RAG Technology in Maritime: SQLearn’s Smart AI Solution for Daily Operations
June 17, 2025
The Challenge: Information Overload in Maritime Operations
Maritime operations depend heavily on extensive documentation—Safety Management System (SMS) manuals, company policies, technical guidelines, and compliance rules. These documents are crucial but often span hundreds or thousands of pages. Crew members and managers require quick and precise access to protocols, maintenance instructions, or regulatory updates, especially when time is critical.
Traditional search methods like manual lookups or keyword searches are slow and can lead to mistakes. This slows down operations, delays responses, and increases safety risks.
The Solution: Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG)
RAG systems combine document search with large language models (LLMs), such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT, to provide fast, accurate answers. Instead of relying on memory or guessing, users ask natural-language questions. The AI then finds the most relevant document sections—like those in an SMS—and delivers clear, context-specific answers.
For instance, if a chief engineer asks, “What are the procedures for enclosed space entry on our tankers?” the system retrieves the exact SMS passages and provides a concise summary highlighting key steps and recent updates. This ensures answers are precise and aligned with company-specific policies.
Everyday Use Cases: AI in Action
- Rapid Compliance Checks: Instantly verify policies during inspections or audits to reduce non-compliance risk.
- Maintenance and Technical Support: Ask for troubleshooting steps or servicing schedules based on actual vessel documentation. AI can even suggest when equipment might need attention using predictive analytics.
- Incident Response: Access emergency protocols quickly, helping crews respond safely and efficiently.
- Fleet Management: Shore teams can monitor safety trends, benchmark performance, and make proactive decisions.
- Training and Onboarding: New crew members can learn faster with AI-powered Q&A, cutting down training time.
Why Human Oversight Still Matters
Despite AI’s benefits, human review remains essential in critical situations. AI-generated responses should be checked to ensure accuracy and maintain trust. When AI supports rather than replaces human decision-making, it strengthens confidence and operational safety.
Why RAG Works for Maritime SMS
Maritime SMS documents are complex and unique to each company. RAG handles unstructured text well and understands vessel-specific terminology. It respects internal interpretations of rules and delivers precise answers reflecting your company’s standards—not generic ones.
Successful use requires quality data, user training, and ongoing collaboration between AI developers and maritime professionals. Following these steps lets shipping companies turn their SMS from static files into interactive tools that support safe, efficient operations.
How to Leverage AI: Introducing CaptAIn Premium
CaptAIn Premium is SQLearn’s AI assistant built specifically for maritime organizations. It integrates with your SMS, procedures, and internal documents to provide instant, accurate answers.
- Embeds your company’s documents, policies, and workflows
- Offers 24/7 access to company knowledge and international regulations
- Supports multiple languages for global crews
- Features an intuitive, learner-focused interface
- Improves training, compliance, and emergency readiness
With CaptAIn, managing complex procedures becomes simpler and information overload is reduced. Every employee can quickly access relevant, reliable knowledge—whether supporting daily operations, boosting safety, or enhancing training.
Book your free demo today and see CaptAIn in action. For more information, contact Dr. Antonis Frigas, General Manager at SQLearn: antonisfrigas@sqlearn.com.
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