US$72M Investment Advances AI-Driven Autonomous Ship Navigation
Orca AI, a developer of AI-based autonomous navigation technology, has secured approximately US$73 million in Series B funding to enhance its platform's capabilities and expand into the defence sector. Brighton Park Capital led the round, joined by existing investors Ankona Capital and Hyperlink Ventures. This latest funding brings Orca AI’s total capital raised to US$111 million.
The company plans to use the investment to broaden its autonomous navigation platform, integrate new features, and enter new markets such as defence and security. Previous investors including OCV Partners and Mizmaa Ventures also contributed to earlier funding rounds.
Enhancing Situational Awareness with AI
Orca AI equips ship bridge teams with improved situational awareness by merging camera visuals and extensive datasets with AI algorithms. This technology spots risks and targets that might elude human detection, providing crews with timely alerts to reduce collision chances and make better operational decisions.
In 2024, Orca AI's alerts helped decrease close encounter incidents by 54%, leading to safer voyages and reduced sudden accelerations. This improvement translated into an average annual fuel saving of US$100,000 per vessel and a total estimated reduction of 195,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions.
Leveraging Large-Scale Maritime Data
Orca AI has compiled what it believes to be the world’s largest marine visual dataset, covering over 80 million nautical miles. This data fuels AI models that enhance risk detection and situational awareness for bridge officers. The company emphasizes that advances in AI and cloud connectivity are key enablers for smarter, safer, and more automated vessels.
Industry Adoption and Connectivity
Major shipowners and operators like Mediterranean Shipping, NYK, Scorpio, and Seaspan deploy Orca AI technology on hundreds of vessels. They combine it with high-speed connectivity via Low Earth Orbit satellites, enabling real-time transmission of navigational data for route mapping and traffic monitoring.
Upcoming Webinar: Safety, Crew Well-Being, and Technology
On 13 May 2025, Riviera and Orca AI will co-host a webinar titled “The Illusion of Safety: What We're Getting Wrong About Crews, Tech, and Fatigue”. This session will address critical issues around bridge safety, crew fatigue, and operational practices, providing fleet managers with insights to build safer and more resilient operations beyond mere compliance.
Explore AI courses that can deepen your understanding of how AI is applied in sectors like maritime navigation and beyond.
Related Industry Events
- Maritime Environmental Protection Webinar Week
Starting 12 May 2025, a series of online webinars will focus on maritime environmental protection, balancing expert insights with interactive discussion. - The Illusion of Safety: Crews, Tech, and Fatigue Webinar
13 May 2025 (Online)
Explores crew support, fatigue management, and operational models in light of recent maritime incidents. - Responsible Ship Recycling Forum 2025
14 May 2025, London
Discussing sustainable practices in ship recycling with key industry stakeholders. - Integrated System Simulation for Vessel Efficiency
15 May 2025 (Online)
Using vessel case studies to show how system simulation improves energy efficiency and sustainability.
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