New Technology

Landmark support for shipping innovation with publication of Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) Code

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Landmark support for shipping innovation with publication of Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) Code
Landmark support for shipping innovation with publication of Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) Code

A landmark international code, the Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) Code, was published on 1 July, paving the way for stronger, clearer global standards supporting technology, innovation and safety at sea.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has launched the non-mandatory MASS Code which provides the first international regulatory framework for remotely operated and autonomous cargo ships covered under SOLAS Chapter I. It was drafted at the IMO with the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) taking a leading role to uphold UK interests. The UK will ultimately use the high-level principles to bring forward national legislation in close consultation with the maritime sector. Continue reading “Landmark support for shipping innovation with publication of Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) Code”

AI Technology in marine surveying: A utility assessment

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AI Technology in marine surveying: A utility assessment
AI Technology in marine surveying: A utility assessment

Marine surveying has long been regarded as a profession which has been shaped (not merely) by technical knowledge, but by experience, instinct and judgement, developed over years at sea, in shipyards and “on job training”. Traditionally, a marine surveyor arrives on board equipped with a notebook, camera, torchlight and (most importantly) a trained eye. Observations are handwritten, photographs are selectively taken and conclusions are drawn based on evaluation of accumulated knowledge of vessel’s operations, machinery behaviour and assessment of real-world failure patterns.

Today, however, the emergence of artificial intelligence has introduced a new dimension to surveying. An “AI Surveyor” can process documents, interpret images, analyse certificates and identify inconsistencies within seconds. Tasks that once required years of experience can now be (partially) replicated by a digital model. Continue reading “AI Technology in marine surveying: A utility assessment”

Could nuclear power work on boats?

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Could nuclear power work on boats?
Could nuclear power work on boats?

For decades, diesel has powered almost every large vessel on the water. It is reliable, energy-dense, and supported by a global refuelling network. But as the marine industry looks toward lower-emission alternatives, new ideas are starting to surface. Hydrogen has already entered the conversation for superyachts. Now, an even more ambitious concept is being explored; nuclear power. Continue reading “Could nuclear power work on boats?”

Latest guidance for shipping lithium-ion cells and batteries in containers

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Guidance for shipping lithium-ion cells and batteries in containers has been published
Guidance for shipping lithium-ion cells and batteries in containers has been published

In response to the growing risks associated with the maritime transport and shipping lithium-ion cells and batteries, the following guidance for shipping lithium-ion cells and batteries in containers has been published. Lithium-ion cells are the core components of batteries and come in various forms, as they are widely used in portable electronics and electric vehicles because they can efficiently store and release energy through the movement of lithium ions between positive and negative electrodes. However, due to their chemical properties, lithium-ion cells and batteries are classified as dangerous goods and must be handled with care. Released against a backdrop of rising concern, the guidance comes as battery-related incidents at sea become both more frequent and more severe. Continue reading “Latest guidance for shipping lithium-ion cells and batteries in containers”

DNV interview on cruise ship battery technology

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DNV interview on cruise ship battery technology
DNV interview on cruise ship battery technology

As cruise operators explore pathways to reduce emissions and improve energy efficiency, batteries are emerging as a pragmatic part of the solution.

DNV has shared a fact-based interview featuring Hilde Bølstad, DNV’s Principal Consultant of Alternative Fuels & GHG Compliance on how batteries fit into cruise vessel design and operation.

Hilde Bølstad is an MSc‑ and BSc‑qualified maritime advisor with 23 years’ experience in ship operations, classification, and surveyor work. Since 2020, she has worked in decarbonization at DNV, supporting shipowners on new regulations and reporting of emissions. Continue reading “DNV interview on cruise ship battery technology”

Brookes Bell on engineering analysis when the answer isn’t clear

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Brookes Bell on engineering analysis when the answer isn’t clear
Brookes Bell on engineering analysis when the answer isn’t clear

Engineering claims rarely begin with a complete picture, says Brookes Bell. More often, they start with partial evidence, damaged components, and an initial explanation of what may have gone wrong. In practice, those early assumptions are not always reliable.

