Beyond the Hype: Where AI Will Actually Change Ship Design

Artificial Intelligence has become one of the most talked-about technologies in the maritime sector, with much of the discussion focused on autonomous design, generative concepts and increasingly sophisticated optimisation tools. Yet vessel owners and operators face a different challenge: delivering safe, efficient and commercially successful vessels while navigating decarbonisation targets, evolving regulations, rising costs, increasing technical complexity and growing pressure to improve operational performance.

In this thought leadership paper, by Jake Rigby, Head of Innovation and Research for BMT, he explores where AI can deliver the greatest value across the ship design process. Rather than replacing naval architects and engineers, AI has the potential to act as an engineering co-pilot, helping teams access information more effectively, identify risks earlier, understand complex trade-offs and make better-informed decisions throughout the vessel lifecycle.

Drawing on practical experience in machine learning, vessel design optimisation, engineering decision support and knowledge management, the paper examines how AI can help organisations unlock the value of engineering knowledge, reduce inefficiencies and improve the quality of design outcomes.

The future of ship design is not simply about generating more concepts or performing calculations faster. It is about making better decisions that help deliver safer, more efficient and more commercially successful vessels for shipowners and operators.