Automation and artificial intelligence are rapidly transforming modern shipping, replacing traditional watchkeeping with remote monitoring and decision-support systems. While these advancements improve efficiency, they have reduced hands-on interaction with machinery, limiting the development of instinctive skills once critical to engineers and officers. Increased reliance on alarms and AI systems has also introduced new risks, including alarm fatigue, reduced situational awareness, and uncertainty in decision-making.

At the same time, these changes are impacting seafarer welfare. The shift to “passive vigilance” creates cognitive stress, while growing automation and autonomous vessel development raise concerns about job security and long-term career paths. As highlighted in , the industry must balance technological progress with human skill development to ensure safety, confidence, and sustainability in the maritime workforce.