SEAMLESS research contributes to the debate on the legal framework for automated shipping
- 13/10/2026
How is maritime law evolving to address the challenges of automated and remotely operated vessels?
Iolande Vingiano-Viricel from IDIT has published an article in the October 2026 issue of Le Droit Maritime Français, entitled “Automated Ships: Scope of the MASS Code Adopted by the IMO and Effective since 1 July 2026”.
The article explores the legal and regulatory implications of the MASS Code, addressing key issues such as remote command, seaworthiness, liability and insurance.
Drawing on research conducted within SEAMLESS, the publication highlights the legal challenges associated with automated navigation and the importance of developing appropriate regulatory frameworks to support the safe and effective deployment of autonomous and remotely operated vessels.
This contribution reflects SEAMLESS’s commitment to addressing not only the technological and operational aspects of automated waterborne transport, but also the legal conditions necessary for its future adoption.
