Articles tagged with "marine-technology"
China launches world’s first floating deep-sea research island
China has launched the world’s first ultra-large, all-weather floating deep-sea research platform, called the “Open-Sea Floating Island,” marking a major advancement in its oceanographic research infrastructure. Developed by Shanghai Jiao Tong University, the semi-submersible twin-hull platform is designed to operate continuously in harsh offshore conditions and support scientific missions at depths up to 32,800 feet. The facility integrates a central floating platform, ship-based laboratories, and shore support, enabling large-scale testing of deep-sea equipment, exploration of ocean resources, and development of marine technologies. Expected to be completed by 2030, it will serve as an open-sea testing site for deep-sea mining systems, offshore oil and gas infrastructure, and other marine equipment, facilitating practical research in real ocean environments rather than limited nearshore or laboratory settings. The floating island’s mobility allows it to quickly reach designated research areas and then ballast into a stable mode for extended scientific operations, with strong resistance to severe weather
energymarine-technologyoffshore-infrastructuredeep-sea-explorationocean-researchfloating-platformscientific-innovationChina's first submersible could take tourists 3,280-feet below ocean
China is developing its first tourist submersible capable of diving 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) into the ocean’s “Midnight Zone,” aiming to compete with established Western luxury deep-sea tourism companies. The China Ship Scientific Research Centre in Wuxi plans to complete a prototype by the end of 2026 and launch commercial operations by 2030. The submersible will carry up to four passengers and offer panoramic views through a specially designed transparent hull that can withstand the immense pressure and cold temperatures of deep-sea environments. This project leverages China’s advanced scientific submersible technology, such as that used in the Jiaolong and Deep Sea Warrior vessels, to enter the niche but growing market of extreme underwater tourism. The deep-sea tourism market is currently dominated by Western brands like Triton and U-Boat Worx, with ticket prices for such expeditions ranging from thousands to tens of thousands of dollars. Safety is a paramount concern following recent tragedies, including the
robotdeep-sea-submersibleocean-explorationunderwater-roboticsmarine-technologypressure-resistant-materialsluxury-tourismArc expands into electric commercial and defense boats with $50M raise
Arc Boat Company, a Los Angeles-based startup, has raised $50 million in a Series C funding round led by investors including Eclipse, a16z, and Menlo Ventures to expand its electric propulsion technology into commercial and defense maritime markets. Founded by Mitch Lee, the company aims to "electrify everything on the water" by leveraging its existing consumer sport boat business, which generates significant revenue and serves as a proving ground for the durability and capability of its technology. This strategy mirrors Tesla’s approach of starting with high-end consumer products before moving into commercial sectors, a method endorsed by Greg Reichow, a former Tesla VP and Eclipse partner. Arc plans to supply electric propulsion systems rather than build entire boats for commercial and defense customers. For commercial vessels, Arc collaborates with shipyards, as demonstrated by its hybrid tugboat project with Curtin Maritime and Snow & Co. In the defense sector, Arc intends to be a direct supplier of electric powertrains to prime contractors, addressing a critical need
energyelectric-propulsioncommercial-boatsdefense-technologyelectric-powertrainssustainable-transportationmarine-technologyRobotic 3D printing builds 6-meter open-water catamaran in one piece
V2 Group (Spain) and Caracol AM (Italy) have collaboratively developed the first functional 6-meter-long monolithic catamaran for open-water use, fabricated entirely through robotic large-format 3D printing. Unlike traditional boatbuilding, which relies on molds and extensive manual labor, this project produced the hull as a single-piece structure, minimizing joints and assembly steps to enhance structural integrity and streamline production. The initiative focused not only on creating a prototype but also on analyzing the full naval-grade manufacturing workflow—including design, material selection, printing optimization, post-processing, and testing—with scalability, sustainability, and economic efficiency as core objectives. The catamaran was engineered to meet real marine conditions, emphasizing buoyancy, rigidity, and durability, marking a significant step toward industrial-scale additive manufacturing in the nautical sector. The use of robotic extrusion systems allows for highly customizable designs, efficient material use, and reduced environmental impact compared to conventional composite methods. This digital-first approach enables rapid design iterations without new tooling,
