Sea Machines

Sea Machines Robotics develops autonomous control, remote command, and advanced perception systems for the commercial and defense maritime sectors. Founded in 2015 by marine engineer Michael G. Johnson, the Boston-based company aims to enhance the safety, efficiency, and capability of vessel operations. Johnson's extensive background in marine engineering, including roles at Crowley Maritime and TITAN Salvage, and experiences with maritime incidents, inspired him to apply modern technology to mitigate risks associated with manual control and human perception.

The company's core business involves designing and manufacturing systems that can be retrofitted onto existing vessels or integrated into new builds. Its product lineup includes the SM200 for remote-helm control and the SM300 for autonomous command and control, which enables features like computer-guided navigation, obstacle avoidance, and remote mission management. More recently, the company expanded its offerings with the SM300-NG, software APIs for third-party integration, a cloud data platform called FLEETVIEWER, and turnkey Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs) like the SELKIE and STORMRUNNER. Sea Machines operates on a business model that involves direct sales of its hardware and software systems, with installation and commissioning typically completed within days. The company also offers leasing options for its autonomous vessels. Its technology serves a diverse client base, including commercial workboat operators in sectors like survey, fishing, and offshore energy, as well as government and defense organizations. Notable clients and partners include Maersk, Rolls-Royce, the U.S. Navy, and the Department of Defense.

Sea Machines has secured significant funding to support its growth and technological development, raising over $45 million through multiple rounds. Key investors include Accomplice, Toyota AI Ventures, Huntington Ingalls Industries, and Brunswick Corporation. A significant milestone was achieved in 2021 with 'The Machine Odyssey,' a 1,000 nautical-mile autonomous voyage around Denmark, commanded remotely from the U.S., demonstrating the long-range capabilities of its SM300 system. In late 2024, David "Chip" Wasson took over as CEO to steer the company's expansion into the defense sector, while founder Michael G. Johnson transitioned to the roles of president and CTO to focus on the technology roadmap.

Keywords: autonomous marine systems, vessel control systems, maritime perception technology, unmanned surface vehicles, remote vessel operation, USV, autonomous navigation, marine robotics, commercial maritime, defense maritime, Michael G. Johnson, SM300, SM200, computer vision, situational awareness, obstacle avoidance, fleet management, workboat automation, marine technology, vessel retrofitting, maritime safety, offshore energy, naval technology, government contracts, hydrographic survey, patrol vessels