Autonomous cargo ships, also known as autonomous container ships or maritime autonomous surface ships (MASS), are crewless vessels that transport either containers or bulk cargo over navigable waters with little or no human interaction.

Technological innovation within the maritime industry is resulting in rapid developments that will see the commercial use of autonomous ships, whether they are controlled remotely or are fully autonomous.

6 days ago · Autonomous ships have the potential to reduce the environmental impact of maritime shipping, one of the largest contributors to global emissions. Through advanced technologies, automation could enable more efficient fuel use, reduced emissions, and better compliance with environmental regulations. However, the extent of these benefits will ...

4 days ago · Autonomous shipping is still a lightly regulated space. IMO is currently addressing this by developing a code for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) – a definition which aligns with DNV’s definition of “autonomous and remotely operated vessels”. MASS is expected to be voluntarily applicable from 2025, but not mandatory until 2032.

Jan 31, 2025 · Autonomous ships, also known as unmanned vessels, are designed to navigate and perform various operational tasks using advanced sensors, artificial intelligence (AI), and communication systems....

Feb 27, 2023 · Ships and ports are ripe for operation without humans — but only if the maritime industry can work through the practical, legal and economic implications first.

DNV has launched a new family of class notations, Autonomous and Remotely Operated Ships (AROS), providing a framework for how autoremote vessels can achieve equivalent or higher safety compared to conventional vessels.

Mar 7, 2024 · Autonomy, robotics and remote operation, along with artificial intelligence, will transform all transport sectors. Maritime will be no different and experiments are under way around the globe....

Aug 8, 2024 · Autonomous ships could transform the maritime environment. These ships use various technologies to control speed and direction, avoid collisions, and navigate. This Q&A discusses autonomous ships and how the Coast Guard—the federal agency responsible for the safety of U.S. waterways—regulates them.

Jul 21, 2023 · After introducing the first concept in the 1970s, many developed countries tried to evolve autonomous ships innovation. Even so, International Maritime Organization (IMO) try to develop the concept, definition, and regulation to espouse the existence of this innovative project. Challenges and obstacles escort autonomous ship development.