robotics3D-printingadditive-manufacturingmarine-technologymaterials-engineeringsustainable-manufacturingindustrial-automationEngineers build quietest ship propellers to save marine life
German researchers at HAW Kiel have launched the MinKav project, funded by a €390,000 grant from Schleswig-Holstein, to develop quieter ship propellers aimed at reducing underwater noise pollution that disrupts marine life. The project, which began in January 2026 and will run until the end of 2028, focuses on mitigating noise caused by cavitation—a process where vapor bubbles form and violently collapse on propeller blades, generating loud sounds that interfere with marine mammals’ communication, feeding, and mating behaviors. Using advanced tools such as cavitation tunnels, high-speed cameras, and underwater microphones, the team seeks to understand and slow down bubble collapse to reduce noise without compromising ship efficiency or speed. Led by Prof. Jörn Kröger and doctoral researcher Leonie Föhring, the project addresses a critical gap in maritime engineering, where noise reduction has not been a priority despite environmental concerns. Unlike current solutions that often require ships to slow down—resulting in longer travel times and higher costs
energymarine-technologyshipbuildingnoise-reductionenvironmental-protectioncavitationfluid-dynamicsApeiron Labs gets $29M to flood the oceans with autonomous underwater robots
Apeiron Labs, founded in 2022 by Ravi Pappu, is addressing the longstanding challenge of gathering detailed subsurface ocean data, which has traditionally been expensive and slow, relying on costly ships and limited autonomous rovers. The company develops low-cost, autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) that can travel vertically up to 400 meters, collecting data on temperature, salinity, and acoustics once or twice daily. These compact AUVs, measuring three feet long and weighing just over 20 pounds, can be deployed from boats or airplanes and integrate with a cloud-based operating system to log data and refine ocean models in real time. Recently, Apeiron Labs secured $9.5 million in Series A funding led by Dyne Ventures and other investors, enabling the company to scale production and deployment of its AUVs. The devices are spaced 10 to 20 kilometers apart to form arrays that provide higher-resolution ocean data than traditional ship-based methods. Apeiron envisions applications
robotautonomous-underwater-vehiclesocean-monitoringIoTcloud-based-operating-systemenvironmental-data-collectionmarine-technologyNew wind turbine converts ambient airflow into sailboat electricity
Belgian startup Philéole has introduced Grain Blanc, a compact vertical-axis wind turbine designed specifically for sailboats to generate electricity from ambient airflow while underway. Mounted on the mast, Grain Blanc captures wind from any direction, unlike traditional horizontal turbines that require orientation toward the wind. This makes it highly effective in the constantly shifting wind conditions typical of marine environments. The turbine is lightweight, about one meter tall and less than half a meter in diameter, allowing easy integration without interfering with sails or deck operations. Its three-phase alternator with an integrated rectifier ensures consistent power output even in turbulent or irregular winds, supplying energy to essential onboard systems such as navigation, communications, and control consoles. The turbine also operates while moored, maintaining battery charge and supporting equipment like dehumidifiers. Philéole has emphasized quiet operation and low vibration in the Grain Blanc design to enhance sailor comfort and minimize disturbance to marine wildlife. Beyond sailing, the company offers the turbine in three ranges—Sailing, Building, and
energywind-turbinerenewable-energymarine-technologysustainable-powervertical-axis-turbineclean-energyBrunswick unveils largest-ever CES display of AI-powered marine tech
At CES 2026, Brunswick Corporation, the world’s largest marine technology company, unveiled its largest-ever display focused on AI-powered marine innovations, highlighting how artificial intelligence, autonomy, and electrification are transforming boating. The exhibit showcased the global launch of Sea Ray’s most technologically advanced SLX model, featuring an automotive-inspired helm with integrated controls and dual Simrad NSX ULTRAWIDE displays connected to Mercury Marine propulsion. Central to the display was the Simrad AutoCaptain system, an assisted autonomous navigation technology designed to help operators with complex tasks such as docking and route planning, enhancing safety and accessibility for a broader range of users. Brunswick’s CES presence also emphasized its ACES strategy—Autonomous and Assisted, Connected, Electrified, and Shared—through various products including the NAVAN C30, which integrates solar panels and autonomous support to improve accessibility, and the Lund Crossover XS, a family-oriented fish-and-ski boat equipped with advanced Lowrance and Mercury Marine technologies. Additionally,
