World’s First Autonomous Passenger Ship To Begin Service In Japan

Japan is set to begin service of the world’s first commercial autonomous passenger ship. The vessel, Olympia Dream Seto, will operate between Okayama city and Shodoshima island in western Japan.

The ferry has been officially certified by the Japanese government as an “autonomous ship”, making it the first passenger vessel in the world to carry ordinary travellers using automated navigation.

The project aims to tackle crew shortages and reduce accidents caused by human error.

Passengers and system personnel have already started familiarisation trips this week. Full commercial operations are expected by the end of fiscal 2025, which concludes on 31 March 2026, according to The Nippon Foundation.

The Olympia Dream Seto can operate fully automatically under certain conditions. Its sensors detect surroundings, adjust the course, avoid obstacles, and control the rudder and propeller. Manual control can be used in case of danger.

The autonomous ship project began in 2020, led by The Nippon Foundation in partnership with shipping, shipbuilding, communications, and trading companies in Japan. Three more vessels are planned to begin autonomous commercial operations by the end of March next year.

The foundation’s executive director, Mitsuyuki Unno, said Japan is ahead of other countries in autonomous passenger ships and hopes the project will help shape international rules for autonomous maritime operations.

References: nationthailand, japantimes

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