Anglo-Eastern Ship Management has become the first major ship manager to commit to deploying AI-powered navigation technology across its fleet, after striking a strategic partnership with London-based Orca AI.
The Hong Kong-headquartered group, which oversees more than 750 vessels under full technical management, will integrate Orca AI’s operational platform into its service offering. The move signals growing interest in artificial intelligence among ship managers seeking to cut risk, enhance safety, and drive more efficient, data-led operations.
The agreement will see Anglo-Eastern support the installation of Orca AI’s technology across its managed fleet. The system includes SeaPod, a digital watchkeeper designed to strengthen bridge situational awareness in congested waters or low visibility, and FleetView, a shoreside monitoring tool offering real-time insights to office-based teams.
“Safety is paramount, and the Orca AI platform provides an extra layer of support when it matters most,” said Torbjorn Dimblad, Chief Information Officer of Anglo-Eastern. He added that the technology would help reduce workload on the bridge and improve decision-making in critical navigation scenarios, aligning with the company’s wider efforts to invest in crew skills and digital innovation.
Dimblad said Anglo-Eastern’s diverse roster of shipowner clients continually pushed the company to explore new technologies. “Anglo-Eastern is the first ship management company to commit to AI-assisted navigation, and we are pleased to be a leader in that transformation,” he noted.
For Orca AI, the partnership marks its first major agreement with a ship management company, expanding beyond its existing customer base of shipowners and operators. Its platform is used by shipping groups including MSC, Seaspan, Maran Tankers, and NYK to strengthen navigational safety, lower fuel consumption, and reduce emissions.
“Anglo-Eastern is one of the most trusted names in global ship management, known for its operational excellence and people-first approach,” said Yarden Gross, Chief Executive and Co-founder of Orca AI. “Their decision to partner with us is not only a strong endorsement of our technology, but also a signal to the market that AI will be a cornerstone of safe, efficient, and sustainable ship operations.”
Anglo-Eastern employs more than 39,000 seafarers and 2,200 shore-based staff across 30 locations, including training centres and its maritime academy. Orca AI, founded in London, has more than 1,300 vessels booked on its platform and previously supported the world’s first commercial autonomous voyage in 2022.
There’s plenty of other editorial on our sister site, Electronic Specifier! Or you can always join in the conversation by visiting our LinkedIn page.