robotAIautonomous-navigationelectric-propulsionmarine-technologyIoTenergyPhotos: This 30-foot hybrid boat to offer world’s longest-range with over 700-mile run
Navier unveiled the Quanta-R at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, a 30-foot hybrid-electric hydrofoiling vessel that sets a new benchmark in recreational boating with a record-breaking range of over 700 nautical miles at cruising speed—nearly double the current industry standard. Built on Navier’s Pioneer hull, the Quanta-R employs actively stabilized hydrofoils that lift the hull out of the water to reduce drag, significantly enhancing fuel efficiency, lowering wake, and minimizing noise. This innovation marks a shift toward more sustainable marine travel by reducing reliance on fuel-intensive propulsion. The Quanta-R features aviation-inspired, software-defined mobility, enabling high performance and comfort even in challenging sea conditions (Sea State 3). It is the first recreational model based on Navier’s scalable Generalized Marine Vessel Platform, designed for adaptability across commercial, military, and passenger applications. The platform’s redundant system architecture eliminates single points of failure, embodying a dual-use technology approach that bridges luxury leisure boating with defense
energyhybrid-electricmarine-technologysustainable-transportationhydrofoilsmobility-technologyadvanced-manufacturingNew direct-drive motor boosts efficiency in next-gen electric ferries
New Zealand-based company Vessev has introduced the VS-Drive, an innovative podded electric propulsion system designed to enhance efficiency and reliability in marine transport, particularly for electric ferries. The VS-Drive features a direct-drive brushless motor that eliminates traditional gearboxes and long driveshafts, reducing energy loss and noise while improving durability. Its submersible, modular design includes an advanced closed-loop cooling system that keeps operating temperatures below 50°C, enabling consistent performance in various climates. The system also incorporates real-time health monitoring sensors, simplifying maintenance and ensuring long-term reliability. Currently powering Vessev’s VS-9, a nine-meter electric hydrofoiling catamaran operating with New Zealand’s Fullers360 ferry service since early 2025, the VS-Drive delivers 65 kW (90 horsepower) and speeds up to 25 knots. This propulsion system offers smooth, silent operation with excellent low-speed control, making it suitable for commercial and recreational vessels. The VS-Drive
energyelectric-propulsionzero-emissionmarine-technologydirect-drive-motorhydrofoiling-ferrysustainable-transportGiant 114-foot wind sails to propel 325,000-deadweight-ton cargo ship
Anemoi Marine Technologies, a UK-based wind propulsion developer, has installed four large rotor sails on the 325,000 deadweight-ton very large ore carrier (VLOC) Grand Pioneer, operated by Taiwan’s U-Ming Marine Transport Corporation. The 114-foot-tall, 16-foot-diameter sails were installed at the COSCO Zhoushan shipyard in China and are designed to harness wind power via the Magnus effect, generating thrust that reduces the ship’s fuel consumption and emissions. This installation marks a significant step in U-Ming’s commitment to decarbonizing shipping and improving sustainability on long-haul routes, specifically between Brazil and China. The rotor sails, delivered fully assembled and installed using a plug-and-play method, are expected to reduce annual fuel use and emissions by 10 to 12 percent during deep-sea operations. The sails also feature a folding design for operational flexibility in ports and under bridges. Anemoi’s team supervised the installation and accompanied the vessel on
energywind-propulsionmarine-technologydecarbonizationfuel-efficiencysustainable-shippingrenewable-energyWorld's first nature-inclusive 30 MW floating wind farm launched
Ocean Winds (OW) has successfully completed the installation of the world’s first nature-inclusive 30 MW floating offshore wind farm, Éoliennes Flottantes du Golfe du Lion (EFGL), off the coast of Occitanie, France. The project features three 10 MW turbines mounted on floating foundations, assembled at Port-La Nouvelle and towed 16 km offshore. This milestone demonstrates the viability of floating wind technology in deeper waters, unlocking high-wind areas previously inaccessible to fixed-bottom turbines. The EFGL project is expected to supply clean energy to around 50,000 inhabitants annually and marks a significant step in OW’s 15-year leadership in floating wind technology. EFGL is notable not only for its technological achievement but also as the world’s first nature-inclusive floating wind farm, incorporating artificial marine habitats called Biohuts to enhance local biodiversity. This innovation, alongside strong regional collaboration and advanced engineering, sets a new benchmark for environmentally responsible offshore wind development. The success of EFGL p
