What is AI?
I cannot believe the term AI has passed you by, but in case it has, here is a definition.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is the capability of computational systems to perform tasks typically associated with human intelligence, such as learning, reasoning, problem-solving, perception, and decision-making. It is a field of research in engineering, mathematics and computer science that develops and studies methods and software that enable machines to perceive their environment and use learning and intelligence to take actions that maximize their chances of achieving defined goals.
AI doesn’t strictly “think” like a human brain; rather, it uses advanced algorithms and massive datasets to identify patterns, make predictions, and adapt to new information.
Introduction
Now that we have that clear – as I browse my daily maritime news feeds, the surge of AI technology coming at us from all angles is evident. We can choose to try and ignore it, but in doing so we are likely to get left behind rapidly. The technology is developing so fast that by the time you have finished reading this article, this content will certainly be out of date!
The simple truth is that an article of a little more than 4,000 words cannot do justice to what is going on in today’s world and the burgeoning impact of AI on all corners of the maritime sector.
So, this is my best attempt to bring together what I hope is an eclectic, and insightful collation of stories ranging from the small craft sector to large scale commercial ship operations that give a flavour of some of the opportunities (and threats) posed by AI, and some of the likely future changes and their impact on our profession and personal lives.
As someone remarked earlier this year, we did not vote for AI, many of us do not want it and are concerned about the implications when it becomes too powerful. But it is here, surrounding us.
Where possible I have credited the authors of the stories you are about to read, but I have not been able to do so in all cases. But my thanks to all of them for providing me with the inspiration to compile this article.
Let’s get on …
Introduced and collated by Mike Schwarz,
IIMS Chief Executive Officer
How AI is transforming yacht surveying
The future of marine surveying isn’t about replacing professionals. It’s about giving them tools that let them work faster, clearer and with less stress.
Talk to any experienced yacht surveyor and you’ll hear a similar story: the inspections are the easy part. The real work starts when you get home and open the laptop. Reports have grown longer, expectations have crept higher and clients want detail that goes far beyond “traditional” surveys. Add insurers, brokers and increasingly complex systems aboard modern yachts, and it’s easy to see why many surveyors spend more time writing than inspecting.
This is where AI enters the picture. Not as a replacement, not as a shortcut for inexperienced people, but as a tool that removes the friction from the administrative side of the job. For the first time, surveyors can offload parts of their workflow that don’t rely on experience, judgement or being physically present on the vessel. The idea isn’t to change the craft of surveying. It’s to take back the hours that reports quietly absorb every week.
What AI actually helps with
When people think about AI in technical industries, they often imagine machines attempting to replicate expert judgement. That’s not what’s happening in yacht surveying. The biggest impact today comes from much simpler, more practical tasks — the things that slow surveyors down even though they don’t require hands-on expertise.
One of the most helpful uses is turning rough field notes into clear, structured text. Many surveyors prefer shorthand, voice notes or quick observations during an inspection. Raw notes like “stern gland slight leak, bilge oily, moisture high near stanchions” can be transformed into clean, coherent prose that’s ready for a report. The same goes for long-winded manufacturer manuals, previous surveys or technical documents. Summaries that used to take half an hour can now appear in a few seconds and still read naturally.
AI is also surprisingly effective with images. Captioning photos, identifying what the picture shows and pointing out obvious issues removes another small but time-consuming part of the reporting process. Even something as simple as helping illustrate concepts for clients — a diagram of a hull cross-section or a simplified representation of a rig layout — can turn a confusing paragraph into something instantly understandable. These are not glamorous tasks, but they are the ones that quietly consume hours. AI handles them well, and it frees you to focus on the part of the job that only a trained surveyor can do.
What AI cannot do (and probably never will)
Despite the hype that sometimes surrounds AI, its limitations are clear when it comes to surveying. AI cannot smell fuel vapour, tap a deck and judge its response, or notice when a fitting feels loose. It cannot distinguish between a harmless stain and a structural concern. And it most certainly cannot make safety recommendations without guidance from the human in charge. Surveying remains a physical, interpretive discipline. No AI model — now or in the foreseeable future — can replace the value of experience gained on real boats in real conditions.
