The maritime simulators market is on a roll, and the latest report from ResearchAndMarkets.com spells out why. Valued at $1.78 billion in 2025, the market is set to hit $1.9 billion in 2026, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.7%. The growth isn’t just about numbers—it’s about a seismic shift in how the industry trains its people and prepares for the future.
The drivers? Increased maritime traffic, a hunger for skilled personnel, and regulatory mandates. But the real game-changers are the advancements in simulation technologies, particularly the adoption of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) in maritime training. These technologies are transforming dry, theoretical training into immersive, hands-on experiences.
“Rising adoption of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) in maritime training, along with growing investments by shipping companies, are further fueling this expansion,” the report notes. This isn’t just about flashy tech for its own sake. VR and AR create environments where trainees can encounter and navigate real-world scenarios—from handling emergencies to optimizing vessel operations—without the risks.
Looking ahead, the market is projected to grow to $2.42 billion by 2030, with a CAGR of 6.2%. Key drivers include the expansion of autonomous and smart ship technologies, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) for predictive training, and the increasing demand for remote and cloud-based simulation solutions. These trends are reshaping the market landscape, making training more accessible, scalable, and effective.
The emphasis on maritime safety is a critical factor bolstering market expansion. Simulators provide risk-free training environments that enhance crew readiness and reduce human error, thereby meeting international safety standards. For example, the Seamen’s Church Institute reported a 13% rise in mariner training activities in 2023, highlighting the growing importance of safety and skills development.
Leading companies like Danelec Electronics A/S are at the forefront of this innovation. Their advanced ship-handling simulation platforms promote real-time optimization and decision-making. Danelec’s latest tool enables LNG carriers to achieve significant fuel savings and enhances operational efficiency. In a strategic move, Danelec acquired AI-specialist Nautilus Labs Inc. in November 2023, further strengthening its capabilities in vessel optimization and fleet performance monitoring.
The market features prominent players such as Lockheed Martin Corporation, BAE Systems Plc, Thales Group, and Kongsberg Maritime AS. While North America dominated the market in 2025, Asia-Pacific is anticipated to become the fastest-growing region, driven by expanding maritime trade and training infrastructure.
Global trade dynamics and tariffs are impacting production timelines, particularly for hardware components in Europe and North America, but are also nurturing local manufacturing capabilities. The market includes service revenues from training, certification, maintenance, and more, alongside hardware and software sales. Countries like the US, China, and Germany are key markets, with growth supported by advances in training technology and regulatory compliance.
The maritime simulators market is more than just a niche industry—it’s a cornerstone of the future of maritime safety and efficiency. With projections underpinned by technological developments, the market remains poised for continued expansion, offering comprehensive training solutions to support the evolving needs of the global maritime industry.