energyoffshore-windfloating-wind-farmrenewable-energyclean-energywind-turbinesmarine-technologyChina debuts dive robot built to reach 20,000 feet beneath the ocean
China has successfully conducted the maiden trial of its self-developed remotely operated vehicle (ROV) Haiqin, designed for deep-sea exploration at depths up to 6,000 meters (19,685 feet). During the initial sea trial in the South China Sea on August 23, 2025, Haiqin completed multiple dives, reaching a maximum depth of 4,140 meters (13,582 feet). The trial validated the ROV’s stability, navigation, automatic heading control, and precise hovering capabilities, essential for operating in complex deep-sea environments. Prior to the sea trial, Haiqin had passed a 6,000-meter pressure test on land, and according to international standards, passing a 4,000-meter sea trial generally confirms its full-depth operational capability. Weighing 3.6 tons and deployed from the Zhong Shan Da Xue research vessel, Haiqin is equipped with high-definition cameras, robotic arms, sonar, and sensors to support a broad range of scientific
robotdeep-sea-explorationremotely-operated-vehiclemarine-technologyunderwater-roboticsscientific-researchoceanographyHow Project CETI uses drones to humanely tag sperm whales - The Robot Report
Project CETI (Cetacean Translation Initiative) has been developing innovative methods since 2020 to humanely tag sperm whales using robotics and AI, with the ultimate goal of decoding their vocalizations. Traditional tagging methods involve approaching whales by boat and using long poles, which is logistically difficult and invasive. Instead, Project CETI employs modified first-person view (FPV) racing drones that are waterproofed and equipped with custom interfaces to deploy biologically-inspired suction-cup tags on whales. These tags collect critical data such as bioacoustics, heart rate, dive depth, and body orientation. The drones’ maneuverability, speed, and relatively low cost make them well-suited for tagging whales during their brief surface intervals, which last only about eight to ten minutes. The project faces challenges in timing the drone deployment precisely due to the whales’ unpredictable surfacing and the dynamic ocean environment. Skilled operators remotely control the drones, achieving an average deployment time of about 1 minute and 15 seconds
roboticsdronesartificial-intelligencebioacousticswildlife-monitoringmarine-technologyrobotic-taggingKraken Robotics nets $115M for marine systems in public offering - The Robot Report
Kraken Robotics Inc., a Canadian marine technology company specializing in advanced subsea imaging and uncrewed maritime systems, has successfully closed an underwritten public offering, raising over $115 million by issuing more than 43.2 million common shares at $2.66 each. The capital infusion strengthens Kraken’s balance sheet, enabling the company to pursue strategic acquisitions, expand its global presence, and enhance value for customers and shareholders. Kraken’s product portfolio includes synthetic aperture sonar, sub-bottom imaging, lidar systems, and pressure-tolerant batteries designed for uncrewed underwater vehicles and subsea energy storage. In April, Kraken acquired 3D at Depth Inc., a subsea services firm specializing in high-resolution lidar imaging, which now operates as a wholly owned subsidiary under the Kraken brand. This acquisition complements Kraken’s existing technologies and supports its goal to transform subsea intelligence with integrated 3D imaging sensors and power systems. The company reported a Q1 2025 gross profit of $10.1
robotunderwater-roboticsmarine-technologysubsea-imagingsynthetic-aperture-sonarenergy-storagelidar-systemsFrench tech turns ocean breakwaters into wave energy-generating wall
A pioneering French collaboration has initiated the construction of Dikwe, the first full-scale energy-positive breakwater system in Boulogne-sur-Mer, northern France. Developed jointly by French marine research institute Ifremer and technology company GEPS Techno, with construction by the UK-based Legendre Group, Dikwe integrates wave energy generation into traditional harbor breakwaters. Unlike conventional breakwaters that solely protect coastlines and harbor vessels from waves and erosion, Dikwe incorporates oscillating flaps connected to energy capture devices that convert wave motion into electricity, offering a low-carbon, renewable energy source that addresses intermittency issues common in wind and solar power. The concept originated at Ifremer and has been refined over more than a decade, progressing from small-scale prototypes tested in controlled wave facilities to a 1/4th scale model tested in 2022. Following successful trials, Legendre Group and GEPS Techno formed a joint venture, Wave-Op, to promote the deployment of Dikwe technology and
