Risks & Opportunities of Autonomous Shipping: should shipping go autonomous?

Abstract

This thesis explores the feasibility of implementing autonomous shipping and its potential business model in operating Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS). It provides a brief historical overview before analysing existing literature to identify possible application areas for MASS. In addition, a few Master Mariners who have transitioned to shore-based roles were interviewed to validate the findings and gauge interest in further exploration. The collected data was then subjected to a SWOT analysis to summarise the information.

MASS offers potential in specific sectors. They provide increased efficiency, decreased expenses, and heightened safety, but regulatory issues, human factors, and liability concerns must be resolved. The importance of customer value within the operational model will continue to drive the need for functional change. The role of humans in seafaring trade will hinge on trade, legislation, and connectivity, but people will undoubtedly play a role.