- AI system uses onboard cameras to detect lost or drifting containers
- Trials to begin on operational vessels following simulation testing
- Supports upcoming IMO mandatory container reporting requirements
- Aims to improve safety and environmental protection through real-time alerts
An artificial intelligence-based solution for detecting and reporting containers lost overboard is moving into the operational trial phase, according to SAFETY4SEA.
AI Technology Moves From Simulation to Shipboard Trials
Eyesea, in collaboration with EVI Safety Technologies, has announced the rollout of a new system that applies computer vision and machine learning to standard onboard deck and bridge cameras. The technology is designed to automatically identify and count containers either falling from a vessel or observed drifting at sea.
Following development and testing in simulation environments, the system is now ready for trials aboard operational vessels. When a container loss or drifting container is detected, the system enables immediate transmission of incident data to registered vessel owners, Flag States, and where appropriate, coastal authorities.
“One of the first use cases and features we built into Eyesea was the ability to report containers—it’s a very specific and unique maritime problem. With this new technology now ready to move on from simulation testing, we’re taking a major step, real-world detection and environmental protection,” said Graeme Somerville-Ryan, Founder, Eyesea.
Supporting Upcoming IMO Mandatory Reporting Rules
The companies note that the system directly aligns with forthcoming International Maritime Organization requirements for reporting containers lost at sea. These rules mandate timely notification of the position, number of containers lost, and any available information on their contents, with particular emphasis on dangerous goods.
The Eyesea–EVI system is designed to support compliance by generating structured incident data and precise geo-tagged imagery at the moment a container loss or drifting container is detected.
“We fully support Eyesea’s mission. It’s amazing to be able to apply the advances of machine learning and AI to help the maritime sector tackle an environmental and safety challenge that has been underserved for decades. This is exactly the kind of impactful application our technology should enable,” added Vladimir Ponomarfev, CEO, EVI Safety Technologies.
According to the developers, real-time detection and automated reporting also address a long-standing operational challenge, as container-loss incidents are frequently unobserved or reported too late to provide timely warnings to other vessels.
Onboard trials represent the next stage of development, with broader deployment anticipated following validation of performance in real-world operating conditions.
Container Losses at Sea: Progress and Ongoing Challenges
Containers lost at sea continue to present risks to navigation safety, the marine environment, and global supply chains. The World Shipping Council’s Containers Lost at Sea Report (June 2025) recorded 576 containers lost during 2024. While this figure is higher than in 2023, it remains consistent with a longer-term downward trend attributed to sustained industry efforts.
Recent years have seen progress in identifying the main causes of container losses, improving cargo securing practices, and developing tools and training to support ocean carriers and seafarers. Industry collaboration has also contributed to regulatory developments.
Mandatory reporting requirements under SOLAS and MARPOL will enter into force on 1 January 2026, requiring ships to report containers lost at sea or observed adrift. Together with recommendations to the International Maritime Organization and the International Organization for Standardization, these measures aim to enhance transparency, accountability, and container safety across global shipping.
As containerized trade continues to expand, the challenge remains to ensure that regulation, technology, and operational best practices continue to evolve in parallel to further reduce container losses at sea.
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Source: SAFETY4SEA
