Singapore-based Neptune Robotics, which specialises in robotics-driven vessel cleaning, has raised US$52 million in Series B funding.
Granite Asia led the round. NYK Line, one of the world’s largest shipping companies, also participated.
The funding is earmarked to fuel research and development (R&D), the creation of new robotic systems, AI-driven service platforms, and expansion into 20 markets worldwide, with Japan identified as a potential key hub.
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Biofouling–the accumulation of marine organisms on a ship’s hull–is a massive economic and environmental burden. It increases fuel consumption by up to 30 per cent, costing the global shipping industry an estimated US$40-50 billion annually and driving excess emissions.
Neptune Robotics’s AI-powered underwater robots address this challenge by cleaning ship hulls 3-5 times faster than divers. The systems can clean full-draft capesize vessels in under 24 hours, operate day and night in clear or murky waters, and manage strong currents of up to 4 knots—a capability four times that of conventional diving.
Neptune helps clients cut fuel use, lower emissions, and advance their 2050 net-zero goals. It serves the world’s top bulk carrier and container fleets. Its systems operate across 61 Asian ports, covering Singapore and China, representing around 70 per cent of major trade routes.
According to Neptune Robotics, its robots can deliver up to 10x ROI, cut emissions, and remove humans from dangerous work.
Neptune’s partnership with NYK Line signals that robotics-enabled decarbonisation is ready to scale. NYK, which has worked with Neptune since 2022, is now rolling out the technology across its global fleet of bulk carriers, car carriers, and other carriers.
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Elizabeth Chan, CEO of Neptune Robotics, commented on the investment: “Granite Asia and NYKs’ support validates how far robotics has come in transforming maritime efficiency and sustainability. This round gives us the resources to scale globally, continue innovating, and help shipowners boost returns while cutting emissions.”
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