Canada’s Ocean Supercluster Announces $3.8M AI-Powered Vessel Automation Toolkit Project 

For Immediate Release 
January 16, 2025  

(Halifax, NS) – Today Canada’s Ocean Supercluster (OSC) announced three new ocean innovation projects valued at more than $9 million, including the $3.8 million AI-Powered Vessel Automation Toolkit Project. This new, collaborative OSC project will improve fishing operations, increase competitiveness in ocean AI, and enhance existing infrastructure. 

The project aims to deliver an AI-powered vessel automation toolkit, which will transform existing vessels into smart vessels that have autopilot capabilities and improved operational efficiency. Smart vessel applications will include enhanced catch monitoring capabilities through autonomous navigation and fishing route planning, and autonomous location detection of ghost gear in deep water. 

The project is led by Halifax, NS-based Marine Thinking, in partnership with ACEL Power in Vancouver, BC. With a total project value of $3, 873, 528, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is investing $1, 548, 990 with the balance of funding coming from project partners. 

By developing this toolkit and cross-platform control software, Marine Thinking and its partners will improve data visualization and remote control on-board vessels. The solution will enhance maritime safety and support the health and prosperity of Canada’s oceans and coastal communities, while also contributing to the long-term viability of Canada’s fisheries. 

This project will support the growth of Canada’s ocean economy, including in the areas of sustainable fishery, offshore energy, and marine transportation. By lowering the barrier for end-users to access smart autonomous vessels and boosting the adoption of AI technologies in vessel operation, the project will position Canada as a leader in maritime automation technology. 

The global ocean economy is expected to outpace the broader economy by 20 percent by 2030, and Canada’s ocean community has developed a bold, collective goal to grow the country’s ocean economy by 5X to $220B by 2035. Continued investment in the accelerated development and commercialization of globally relevant, made in Canada ocean solutions, including the projects announced today, will help us realize this transformative growth potential mapped out through Ambition 2035

-30- 

Media Contacts 
Nancy Andrews 
Canada’s Ocean Supercluster 
nancy.andrews@oceansupercluster.ca 

About Canada’s Ocean Supercluster 

 
Canada’s Ocean Supercluster accelerates the development and commercialization of made-in-Canada ocean solutions in energy transition, food security, future of transport, and climate change while also growing more companies, creating more jobs, and attracting ocean talent. As Canada’s national ocean cluster, the OSC is a convenor of members, partners, and networks and a catalyst for transformative growth that helps build the robust ecosystem needed to help realize Ambition 2035 – a 5X growth potential in ocean in Canada by 2035. To date, the OSC has approved more than 100 projects which will deliver more than 220 new made-in-Canada ocean products, processes, and services to sell to the world. For more information visit oceansupercluster.ca 

Quotes 

“Projects like these are helping to advance Canada’s ocean economy and materialize the growth potential of the sector. By integrating cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence, these projects are improving operational efficiencies, driving innovation and unlocking the full potential of Canada’s vast ocean resources. They are pivotal in supporting the growth and sustainability of the marine, shipping and fisheries industries, among others, ensuring that the ocean economy remains a global leader in both economic growth and environmental responsibility.” – The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry 
 

“With advancing solutions for Artificial Intelligence and automation in vessel operations, Canada has an opportunity to lead the way in the future of marine transport. Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is excited to announce the $3.8 million AI Powered Vessel Automation Toolkit project which will provide a practical, smart solution for existing vessels and increase critical monitoring capabilities.” – Kendra MacDonald, CEO, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster