Eyesea and EVI Safety Technologies have introduced a new artificial intelligence (AI) system capable of automatically detecting and reporting incidents in which containers fall overboard or drift at sea. This technology has been developed in response to new regulations from the International Maritime Organization (IMO), which will require mandatory reporting of lost containers from 1 January 2026, aiming to improve transparency and maritime safety worldwide.
According to the developers, the system uses standard cameras installed on the ship’s bridge and deck, combined with AI technology to provide continuous monitoring in all operating conditions. After an extensive period of testing and refinement in simulation environments, the system is now ready for live trials onboard commercial vessels. When a container is detected falling overboard or drifting on the sea surface, the AI system automatically captures imagery with GPS coordinates and generates structured incident data. This information is then sent to relevant parties including the shipowner, flag State authorities and coastal regulators, while nearby vessels may also receive alerts to minimize navigational risk.
Eyesea representatives stated that the system is designed to help shipping companies comply with IMO reporting requirements in a timely and standardized manner. Graeme Somerville-Ryan, Founder of Eyesea, emphasized that moving the technology from simulation into real-world deployment marks a significant step forward for the maritime industry, enhancing the ability to manage incidents that may pose environmental risks to the ocean. Vladimir Ponomarfev, CEO of EVI Safety Technologies, added that the application of machine learning and AI is helping to address a long-standing safety and environmental challenge that has not always received adequate attention.
Wider commercial deployment of the system will take place following successful sea trials and validation of its operational effectiveness. According to the World Shipping Council’s Containers Lost at Sea 2024 report, a total of 576 containers were lost overboard in 2024, a sharp increase compared with 221 containers in 2023. This rise is partly linked to vessels rerouting and sailing around the Cape of Good Hope, which has been identified as a hotspot for container loss incidents throughout 2025. These figures highlight the urgent need for modern technology to support accurate monitoring, early detection and timely reporting of incidents at sea.
