Maritime technology leader Orca AI has unveiled Co-Captain, a new feature in its operational platform that allows vessels to share navigation data in real time. The innovation helps ships anticipate hazards, respond to emerging risks, and navigate with greater confidence.
A Growing Network of Connected Ships
Co-Captain links a rapidly expanding fleet of 1,000 Orca AI-equipped vessels, with hundreds more expected to join. Each ship acts as both a sensor and a source of awareness, sharing verified alerts that draw on real-time conditions, weather data, vessel traffic, and local regulations.
By combining these inputs with Orca AI’s advanced computer-vision technology, Co-Captain creates a single, dynamic layer of collective intelligence. Every vessel in the network contributes to a constantly evolving picture of global maritime routes.
“Every addition to the fleet strengthens shared awareness,” said Yarden Gross, CEO and Co-Founder of Orca AI. “Given that 90% of world trade moves by sea, collaborative navigation is no longer optional—it’s a safety, environmental, and security imperative.”
How Co-Captain Works
Each Orca AI vessel continuously scans for high-risk targets, including non-AIS ships like fishing boats, small craft, and floating hazards such as fishing nets. Data is uploaded to the cloud and processed to generate relevant, actionable alerts.
These alerts cover a range of operational scenarios:
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Congested waters: Early warnings allow ships to adjust speed, course, or assign additional watch officers.
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Severe weather: Real-time updates on visibility and conditions enable crews to prepare in advance.
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GNSS interference: Alerts about satellite disruptions help ships re-route or switch to alternative navigation methods.
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Piracy zones: Ships receive pre-emptive warnings to boost vigilance and activate security protocols.
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Environmental compliance: Notifications about whale sightings, emission zones, and local speed limits ensure crews can act ahead of time.
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Navigational hazards: Information on buoy shifts, obstacles, ice, or pollution is shared to prevent incidents.
All data is fully anonymized, with only location and conditions reported, ensuring complete privacy for participating vessels.
Driving Efficiency and Safety
Beyond safety, Co-Captain offers measurable financial benefits. By helping crews anticipate risks and avoid delays, ships can optimize fuel use, reduce downtime, and prevent costly incidents. As more vessels join the network, these efficiencies grow, turning collective safety intelligence into real business value.
With over 100 million nautical miles of data collected, Orca AI’s network provides an unmatched foundation for predictive navigation. Gross describes the platform as a “living, evolving ecosystem,” where every vessel plays a key role in keeping crews connected and ahead of risk.