The real power of AI here lies in partnership. You inspect, evaluate and decide. AI helps you communicate those decisions quickly and clearly.
Here’s a real example
Imagine you’ve just come back from a pre-purchase survey and your notebook contains a handful of quick observations:
- “stern gland weeping slight”
- “moisture high port stanchion
- “bilge oily”
- “exhaust hose soft patches”
A general AI model will usually create something respectable with that information, but a domain-trained tool will produce text that sounds far closer to what an experienced surveyor would write:
“Light weeping was observed at the stern gland and should be monitored, with repacking likely to be required in the near future. The bilge area is contaminated with oil residue, limiting inspection access and warranting cleaning. Elevated moisture readings were recorded around the port-side stanchion bases, suggesting potential core saturation and the need for further investigation. The exhaust hose shows notable softening, consistent with age and deterioration, and is due for replacement.”
This is the kind of output that can go straight into a report with minimal editing — not a first draft, but a near-final version.
The virtual side of reporting
One of the unexpected benefits of AI is how it supports the visual component of surveying. Many clients, especially first-time boat buyers, struggle to interpret photos without context. What’s obvious to you isn’t obvious to them.
AI can help highlight the part of the image that matters, generate a caption that explains the issue in plain language or even produce simple diagrams when needed. These enhancements don’t replace the original photographs, and they certainly don’t alter evidence. Instead, they improve understanding, reduce miscommunication and make reports easier to digest.
What lies Ahead
The next few years are likely to bring even more change. We can expect improvements in defect recognition, better interpretation of moisture readings and more accurate technical language. None of this replaces surveyors; instead, it gives them tools that make their work more efficient, more consistent and more accessible to clients.
Early adopters will have an advantage. They’ll complete reports faster, maintain a more consistent style and offer clarity that clients and insurers appreciate.
More information: https://medium.com/@rickkirton
Saronic and Lloyd’s Register partner on maritime autonomy standards
U.S autonomous vessel developer Saronic has entered into a strategic partnership with Lloyd’s Register (LR) to support the safe deployment of autonomous maritime systems in the United Kingdom, Europe and Australia. The companies said the collaboration would focus on advancing technical standards, regulatory guidance and classification pathways for autonomous surface vessels.
Saronic said it would pursue classification activities for its autonomous vessels with LR as part of the agreement. The partnership will also involve engagement with regulatorsand authorities to support the development of emerging frameworks governing maritime autonomy. The company said the partnership expands its ongoing efforts to certify autonomous vessel systems, building on existing work with the American Bureau of Shipping.
“Autonomy is fundamentally reshaping maritime operations, and as Saronic expands its presence across the United Kingdom, Europe, and Australia, we are excited to partner with Lloyd’s Register, a leading authority on maritime safety and sustainability.
“As we work together in these key markets, we are committed to ensuring our autonomous maritime capabilities meet a high bar for safety and security while aligning technological innovation with forward-looking frameworks that build trust and confidence in the safe operation of this emerging class of vessels,” said Dino Mavrookas, Co-Founder and CEO of Saronic Technologies.
“Through this partnership with Saronic, LR is helping to shape the standards, verification pathways and regulatory approaches needed to support the safe and scalable adoption of marine autonomous vehicles,” added David Lloyd, Vice-President Naval and Government Business at LR.
Researchers aim to develop AI robots to help shipbuilders adapt
Researchers from the University of Michigan Engineering and Massachusetts Institute of Technology are partnering with Japanese institutions to develop AI-powered robots that help shipbuilders adapt when real-world construction no longer matches the original ship design.
The project is backed by a $6.2 million grant from Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism and is overseen by NYK Line’s Monohakobi Technology Institute. Shipbuilding often faces problems because pipes, cables, and equipment may arrive late or be installed out of sequence due to scheduling pressure. As a result, later components may no longer fit properly, forcing costly rework and delays.
The new system aims to reduce that risk by using autonomous robots equipped with LiDAR and cameras to scan the ship as it is being built. AI models will compare the “as-built” structure against a digital twin of the intended design and automatically flag mismatches or future risks. The AI assistant is designed as a “co-pilot” for shipyard workers rather than a replacement. When it detects a problem, such as blocked access routes or pipes that no longer fit, it will suggest alternative solutions and explain the tradeoffs. The system will also identify where sensor data is incomplete so human workers can step in when needed.