energyrenewable-energywave-energybreakwatermarine-technologyclean-energytidal-energyFrench Navy’s deep-sea ops accidentally reveal shipwreck from 1500s
A French Navy underwater drone operating near Saint-Tropez has discovered the deepest shipwreck ever found in French territorial waters, resting at a depth of 2,567 meters (8,200 feet). The wreck, provisionally named Camarat 4, is a remarkably well-preserved 16th-century Italian merchant vessel from the Renaissance period. Measuring about 30 meters long and 7 meters wide, the ship was initially detected by sonar and later explored with remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), revealing an intact cargo including nearly 200 Ligurian ceramic jugs, iron bars, artillery pieces, an anchor, and yellow-glazed plates. Despite some contamination from modern debris like plastic bottles and fishing nets, the archaeological significance remains exceptional. The ship likely originated from Liguria, northern Italy, as indicated by the ceramic artifacts bearing mid-16th-century Ligurian motifs and the vessel’s design consistent with Ligurian or Genoese merchant ships. Such vessels were integral to Italy’s Renaissance-era
robotunderwater-droneremotely-operated-vehiclemaritime-archaeologyshipwreck-discoverymarine-technologydeep-sea-explorationNew Electric Boat Line Coming - CleanTechnica
ACEL Power, a Canadian leader in intelligent electric propulsion systems, has partnered with Madrid-based boat builder Vector Náutico to launch a new electric boat line called MOLA-e. Designed for coastal and inland cruising, the boats measure 5.99 meters in length and come in two configurations: a 50HP model with a 32 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery and a 75HP model with a 43 kWh LFP battery. These batteries offer high energy density, extended lifecycle, and enhanced thermal stability, enabling zero-emission propulsion without sacrificing performance. The MOLA-e line aims to combine luxury yacht design with the accessibility of a day cruiser, featuring optimized hull geometry for improved range and handling, as well as wide swim platforms for easy water access. The first units are expected to debut in mid-2025, with sea trials and showcase events planned across Spain. Pricing and customization details will be released closer to the launch. Both companies emphasize sustainability and reliability, positioning
energyelectric-boatselectric-propulsionLFP-batterysustainable-transportationzero-emissionmarine-technologyChina's new deep-ocean drilling vessel aims to go beyond Earth's crust
China has launched the Meng Xiang, its first domestically designed and built deep-ocean drilling vessel, capable of drilling up to 11 kilometers (6.8 miles) beneath the ocean floor. Officially commissioned in November 2024 in Guangzhou, the vessel is set to begin drilling operations in the South China Sea later in 2025, continuing through 2035. The Meng Xiang aims to advance understanding of the Earth’s deep interior, particularly the boundary between the crust and mantle known as the Mohorovičić discontinuity (Moho), which has previously been studied mainly through indirect methods like seismology and volcanic mineral analysis. The Meng Xiang is China’s largest scientific research vessel, measuring nearly 180 meters in length and displacing 42,600 tonnes. It features a first-of-its-kind hydraulic lifting rig capable of both oil and gas exploration and scientific core sampling, supporting four drilling modes and three coring methods to accommodate diverse geological conditions. The ship can operate unassisted for 120 days, has a range of 15,000 nautical miles, and houses nine advanced laboratories covering fields such as geology, geochemistry, microbiology, and ocean science. Additionally, it includes the world’s first automated shipborne core sample storage system and is engineered to withstand super typhoons, ensuring safe operation in extreme sea conditions. This vessel represents a significant step forward in marine science and technology, offering unprecedented opportunities to study the Earth’s deep ocean and interior.
energydeep-ocean-drillingscientific-research-vesseloil-and-gas-explorationnatural-gas-hydratehydraulic-lifting-rigmarine-technologyScientists build €8 underwater data hubs from old smartphones
robotIoTenergymaterialsdata-centerssustainabilitymarine-technologyRolls-Royce unveils monster 12-cylinder diesel engine for faster, greener superyachts
energysustainable-propulsionmarine-technologyRolls-Roycediesel-engineemissions-reductionrenewable-dieselArc’s new 24-foot electric boat is its cheapest yet
electric-boatsArcclean-energymarine-technologyelectric-vehiclessustainable-transportationbattery-technology