tom Sandberg, brings a wealth of experience in weather routing, compliance tracking, and voyage performance. Their expertise will now be woven into OrbitMI’s workflows, allowing clients to access faster, more informed decision-making. “We’re building more than a platform, we’re building a partner in maritime decision-making,” said Ali Riaz, CEO of OrbitMI. “Bringing Gale Force into the OrbitMI family allows us to embed critical advisory services directly into daily workflows, helping our clients move from insight to action even faster.”
The acquisition also underscores a growing trend in maritime tech: the shift from standalone tools to integrated ecosystems. Shipowners are no longer just looking for data—they want a seamless, end-to-end solution that combines analytics with operational guidance. By integrating Gale Force’s services, OrbitMI is positioning itself as a one-stop shop for voyage optimization, compliance, and performance monitoring.
But what does this mean for the industry? For starters, it challenges the notion that digital transformation is purely about automation. The most effective tools will be those that combine AI with human expertise, creating a feedback loop where technology enhances, rather than replaces, maritime professionals.
OrbitMI’s commitment to an open approach with weather services is another key takeaway. By supporting multiple providers, the company ensures flexibility for clients, allowing them to choose the best fit for their needs. “The client’s success continues to be our North Star,” Riaz emphasized. This client-centric approach could set a new standard for maritime tech providers, pushing them to prioritize adaptability and customization.
For Gale Force, the acquisition means scaling its impact. “We’ve always believed that better data leads to better decisions—but only when it’s supported by the right expertise,” said Sandberg. “Joining OrbitMI allows us to bring our advisory model to a broader audience, embedded in a platform built for scale and impact.”
The maritime industry is at a crossroads. With tightening environmental regulations and mounting pressure to cut costs, shipowners need tools that deliver both efficiency and compliance. OrbitMI’s acquisition of Gale Force is a step toward meeting that demand—by combining the best of technology and human expertise. The question now is: Will other maritime tech firms follow suit, or will OrbitMI’s integrated approach set a new industry benchmark?