To train the AI, researchers will simulate shipbuilding scenarios and interview experienced tradespeople in both the U.S. and Japan so the recommendations reflect real shipyard decision-making. The technology will be tested using a reconfigurable “Shipbuilding Test Block,” a physical mock-up of ship sections that can recreate different construction stages and outfitting challenges.
New data system aims to automate emissions reporting at ports
Awake.AI and Tidalis have partnered to integrate emissions monitoring into vessel traffic and port management systems used by ports, coastguards and maritime authorities worldwide.
The combined system will aim to automate emissions reporting by using operational data such as port calls, fuelling, cargo handling, shore power and gate events. It is designed to help ports, terminals and shipping companies meet growing regulatory requirements tied to FuelEU Maritime, the EU ETS and IMO decarbonization targets.
The platform aims to reduce manual reporting and improve visibility into Scope 1–3 emissions across port and vessel operations. Awake.AI CEO Karno Tenovuo explained that the challenge for ports is converting large volumes of operational data into reliable, auditable emissions reporting that supports both compliance and operational decisions.
By Rick Kirton
How cutting-edge tech is shaping the future of boating
The rise of artificial intelligence on the water
AI-powered systems are making waves in the boating industry. These innovative systems offer autonomous navigation, collision avoidance, and real-time data monitoring features. Using sensors and algorithms, AI can interpret environmental conditions like wind, waves, and currents, enabling boats to make real-time adjustments for optimal performance and safety.
For instance, autonomous docking systems now allow boats to manoeuvre into tight spots without human intervention. This primarily benefits novice boaters, reducing the stress of navigating busy marinas. Additionally, AI-powered apps provide boaters with real-time updates on weather, fuel consumption, and maintenance needs, creating a more informed and enjoyable boating experience.
Electric propulsion
The shift toward sustainability has spurred the adoption of electric propulsion in the boating industry. Traditional internal combustion engines are being replaced by electric motors, which are quieter, cleaner, and more efficient. Companies like X Shore and Torqeedo lead the charge, offering electric boats that minimize environmental impact without compromising performance.
Electric boats cut emissions and reduce noise pollution, making them a popular choice for those who prioritize preserving marine life. With advancements in battery technology, electric boats are now capable of longer ranges, making them viable options for both recreational and commercial use.
Connected systems
The Internet of Things (IoT) brings unprecedented connectivity to the boating world. IoT-enabled boats allow users to monitor and control systems remotely via smartphone or tablet. Imagine turning on your boat’s air conditioning or checking its fuel levels from the comfort of your home. IoT integration also enhances safety by alerting boaters to potential issues such as bilge flooding or engine malfunctions.
Fleet management is another area benefiting from IoT technology. Commercial operators can track multiple vessels in real-time, optimizing routes and ensuring timely maintenance. This level of connectivity enhances operational efficiency, saving time and money while improving overall safety.
Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR): A new dimension in boating
Virtual and augmented reality are enhancing the boating experience in exciting ways. VR is used for boat design and training, allowing manufacturers and buyers to explore vessels in a virtual environment before they are built. This technology helps identify design flaws early and offers potential buyers a more immersive shopping experience.
AR, on the other hand, is improving navigation and maintenance. AR headsets or displays can overlay navigational information onto the real world, helping boaters identify landmarks, hazards, and optimal routes. Maintenance crews can also use AR to visualize internal systems and identify issues without dismantling components, saving time and reducing costs.
Advanced materials
The materials used to construct boats are also evolving. Lightweight composites, 3D-printed components, and graphene-infused materials make boats more substantial, lighter, and fuel-efficient. These advanced materials improve performance and enhance durability, reducing the need for frequent repairs.
For example, 3D printing allows manufacturers to create complex parts, precisely reducing waste and production costs. This technology is particularly valuable for custom boat designs, enabling faster prototyping and shorter production timelines.
The Future of boating
While these advancements are exciting, the boating industry remains rooted in its traditions. The challenge lies in blending the timeless allure of the water with modern technology to create an experience that appeals to both seasoned mariners and new enthusiasts. With continued investment in research and development, the future of boating looks brighter than ever.
