In our previous two articles in this series of twelve, we explored some of the challenges that exist in maritime navigation today. In this article we conclude with the final areas that we explored in our latest thought leadership created in partnership with The UK Hydrographic Office.
Limitations of S-57 in preparing for autonomous vessels
Thanks to advancing maritime communications, semi-autonomous and remotely operated vessels have transitioned from mere ambition to reality. This technological leap has transformed the way data needs to be presented and consumed to enable safe navigation of autonomous vessels.
An important aspect to note regarding S-57 is that the display of the data is intended for human interpretation, to be used alongside complementary navigational information and what can be physically seen out the window. While the charts can be displayed on devices like an ECDIS, they are not optimised for machine-to-machine communication or automated processes. The data structure of S-57 means that it is difficult for algorithms, autonomous systems, or advanced decision-making tools to process.
Regulatory uncertainty
Compliance with environmental regulations is a critical aspect of ship operations today. The rise of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards further adds to the complexity, requiring ship owners and operators to navigate a complex landscape of regulations that vary by region and evolve rapidly. This presents significant challenges, particularly when regulations are not easily accessible or unified across digital platforms.
One example is the IMO’s MARPOL Convention, which aims to reduce pollution at sea, and governs the discharge of waste and garbage from operational or accidental causes. There are certain areas where waste can be discharged and where it cannot, but the biggest issue today is that much of this information is tied up in paper format. It is not available in a single authoritative digital data set, making it difficult for users to find accurate, reliable, and up-to-date information, especially as the vessel moves through waters that are governed by local authorities.
Geopolitical and environmental challenges
Mariners are also faced with a degree of navigational uncertainty linked with various environmental and operational disruptions.
The Red Sea is a critical passage for international trade. Approximately 12% of the global trade passes through this corridor. But it’s becoming more susceptible to attacks from Yemen’s Houthi insurgents. This has heightened concerns about the safety of maritime activities and not only requires constant risk management but also demands shipping companies to be more flexible and agile in decision making and route planning. Ship operators may be forced to sail longer routes to avoid areas of conflict, ultimately lengthening their journeys and heightening fuel consumption.
Ocean Network Express was just one of many companies that in December 2023 was forced to divert its ships from the Suez Canal due to the region coming under fire from Yemen’s Houthi. According to Xeneta, re-routing ships via the Cape of Good Hope added approximately 10 days sailing time, equating to US $1 million in additional fuel consumption. Mariners must re-route their vessels, but relying on S-57’s static data and a lack of real-time updates to navigate a new safe route is a challenge.
To learn more about the challenges discussed in this article, download our thought leadership report ‘New Waters’, created in partnership with the UK Hydrographic Office. Based on the findings of a comprehensive maritime research project, this report explores the five key steps to supporting the successful adoption of the International Hydrographic Organization’s (IHO) S-100 data framework.
