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Captainless: Japan Launches World's First Autonomous Passenger Ferry
The world's first passenger ferry using autonomous navigation technology has arrived in western Japan. The vessel, named Olympia Dream Seto, has begun operating between Okayama and Shodoshima Island, Kyodo News Agency reports.
The vessel began operating in semi-autonomous mode after receiving government approval, according to the Nippon Foundation, a shipping industry advocacy group.
The foundation's executive director noted that the introduction of an autonomous ferry could be "one solution" to Japan's labor shortage and help transport passengers to remote islands.
Tests have shown that the vessel is capable of detecting ships ahead and independently changing its route.
This initiative is part of a larger project to commercialize unmanned vessels, involving the Nippon Foundation and over 50 companies. The use of such technologies is expected to improve logistics and reduce the number of maritime accidents. Three more vessels, including container ships, with similar autonomous control capabilities are planned to enter commercial operation by April 2026.
