INDUSTRY REPORT
• Carbon offsetting: Many operators are investing in carbon offset programmes to meet immediate regulatory demands.
3. Cybersecurity: As ships become smarter and more connected, they are increasingly vulnerable to cyberattacks. In 2025, maritime companies are focusing on robust cybersecurity measures to protect critical systems and data.
4. Crew welfare and training: The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of crew welfare, and this trend continues in 2025. Ship managers are investing in initiatives to attract and retain skilled seafarers. Digital training tools( such as virtual reality and augmented reality) are being used to provide immersive training experiences for crew members.
5. Autonomous shipping: While fully autonomous ships are still a vision for the future, significant advances in automation are shaping the maritime industry in 2025.
The digital revolution is reshaping how fleets are managed
Marine technology and equipment suppliers are integrating alternative fuels and advancing energy efficiency as well as digitalisation.
The shipbuilding industry is navigating significant growth, retention and sustainability challenges. The industry struggles to attract and retain skilled workers. Investing in education and training programmes can address workforce shortages and help to develop a skilled workforce. Government policies that support shipbuilding, such as funding for research and development, tax incentives and streamlining regulations, can also help stimulate demand and innovation.
• Semi-autonomous vessels: Automated navigation systems and remote monitoring capabilities are becoming more common.
• Regulatory developments: Authorities are working on frameworks to manage autonomous operations, ensuring safety and compliance.
6. Resilience in supply chains: The global supply-chain disruptions of recent years have prompted maritime companies to prioritise resilience in 2025.
• Diversified port operations: Companies are reducing reliance on a single hub by diversifying their port calls.
• Smart ports: Ports are leveraging automation, AI and IoT to streamline cargo handling and reduce delays.
Top maritime trends
According to maritime software designer, SpecTec, here are the top maritime trends to watch in 2025.
1. Digital transformation accelerates: The digital revolution is reshaping how fleets are managed. In 2025, maritime companies are increasingly adopting technologies like IoT( Internet of Things), AI-driven analytics and blockchain to enhance operational efficiency and decision-making.
Image: Shutterstock. com.
“ By focusing on digital transformation, compliance, crew welfare and innovation, ship owners, operators and managers can ensure that their fleets remain competitive in the ever-changing maritime landscape,” concluded SpecTec. n
2. Stricter environmental regulations: The pressure to meet global sustainability goals is intensifying. Regulations, such as the IMO’ s greenhouse gas strategy, mandate significant emissions reductions by 2030, making compliance a top priority in 2025.
• Alternative fuels: LNG( liquefied natural gas), biofuels and even hydrogen are gaining traction as shipping companies explore low-carbon alternatives.
• Energy-efficiency technologies: Wind-assisted propulsion and air lubrication systems are being tested and adopted.
The Pioner is an example of a 3D-printed boat( RISE / Cipax).
28 | ismr. net | ISMR June 2025