Autonomous Shipping: Some Reflections on Navigational Rights and Rescue at Sea

Until recently, autonomous shipping seemed mostly a theoretical and futuristic vision of technical pioneers and innovative ship builders. However, technical landslides and major economic interests have contributed significantly to the prospect of autonomous shipping. The idea of autonomous and unmanned ships sailing on the seas raises several pertinent legal questions. Legal obstacles are also often said to exist in this area impeding the introduction of new technology. Drawing on an operative focus, the chapter examines key rules and principles concerning navigational rights and rescue at sea in the context of autonomous shipping. In addition to the general law of the sea, the examination encompasses some more specific instruments such as the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, the International Convention for Maritime Search and Rescue and the International Convention on Salvage. Using a legal perspective, the chapter discusses questions like ‘Do autonomous ships enjoy navigational rights in the same way as conventional/non-autonomous ships?’, ‘Are coastal States right to regulate foreign autonomous ships different than other ships?’ and ‘Are autonomous ships subject to the same requirements under international law concerning rescue at sea as other ships?’. In conclusion, the chapter argues that autonomous and unmanned ships are in a predominately similar position as other ships when it comes to navigational rights, and that autonomous and unmanned ships are in some respects outside the scope of international maritime rescue law.