Remarks by Victor Restis

Like many others, I am fascinated by artificial intelligence and the many industries that have adapted emerging technologies to service or aid humanity. There is a lot of talk about the benefit of artificial intelligence simply because it eliminates the “human emotion” component that seems to have steered our species into some interesting (and sometimes troubling) times. In this article, which includes comments by Greek shipping magnate, Victor Restis, the idea of AI within the international shipping and trade industry is being rapidly integrated due to COVID.

Restis says that the maritime industry loves to test AI technologies but not every sector is getting a tech makeover. For example, seafarers need not worry about being replaced by robotics or AI. Seafaring is not a new trade, and I imagine it will be one of the last remaining “romantic” trades that a person can do for a living. Global travel has a reputation for excitement and thrill. I imagine seeing the world by sea is extra special as it provides an entirely different experience than flying. Being able to hear the ocean beneath you, knowing that there are dangers and serenity just below the water, is something amazing. AI simply couldn’t appreciate that.

Robotics are aiding humans in international shipping at a much faster rate, which seems like a logical evolution, especially given what we learned with COVID. Robotics can endure much more dangerous scenarios than humans and can help with onboard fires, oil spills, and other potentially hazardous situations. It seems like robotics can conduct mundane assignments as much as the dangerous ones. The article talked about ship inspections and how robotics and AI can inspect a vessel with a different level of accuracy when detecting cracks or corrosions, especially in areas of the ship that may be difficult (and require a lot of machinery) to reach.

It will be interesting to continue watching this industry and how it evolves in the future. According to Restis, global shipping and trade are a vital backbone of the worldwide economy. If robotic technology can increase maritime safety, proficiency, and delivery time, then it’s definitely in the best interest of companies to explore and continue testing these technological advancements. It seems that leaders like Restis have an eye on all the right parts of ensuring that the global supply chain keeps moving forward and durable even in the face of a worldwide pandemic like COVID-19.