As these technologies become more accessible, they promise to revolutionize the industry, making boating safer, more sustainable, and more enjoyable. Whether you’re a weekend sailor, a commercial operator, or an aspiring boat owner, the innovations on the horizon will surely enhance your time on the water.
The waves are changing, and the boating industry is confidently steering into uncharted territories. These technological breakthroughs redefine what’s possible and ensure that future generations can enjoy the beauty and adventure of boating.
For more information: https://lucasshanechittum.com/
By Lucas Shane Chittum
The rise of AI in the maritime Industry
Artificial intelligence use continues to grow with the maritime AI market nearly tripling in size between 2023 and 2024, according to a Thetius report. AI continues its increasing contribution to the maritime sector, with one of the latest uses being ship condition monitoring. Artificial intelligence (AI) can help to test machinery and diagnose any potential problems on the ship.
But while it may offer positives, Condition Monitoring Technologies (CMT) has recently cautioned against placing too much reliance on AI in this field. Human involvement is still vital to make sure that maritime operations remain accurate and safe, it reports.
CMT’s Managing Director David Fuhlbrügge commented that while AI still has a role to play – for instance, in analysing huge data sets generated during operations – there are still “critical limitations in relying on technology alone”. In particular, CMT argues that human involvement is crucial when it comes to handling data – checking, interpreting and then dealing with information is especially important in the cases of automated vessels.
“A sensor can tell you a pressure reading or temperature value,” explained Mr Fuhlbrügge. “It cannot smell burning oil, feel excessive vibration or recognise an unusual sound in the engine room. That’s where human intuition, experience and judgement come in.”
A valid argument for human involvement is that AI lacks that gut instinct in the case of any issues. Professionals can draw upon years of training and experience to recognise if there is any cause for concern. Another problem with using AI for ship condition monitoring is the cost and logistics involved of placing sensors all around the ship – and in the event of these systems failing, this can only reinforce the need for a human presence.
AI working in other areas
While a cautious approach is advised with respect to human involvement, AI usage presses ahead in a number of maritime sectors. A collaboration between Lloyd’s Register and Microsoft’s Azure OpenAI service has seen the technology being used to enhance the regulatory process for nuclear technology.
Lloyd’s Register Global Offshore Power To X Director, Mark Tipping, explained that AI can swiftly interrogate from a huge data source in order to “identify good practice and lessons learned”. Deputy Chief Technology and Innovation Officer, Jeff Scott, added that AI can cut through the “red tape” to “fast-track the future of nuclear in maritime”.
In terms of protecting cargo, a March 2025 report from the International Union of Marine Insurance said that AI can help to optimise the fastest and safest transportation routes. Using predictive analytics and the study of weather conditions, AI can help to protect cargo by helping to plot the smoothest courses that eschew rough seas and thus, potential spillage of commodities such as foods, drinks and other perishable goods.
Meanwhile, research at Osaka Metropolitan University has resulted in a AI-driven fluid dynamics breakthrough. The researchers claim that their new machine learning-powered fluid simulation model can maintain accuracy while drastically lowering computation time rates – they say that this can boost industries such as offshore power, ship designing and real-time ocean monitoring.
Let’s not be blinded by the promise of the full autonomous ship. Human engineers are not a relic of the past. They’re the best safeguard we have for a safe and reliable future at sea.”
Reducing operational costs in the maritime industry using AI
As digitalization continues to drive operational efficiency and streamline processes in the shipping industry, Artificial Intelligence (AI) stands out as a transformative technology. First introduced in the mid-20th century as a theoretical concept, AI has since evolved into a practical tool reshaping industries worldwide. In the maritime sector, its impact is profound, unlocking new levels of reliability, accuracy, and effectiveness, as well as paving the way for a more innovative and efficient future. From predictive maintenance to energy management, its applications are revolutionizing the industry.
Automation Opportunities in Maritime Operations
AI-driven systems for automated vessel navigation improve efficiency, reducing fuel consumption by up to 10% and cutting transit times by 5%. These systems use real-time data to adjust ship movements, enhancing safety and lowering the risk of accidents. Automation in cargo handling and port operations streamlines processes, from loading and unloading to inventory management.
