Autonomous Boats Market by Propulsion (Fully Electric, Fuel-powered, Hybrid Electric), Boat Size (<20 Feet, 20-40 Feet, >40 Feet), Type (Cruising Boats, Tug & Work Boats, Combat Boats), Autonomy and Region - Global Forecast to 2029

Autonomous Boats Market by Propulsion (Fully Electric, Fuel-powered, Hybrid Electric), Boat Size (<20 Feet, 20-40 Feet, >40 Feet), Type (Cruising Boats, Tug & Work Boats, Combat Boats), Autonomy and Region - Global Forecast to 2029

The autonomous boats market is projected to grow from USD 558 million in 2024 to USD 872 million, at a CAGR of 9.3% during the forecast period from 2024 to 2029. The marine sector is growing rapidly due to factors such as increased international trade, technological advancements, and stringent environmental regulations. Increasing expansion and investments in coastal properties particularly in emerging nations is also driving the autonomous boats market. Kongsberg Maritime(Norway), ABB( Switzerland), Rolls-Royce PLC (UK), Hyundai Heavy Industries(South Korea), and Fugro (Netherlands) are some of the leading players operating in the autonomous boats market.

“The Fuel Powered segment to account for highest market share in the autonomous boats market during the forecast period.”

The autonomous boats market has been segmented into fuel powered, fully electric and hybrid electric based on propulsion. The fuel powered segment will contribute to the largest market share during the forecast period. Because of the various benefits including high energy density, extended cruising range, and well-developed refueling infrastructure is contributing to the growth of autonomous boats market. Fuel-powered vessels will benefit from the already established infrastructure for fueling, maintenance, and repair. The widespread availability ensures operational efficiency and reliability, which makes it easier for industries to adopt and integrate autonomous technologies without the need of significant changes in existing logistics.

“The recreational boats segment to account for highest CAGR in the autonomous boats market during the forecast period.”

The autonomous boats has been segmented into Recreational Boats, Commercial Boats and Military & Law Enforcement Boats based on type. The recreational boats segment will hold the highest CAGR during the forecast period. The expansion of water tourism services, increasing population and expenditures in waterfront infrastructure contributes to the segment growth. Autonomous boats offer convenience, enhanced safety features, and the ability to navigate without requiring constant manual control, which makes them attractive option for end users of recreational boats.

“The 20-40 Feet segment is projected to hold the highest market share during the forecast period.”

The autonomous boats market has been segmented into <20 Feet, 20-40 Feet, and > 40 Feet on the basis of boat size. The 20-40 Feet segment of the autonomous boats market is estimated to hold the highest market share because it strikes the best balance between capacity and operational efficiency. This range of sizes is perfect for maneuvering in urban waterways and accommodating fluctuating passenger counts without the high expenses. The increasing need for effective, medium-capacity boats in urban settings and the increased emphasis on sustainable transportation solutions propels the highest market share of this segment in autonomous boats market.

“The Partially autonomous segment is estimated to contribute highest market share during the forecast period.”

The autonomous boats market has been segmented into Partially autonomous, Remotely operated and Fully autonomous on the basis of autonomy. The partially autonomous segment of the autonomous boats market is expected to grow at the fastest rate because of its technological advancement and operational efficiency. The increasing emphasis on sustainable transportation solutions also fuel the demand for this segment market. Partially autonomous boats are technologically mature and reliable compared to other systems. These systems typically combine automation with human oversight, providing a balance between advanced technology and human decision-making, which is essential in complex and unpredictable maritime environments.

“The European market is estimated to lead the market.”

Europe is projected to lead the global autonomous boats market due to its advanced maritime infrastructure, strong technological innovation, and supportive regulatory environment. The region's robust maritime industry, combined with a culture of innovation and government-backed R&D funding, enhance significant growth in autonomous boat technology. Europe's focus on enhancing safety, efficiency, and environmental sustainability in marine operations along with its diverse maritime activities creates high demand for the adoption of autonomous boats solutions.

Breakdown of primaries

The study contains insights from various industry experts, ranging from component suppliers to Tier 1 companies and OEMs. The break-up of the primaries is as follows:

By Company Type: Tier 1–40%; Tier 2–40%; and Tier 3–20%

By Designation: C Level–35%; Directors–25%; and Others–40%

By Region: North America–30%; Europe–10%; Asia Pacific–40%; Middle East–10; Latin America & Africa -10%

Kongsberg Maritime(Norway), ABB( Switzerland), Rolls-Royce PLC (UK), Hyundai Heavy Industries(South Korea), and Fugro (Netherlands) are some of the leading players operating in the autonomous boats market

Research Coverage

The study covers the autonomous boats market across various segments and subsegments. It aims at estimating the size and growth potential of this market across different segments based on propulsion, capacity, operation and region. This study also includes an in-depth competitive analysis of the key players in the market, along with their company profiles, key observations related to their solutions and business offerings, recent developments undertaken by them, and key market strategies adopted by them.

Key benefits of buying this report:

This report will help the market leaders/new entrants in this market with information on the closest approximations of the revenue numbers for the overall autonomous boats market and its subsegments. The report covers the entire ecosystem of the autonomous boats market . It will help stakeholders understand the competitive landscape and gain more insights to position their businesses better and plan suitable go-to-market strategies. The report will also help stakeholders understand the pulse of the market and provide them with information on key market drivers, restraints, challenges, and opportunities.

The report provides insights on the following pointers:

Analysis of key drivers and factors, such as increasing consumer preference for high-quality autonomous boats services, rising global traffic need that could contribute to an increase in autonomous boats market.

Market Development: Comprehensive information about lucrative markets – the report analyses the aircraft cabin interiors market across varied regions

Product Development/ Innovation: Detailed insights on upcoming technologies, research & development activities, and new product and service launches in the autonomous boats market across varied regions.

Market Diversification: Exhaustive information about new solutions, untapped geographies, recent developments, and investments in aircraft cabin interiors market

Competitive Assessment: In-depth assessment of market shares, growth strategies, and service offerings of leading players like Kongsberg Maritime(Norway), ABB( Switzerland), Rolls-Royce PLC (UK), Hyundai Heavy Industries(South Korea), and Fugro (Netherlands) among others in the autonomous boats market. Show more