SeaBot Maritime is charting a new course in South West England, partnering with the University of Plymouth to expand its maritime autonomy training programs. This isn’t just a geographic shift—it’s a strategic move that could reshape the UK’s autonomous maritime landscape.
The partnership, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), brings together SeaBot Maritime’s industry-leading expertise in maritime skills development with the University of Plymouth’s world-class research and educational capabilities. The University’s recognition as the National Centre for Marine Autonomy by the UK Government adds weight to this collaboration, setting the stage for innovation, research, and skills development in marine autonomy.
The MoU outlines three key pillars: developing and delivering training programs, advancing research in autonomous maritime systems, and preparing the future workforce. This isn’t just about teaching the basics—it’s about co-designing new courses, creating additional learning modules, and integrating SeaBot Maritime’s MASS Remote Operator Certification into the University’s course portfolio.
The partnership also aims to develop standards for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS), a critical step in shaping the future of autonomous maritime operations. The potential to create a dedicated future skills training centre for marine autonomy underscores the long-term vision of this collaboration.
The University of Plymouth’s facilities will be used to deliver and develop both existing and new courses. University staff will be trained to deliver SeaBot Maritime courses, and joint funding opportunities will be explored to support training posts and collaborative projects. This isn’t just about scaling up—it’s about embedding expertise and fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation.
Looking ahead, the partnership sets the stage for collaborative research and funding initiatives at both national and international levels. The joint effort aims to advance academic and industry knowledge, inform the global maritime community, and open new avenues for commercial collaboration.
Building on the success of its Solent-based programs, SeaBot Maritime will roll out its proven training model in the South West, with courses commencing in 2026. This expansion strengthens the network of autonomous maritime professionals across the UK and positions the country as a leader in maritime autonomy.
As the maritime industry navigates the complexities of autonomy, partnerships like this one are crucial. They bridge the gap between academia and industry, fostering a collaborative environment that drives innovation and prepares the workforce for the future. This isn’t just about keeping up with the times—it’s about setting the pace.