Zelim, a Scottish firm specializing in maritime safety technology, has implemented the inaugural AI-based man overboard (MOB) detection system on a cruise vessel. The system, named ZOE, is now operational aboard the Ambition, a 48,123-gross-ton ship managed by Ambassador Cruise Lines.
ZOE employs a combination of infrared and optical cameras, sensors, and advanced software to deliver continuous 360-degree surveillance for bridge officers. Unlike conventional MOB systems that mainly detect falls, ZOE's AI-driven models are capable of both identifying and tracking individuals who have fallen overboard.
Nick Hughes (COO of Ambassador Cruise Lines) emphasized that the safety of passengers and crew is the company's foremost concern. He noted that the integration of ZOE ensures immediate alerts to the Navigation Bridge in the event of an overboard incident, with the system maintaining tracking of the individual until rescue operations conclude.
Doug Lothian (Chief Technology Officer at Zelim) highlighted that ZOE offers a significant advantage by providing real-time tracking of MOB incidents. He pointed out that traditional systems often lose visual contact with a drifting individual as the vessel progresses, complicating rescue efforts. ZOE addresses this challenge by utilizing precise geo-location data, enabling bridge teams to coordinate recovery operations swiftly and accurately.
Currently, ZOE is undergoing trials on Ambassador Ambition to meet ISO 21195 safety standards for MOB detection. The system has already achieved a 96.8% detection accuracy rate from distances up to 337 meters during certification tests conducted by Lloyd’s Register.
Stewart Gregory (COO of Zelim) commended Ambassador Cruise Lines for leading the adoption of AI-driven MOB detection. He stated that the deployment of ZOE on the Ambition ship sets a precedent in the industry, demonstrating that cruise companies now have access to reliable solutions to reduce the risk of losing passengers or crew at sea, particularly under challenging weather conditions or during nighttime.
The ZOE system will be presented at Seatrade Global Cruise in Miami (Florida USA) scheduled for April 7–10, 2025. The event is anticipated to draw significant interest from cruise shipping companies aiming to enhance their safety protocols with AI-based technology.
With its high detection accuracy, real-time tracking capabilities, and expanded functionalities, ZOE represents a significant advancement in maritime safety, establishing a new benchmark for cruise lines globally.