Neptune Robotics
Overview
Neptune Robotics is a technology company that specializes in robotics-driven vessel cleaning. Founded in 2018, it develops underwater robots designed to clean ship hulls more efficiently than traditional methods. These robots help optimize maritime operations by reducing fuel consumption and minimizing carbon emissions. With a focus on sustainable practices, Neptune Robotics is revolutionizing the shipping industry by automating the cleaning process, thus significantly lowering the environmental impact. The company is headquartered in Singapore and was co-founded by Kate Honqian Ma, Jacky IM, and Elizabeth Chan. As of now, it has secured approximately $52 million in funding from notable investors, including Granite Asia.
Recent Developments
- September 29, 2025: Neptune Robotics raised $52 million in a Series B funding round led by Granite Asia, with strategic investment from NYK Line, a major global shipping company. The funds are earmarked to accelerate global expansion, enhance AI-driven service platforms, and boost R&D for new robotic systems, focusing on Japan as a potential key hub.
- This collaboration with NYK Line — one of Neptune's long-standing partners — is expected to extend robotic hull cleaning technology deployment across NYK's global fleet, significantly enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing carbon emissions.
- With increasing global environmental regulations and the push for decarbonization, Neptune's technology is positioned to lead the transition by providing robust and economically viable hull cleaning services that maximize hull protection, reduce operational costs, and contribute to emission reductions.
- Neptune currently operates in 61 ports across Asia, covering about 70% of major international trade routes. Its underwater robots automate cleaning tasks, provide data for performance management, and have already proven to be three to five times faster and safer than human divers.
- The economic impact of Neptune's technology is considerable; biofouling on ship hulls can increase fuel consumption by up to 30%, with estimated costs to the shipping industry of $40-50 billion annually.
- By leveraging advanced AI and robotics, Neptune Robotics aims to further scale its operations and solidify its market position as an industry leader in sustainable marine logistics by 2027.
Company Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | 2018 |
| Headquarters | Singapore |
| Founders | Kate Honqian Ma, Jacky IM, Elizabeth Chan |
| Revenue | Unknown |
| Profits | Unknown |
| Key Investors | Granite Asia, NYK Line, SOSV, HAX |
| Industry | Marine Logistics & Robotics |
| Number of Employees | 120 |
Early History
Neptune Robotics was founded in 2018 in Singapore by entrepreneurs Kate Honqian Ma, Jacky IM, and Elizabeth Chan. The founding concept revolved around addressing the significant challenges associated with marine biofouling, a major issue that increases fuel consumption and emissions in the shipping industry. Early on, Neptune recognized the potential of robotics and AI technologies in transforming traditional cleaning methods that depended heavily on human divers. Its initial focus was on developing robotic systems capable of operating under challenging conditions, including murky waters and strong currents, to ensure effective hull cleaning.
By 2020, after several iterations and technological advancements, Neptune’s robots could efficiently clean vessel hulls at several Asian ports, which marked the beginning of the company's significant footprint in the industry. Early support came from accelerators such as SOSV and HAX, which provided not only capital but also guidance for scaling operations. The company’s initial successes quickly positioned it as a promising entity in the realm of maritime logistics and environmental sustainability.
Company Profile and Achievements
Neptune Robotics operates under a robust business model that combines robotics and AI to deliver high-efficiency hull cleaning services. Its robots employ "cavitation cleaning" technology, deploying high-velocity microdrops of water to dislodge biofouling efficiently. This advanced method allows cleaning to be conducted safely, without the need for divers, thereby aligning with global safety standards.
- 2018: Founded in Singapore.
- 2020: Started operations in various Asian ports, perfecting its robotic technology.
- 2022: Closed a successful Series A funding round, raising $17.2 million from investors including Sequoia China and SOSV.
- 2023: Expanded services to over 50 ports, contributing to Neptune’s reputation as a leader in hull cleaning technology.
- 2025: Secured $52 million in Series B funding led by Granite Asia, enhancing R&D capabilities and global expansion efforts.
Neptune's achievements also include earning endorsements from leading paint manufacturers for its coating-friendly technology and forming strategic partnerships with major global shipping companies, like NYK Line, to further decarbonization initiatives. This approach positions Neptune Robotics not only as a cleaning service provider but also as a key contributor to sustainable maritime industry practices.
Current Operations and Market Position
As of 2025, Neptune Robotics continues to expand its footprint, with operations in 61 major ports across Asia. The company's impact on the industry is significant, particularly in terms of environmental and operational efficiency. By automating the hull cleaning process, Neptune provides shipowners with tools to reduce fuel consumption and emissions significantly — achieving up to 20% increases in fuel efficiency for merchant ships.
Neptune Robotics' competitive edge lies in its technological prowess, particularly its AI-integrated robotic systems capable of operating under adverse conditions, as well as its established presence in strategic Asian ports. These capabilities allow Neptune to set industry standards for efficiency, safety, and environmental sustainability, bolstering its reputation and influence in the global maritime sector.
Conclusion
Neptune Robotics stands as a pioneering force in the marine robotics industry, championing a cleaner and more efficient approach to ship hull maintenance. Its innovative use of AI and robotics not only solves practical industry challenges but also contributes significantly to decarbonization goals. The company's forward-looking strategies, supported by robust financial backing, position it well for future growth.
As Neptune continues to expand and refine its offerings, it is poised to play a critical role in the global maritime ecosystem. Its dedication to innovation and sustainability suggests a promising path toward achieving its vision of substantially reducing shipping emissions and leading the charge in robotic maritime solutions.