Ardmore Shipping Expands AI and VR Fleet Strategy
Ardmore Shipping has expanded its use of artificial intelligence and virtual reality technologies across its fleet, with the company’s latest sustainability report outlining investment in voyage optimisation, onboard digital systems and crew training. The report said the technologies are integrated into routine vessel operations to support fuel efficiency, emissions reductions and operational performance.
A central part of the company’s digital programme is its ship-to-shore artificial intelligence platform, built around its programme called DeepSea. The system supports voyage planning by helping vessels maintain optimal sailing speeds and providing dynamic weather routing throughout each trip. According to the report, the platform combines navigational expertise with machine learning and data analytics to improve voyage execution and reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions throughout the fleet.
The sustainability report also highlighted a decline in the company’s fleet emissions during the latest reporting period. Ardmore Shipping said carbon dioxide emissions fell from 422,083 metric tonnes in 2024 to 361,656 metric tonnes in 2025, representing a reduction of more than 60,000 metric tonnes over the year.
Weather routing formed part of that performance. The report stated that routing services provided by WetterWelt contributed to 1,289 metric tonnes of avoided carbon dioxide emissions during 2025 by supporting more efficient voyage planning. Post-voyage analysis is used to measure time savings and fuel consumption following each passage.
The company has also begun introducing DeepSea’s Neuro onboard hardware across its fleet. The report said the equipment reduces data latency and minimises data loss, allowing vessels to gather more detailed operational data during voyages. The additional information supports voyage optimisation while increasing fuel efficiency and carbon performance.
Alongside artificial intelligence, Ardmore Shipping continues to deploy a range of technologies intended to improve vessel efficiency. These include hull performance monitoring, upgraded hull coatings, propeller improvements, and automated hull-cleaning systems. The report presented these measures as part of the company’s wider efforts to improve vessel performance and reduce fuel use across the fleet.
Digital investment also extends to crew preparation before personnel join a vessel. Ardmore Shipping has introduced Marine Virtual Reality training based on digital twin technology, allowing seafarers to familiarise themselves with vessel layouts before boarding.
The report said engineers and deck officers can explore machinery spaces and operational areas through an interactive virtual environment before beginning work on board. The system enables crew members to build familiarity with equipment and operating procedures without exposing vessels or personnel to operational risk during training.
The virtual reality programme operates alongside the AFLIX Safety Management System, which provides mobile training, onboard learning resources and safety videos for seafarers. According to the report, these digital learning tools support training across the fleet and provide crews with access to safety information during their service.
Ardmore Shipping also uses a digital safety feedback application that enables crew members to complete structured peer assessments. Information gathered through the system helps identify where supplementary support or further training may be required, the report said.
The sustainability report presented artificial intelligence, onboard digital hardware, virtual reality training and connected learning platforms as integrated components of the company’s day-to-day operations. The report said these systems support voyage planning, vessel performance and crew development through a connected digital approach.
The company also continued investing in fleet-wide connectivity to support communication and engagement with seafarers across its activities. According to the sustainability report, the continued expansion of onboard connectivity forms part of Ardmore Shipping’s wider digital strategy, which covers vessel operations, crew training, and operational performance.
