The maritime industry is no stranger to technological disruption. From steam engines to GPS, each innovation has reshaped operations, crew dynamics, and safety protocols. Now, artificial intelligence (AI) is the latest frontier, promising efficiency gains but raising critical questions about seafarer roles, cybersecurity, and ethical deployment. As AI adoption accelerates, the industry must navigate its complexities with the same adaptability that has defined maritime progress for centuries.
AI’s role in maritime is evolving rapidly. Thetius and Marcura’s recent report, *Beyond the Hype: what the maritime industry really thinks about AI… and where they’re making it work*, reveals that 82% of respondents view AI as a tool to boost efficiency and reduce manual workload. This isn’t just theoretical—81% are already running pilot projects, proving that AI is no longer a distant prospect but a present reality. The pace of adoption has shifted from decades to years, a testament to the industry’s growing comfort with digital transformation.
Yet, as Neil Nadkar, a former engineer and Nautilus member, points out, AI’s impact on seafarers is a double-edged sword. While automation can enhance safety by identifying risky behaviour and predicting incidents, the extent of its deployment is critical. Nadkar’s research suggests that partial automation—where AI overrides human decisions—could compromise safety, whereas low automation, where humans remain in control with data support, maintains operational integrity. Fully automated vessels, on the other hand, risk catastrophic failure due to AI’s limitations in handling emergencies, such as distress communications or piracy threats.
The human factor remains central to AI’s success. The Thetius report highlights that perceptions of AI depend on whether individuals feel empowered or sidelined by it. Where AI enhances expertise and control, acceptance grows. Where it threatens job security, resistance builds. This tension underscores the need for tailored training and human-centred adoption. As Nadkar emphasises, unions must remain vigilant, ensuring that seafarers are not left behind. Training must evolve to integrate AI as a tool that augments, rather than replaces, maritime professionals’ skills and experience.
Cybersecurity is another pressing concern. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has identified cyber threats as a major disruption risk, with AI-assisted navigation systems increasingly vulnerable to attacks. A breach could reroute ships, endanger crew and cargo, or disrupt supply chains. The Thetius report echoes this, with 61% of respondents citing cybersecurity and data privacy as key challenges. Robust data frameworks and intentional adoption strategies are essential to mitigate these risks.
The maritime industry’s history of adaptation offers valuable lessons. From steam engines to electronic navigation, each technological shift has required new skills and safety protocols. AI is no different. The key lies in collaboration—between shipowners, unions, and seafarers—to ensure that AI is deployed responsibly, with a focus on safety, training, and job security. As Nadkar notes, shipping cannot function without seafarers, and AI should be seen as a tool to improve their working lives, not replace them.
The path forward is clear: AI must be embraced, but with caution. The industry must address its limitations, invest in training, and prioritise cybersecurity. By doing so, it can harness AI’s potential while safeguarding the seafarers who remain the backbone of maritime operations. The future of shipping isn’t just about technology—it’s about people.