AUTOSHIPMAN – the first standard form management agreement for autonomous ships
BIMCO’s Documentary Committee has adopted the AUTOSHIPMAN form in response to the growing number of remotely controlled and eventually fully autonomous ships. The form intends to address the specific risks and responsibilities associated with remotely controlled and autonomous ships.
Reading time 2 minutes
Technological innovation in the maritime industry is leading to rapid advancements that will enable the commercial use of autonomous ships, whether remotely controlled or fully autonomous. The potential benefits are substantial, both for the environment, improved safety and cost savings. However, this shift will significantly alter the risk landscape at sea, which must be reflected in the contractual framework.
AUTOSHIPMAN
The AUTOSHIPMAN form provides a standard contractual foundation for third-party ship managers to deliver services for the operation of remotely controlled or fully autonomous ships. The form has been developed on the basis of BIMCO’s familiar SHIPMAN form to govern ship management services and provide the framework for the obligations, responsibilities and liabilities.
Since its original introduction in 1988, the SHIPMAN form (revised in 1998, 2009 and 2024) has established itself as the global standard ship management agreement. It may include crew, technical and commercial management, as well as insurance agreements in respect of ships.
During the development of the AUTOSHIPMAN, BIMCO received support from legal and insurance experts. BIMCO also gained valuable insights throughout the process from companies already engaged in operating remotely controlled ships worldwide.
One of the key features of the AUTOSHIPMAN is the flexibility that allows ships to switch operational modes even during a voyage. This is important because it may be a legal requirement for remotely controlled ships to be partially or fully manned when passing through the territorial waters of a jurisdiction or for calling at a port.
Autonomous ships in today's and future markets
Several autonomous ship projects are in various stages of development, with some already at the testing stage. However, widespread adoption depends on overcoming technological and regulatory hurdles, and also gaining trust in the eye of public perception.
In the meantime, as advancements in AI and automation continue, an increasing number of ships are adopting technologies like auto-docking and auto-crossing, which bring many of the benefits of autonomous technology as a tool which seafarers can use to optimise navigation, fuel consumption and safety. This will likely bring valuable lessons which can be used when advancing the true autonomous ship technology.