Introduction

In 2016, marine insurers Allianz Global Corporate and Specialty group (AGCS) completed a five year study of marine liability insurance claims. Their analysis of almost 15,000 incidents concluded that human error was the primary cause in 75% of cases. The report went further, concluding that up to 96% of marine accidents involve human error to some degree. Statistics highlighting the negative impacts of the human element and its associated errors within the maritime industry have been continually highlighted over many decades. Seafaring places considerable demands on officers and crew and ship operations are vulnerable to human error.

In response, a fertile digital technology market has emerged, offering a myriad of tools that are designed to relieve the cognitive burden on the seafarer. These technologies enable an enhanced working environment where decision making is being supported by increased, more accurate, and more timely data. The concept of e-Navigation facilitates advancements that could really make an impact on ship safety and operational efficiency.