AI ensures accurate cargo tracking, minimizing delays and errors in port logistics. In ship operations, these advancements predict maintenance needs, preventing breakdowns and costly repairs. Integrating AI into these areas enhances safety by reducing manual errors and ensuring smoother, faster operations. With AI handling repetitive tasks, human workers can focus on more strategic roles, reducing risks and improving overall productivity.
Real examples of AI implementations
Artificial Intelligence is transforming the shipping industry by optimizing operations, reducing costs, and driving sustainability. Below are three compelling case studies highlighting successful implementations in various regions worldwide.
1. CMA CGM’s AI for Route Planning
CMA CGM, a leading global shipping company based in France, employs AI to optimize vessel routes by assessing historical data and real-time conditions to determine the most fuel-efficient paths. The AI platform analyzes weather forecasts, maritime traffic, and port conditions, making route adjustments dynamically according to vessel-specific parameters such as fuel consumption and speed. This approach has led to reduced
fuel consumption, lower costs, fewer greenhouse gas emissions, improved punctuality, enhanced reliability, and greater customer satisfaction, delivering both environmental and operational advantages.
2. Port of Rotterdam’s Smart Container Management
The Netherlands’ Port of Rotterdam, Europe’s largest port, has implemented AI-powered systems to optimize cargo handling and stowage planning, enhancing efficiency and throughput. The system uses predictive analytics to determine the most efficient loading and unloading sequences, considering factors including schedules, container weights, and destinations. Real-time data is integrated to enhance the usage of cranes and other equipment, ensuring smoother operations. Therefore, the port has seen faster ship turnaround times, reduced congestion, and a more streamlined logistics flow that minimizes delays, leading to greater operational efficiency and performance.
3. Orient Overseas Container Line
In Hong Kong, Orient Overseas Container Line (OOCL) has implemented an AI-driven fuel monitoring system designed to optimize fuel consumption and enhance environmental performance throughout its fleet. This system integrates with onboard sensors to analyze engine performance, sea conditions, and speed in real time, allowing AI algorithms to predict optimal operating conditions that minimize fuel usage. As a result, OOCL has achieved significant reductions in fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
Singapore’s maritime sector to fast-track AI adoption
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and the Singapore Shipping Association (SSA) has announced a partnership to accelerate the adoption of AI among maritime companies to improve productivity and strengthen competitiveness.
In parallel with the announcement of the Singapore Maritime Technology & Research Roadmap 2026, which sets out a vision to position Singapore as a global leader in maritime innovation, MPA Singapore and SSA signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) under which they will support maritime companies in adopting AI across key functions, including ship agency, ship management and chartering, shipping operations and bunkering.
Under this initiative, companies will gain access to a curated knowledge base of maritime AI use cases to guide their adoption strategies, connect with solution providers, and pilot AI applications within their own operating environments. Furthermore, they can also draw on AI Singapore’s AI Readiness Index (AIRI) framework to understand their AI maturity and guide their next steps.
Tagged sharks could improve climate forecasts
A new study shows that electronically tagged sharks can serve as mobile sensors, collecting ocean climate data in regions that are difficult to observe using conventional methods. The study was led by Laura H. McDonnell, Ph.D., who conducted the research as a doctoral student at the University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science and the Abess Center for Ecosystem Science and Policy. By incorporating shark-collected data into a seasonal climate model,
McDonnell and her team found that forecast errors at the ocean surface decreased substantially in certain regions, with improvements reaching as much as 40 percent in specific cases. This is the first study to experimentally integrate animal-borne sensor data into a seasonal climate model and quantify its impact on forecast performance, suggesting potential for future operational use.
“Sharks are already moving through parts of the ocean that are challenging for us to observe,” said McDonnell, now a postdoctoral investigator at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI). “This research shows that data they collect can help fill important gaps and, when used carefully, can improve how we predict ocean conditions.”
Satellite tags attached to sharks record depth and temperature as they travel through the ocean, collecting and transmitting this data in near real time. Marine predators like sharks naturally seek out dynamic ocean features such as fronts and eddies.
By John Bensalhia