For Andrew Kingshott, recognising and managing this uncertainty is a fundamental part of the investigation process. Continue reading “Brookes Bell on engineering analysis when the answer isn’t clear”

Lithium-ion Battery Fires: What We Know So Far – edition 2 published

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Edition 2 of the lithium-ion battery fires: What we know so far guide has been published
Edition 2 of the lithium-ion battery fires: What we know so far guide has been published

In edition 2 of the “Lithium-ion Battery Fires: What We Know So Far”, the Maritime Professional Council of the UK (MPC) warns of the rising risks and dangers of lithium-ion battery fires to ships, boats and their crews.

The maritime industry faces increasing incidents and fires due to lithium-ion technology, particularly with the growing use of electric vehicles (EVs) and a myriad of devices powered by these batteries. Lithium-ion batteries have a high energy density, making them efficient but also prone to catastrophic failures if mishandled. Continue reading “Lithium-ion Battery Fires: What We Know So Far – edition 2 published”

VIMMS Sea Trial Results and System Benefits

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VIMMS Sea Trial Results and System Benefits
VIMMS Sea Trial Results and System Benefits

1 Introduction

The Vessel Impact and Motion Monitoring System (VIMMS) was used to assess potential for acute and chronic injuries during maritime operations on small vessels (under 24 metres), and demonstrate the capability for data to assist in injury risk management and operational decision-making. The system combines real-time acceleration monitoring with whole- body vibration (WBV) exposure tracking, enabling operators and management to identify and mitigate both acute and chronic injury risks. Continue reading “VIMMS Sea Trial Results and System Benefits”

The new Axopar Digital Product Passport

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The new Axopar Digital Product Passport
The new Axopar Digital Product Passport

Axopar has announced its entry into the Aura Blockchain consortium with its new product – the Axopar Digital product Passport. This collaboration marks the arrival of the nautical sector in an ecosystem already active in luxury goods and watchmaking. The aim is to create a digital passport for each boat, designed to structure data over the entire lifespan of the craft.

The issue of traceability and reliability of information is becoming central to pleasure boating. Axopar is taking a step forward by joining the Aura Blockchain consortium, with the announced launch of a digital passport for its boats from spring 2026. An initiative that goes beyond customer relations to touch on broader industrial issues. Continue reading “The new Axopar Digital Product Passport”

Consortium advances design of new medium-sized uncrewed support vessels

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Consortium advances design of new medium-sized uncrewed support vessels
Consortium advances design of new medium-sized uncrewed support vessels

A UK-led consortium has secured government backing to develop a new class of medium-sized uncrewed support vessels (USVs), marking a significant step forward in maritime innovation.

As Brookes Bell explained, the project MROS consortium, headed by unmanned systems specialist Acua Ocean, was awarded funding in May 2025 under the Department for Transport’s Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC) programme. Continue reading “Consortium advances design of new medium-sized uncrewed support vessels”

Legacy and Innovation

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Legacy and Innovation
Legacy and Innovation

Industry leaders are merging old school tradition and principles with modern innovation, developing designs that meet sometimes diverging industry demands – a clash between legacy and innovation.

The roots of naval architecture are steeped in tradition with knowledge passed down through generations. Scientific ship design in the 18th century introduced mathematical models used to inform hull design while the Industrial Revolution brought iron and steam, revolutionizing design, materials science and propulsion.

The 21st century ushered in the digital transformation alongside essential new tools in the naval architect’s arsenal. Advanced CAD technology, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data-driven modelling are now used to optimize designs. From concept through a ship’s lifecycle, digital twins enable predictive maintenance and monitoring to model fuel consumption across voyage profiles. Continue reading “Legacy and Innovation”

Surge in EV transportation exposes gaps in maritime safety rules procurement

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Surge in EV transportation exposes gaps in maritime safety rules procurement
Surge in EV transportation exposes gaps in maritime safety rules procurement

Industry experts have said the rapid rise in EV (electric Vehicle) transportation exposes gaps in maritime safety rules, says Steam Marine Technical.

High-profile shipboard fires involving EVs, such as those on the Felicity Ace, Morning Midas and the Freemantle Highway, have highlighted the dangers and significant risks. While lithium-ion battery fires and thermal runaway events aren’t always the initial cause, they significantly escalate onboard fires when EVs are involved, yet current International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulations don’t adequately address this risk. Whilst the IMO develops updated guidelines, comprehensive regulations specific to EV transport aren’t expected until at least 2028. Continue reading “Surge in EV transportation exposes gaps in maritime safety rules procurement”

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