Neptune Robotics has secured US$52 million in Series B funding, led by Granite Asia and supported strategically by NYK Line, one of the world’s largest shipping firms.
Neptune Robotics makes underwater robots that clean ship hulls much faster than human divers—3 to 5 times quicker—and do so automatically and safely. Their systems can clean even large Capesize vessels in under 24 hours, working day and night, in clear or murky water, and in strong currents up to 4 knots—about 4 times faster than traditional diving.
Neptune already serves the world’s top bulk carrier and container fleets across 61 ports in Asia, covering around 70% of international trade routes. Their hull-cleaning method is safe for ship coatings and endorsed by leading global paint manufacturers. With over 50,000 large commercial vessels worldwide, robotic hull cleaning is a multi-billion-dollar market. The partnership with NYK Line shows that robotics-powered decarbonization in shipping is ready to grow.
Biofouling—the buildup of algae and barnacles on ship hulls—increases fuel use by up to 30%, costing the shipping industry $40–50 billion every year and producing extra emissions. Traditionally, hull cleaning relies on human divers, one of the most dangerous jobs in the world.
Neptune’s robots automate hull cleaning, reducing fuel costs, cutting emissions, and keeping humans out of harm’s way.
The new funding will be used for research and development, building new robots, AI-based service platforms, and expanding into 20 markets worldwide, with Japan as a possible key hub. NYK, which has been working with Neptune since 2022, is now using the technology across its global fleet of bulk carriers, car carriers, and other ships, which is expected to save even more fuel and reduce emissions further.
Elizabeth Chan, CEO of Neptune Robotics:
“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.”
Granite Asia:
“At Granite Asia, we see Neptune Robotics as emblematic of a new wave of companies redefining global industries through automation and AI. We are thrilled to lead this round and support their mission of scaling technology that delivers both commercial and environmental value. With more than 50,000 large commercial vessels in operation worldwide, robotic hull cleaning represents a multi-billion-dollar market — and Neptune is at the forefront of making it safer, cleaner, and more efficient.”
Hidehiko Sato, General Manager of Ship Business Group, NYK Line:
“We are impressed by Neptune Robotics’ highly efficient hull cleaning technology, which maximized protection to hull coatings and contributes to fuel savings and GHG emissions reduction, as well as compliance with environmental regulation. Through this partnership, we aim to create future business opportunities by combining our strengths. We hope to contribute to decarbonization not only across our fleet but also within the broader shipping sector.”
Neptune Robotics is a tech company that uses robots to clean ships and improve energy efficiency.
Its robots can clean large Capesize vessels in under 24 hours, handle strong 4-knot currents, and work day and night in both clear and murky water. Neptune operates in 61 ports across Singapore and China, covering about 70% of major trade routes, helping shipowners at a large scale.
The company’s services are trusted by the world’s top five bulk carrier and container fleets. Its method is safe for hull coatings, approved by a leading silicone paint manufacturer. Neptune’s robots can clean all types of vessels, helping clients reduce fuel use, cut emissions, and move toward their 2050 net-zero goals.
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