How to Use ChatGPT for Maritime Operations

ChatGPT and similar large language models have become ubiquitous tools across industries. But how can maritime professionals actually use them effectively? This guide cuts through the hype to show practical applications, along with important limitations to understand.

Where ChatGPT Excels

Drafting Communications

One of the most immediate applications is drafting professional communications. Whether it's correspondence with charterers, port agents, or flag state authorities, ChatGPT can help you:

• Draft initial versions of complex emails
• Translate messages between languages while maintaining professional tone
• Format technical information for different audiences

Example prompt:

Draft a professional email to our P&I club explaining a minor contact incident
during mooring operations at Rotterdam. No injuries or pollution. Minor damage
to fender system. Include request for surveyor appointment.

Explaining Regulations

The maritime regulatory landscape is complex. While ChatGPT shouldn't be your sole source of regulatory guidance, it's excellent for:

• Getting initial explanations of regulations in plain language
• Understanding the intent behind specific requirements
• Identifying which regulations might apply to a situation

Important: Always verify regulatory information with official sources or legal counsel before acting on it.

Technical Documentation

ChatGPT can assist with technical documentation tasks:

• Summarizing lengthy technical manuals
• Explaining equipment specifications
• Drafting maintenance procedures based on manufacturer guidelines

Where to Be Careful

Current Information

ChatGPT's training data has a cutoff date. For current information such as:

• Latest port restrictions
• Current freight rates
• Recent regulatory changes
• Weather forecasts

You should rely on real-time sources, not AI chatbots.

Critical Decisions

Never use ChatGPT for:

• Safety-critical calculations
• Stability computations
• Cargo planning decisions
• Navigation planning

These require verified, certified tools and professional judgment.

Confidential Information

Be cautious about sharing sensitive commercial or operational information with cloud-based AI services. Consider:

• Charter party details
• Commercial negotiations
• Internal performance data
• Crew information

Practical Tips

Be Specific

The more context you provide, the better the output. Instead of asking "How do I improve fuel efficiency?", try:

Our 8,500 TEU container vessel is trading between Rotterdam and Singapore.
Average speed 18 knots, consumption 180 MT/day. What operational adjustments
could reduce fuel consumption without significantly impacting schedule reliability?

Iterate

Don't expect perfection on the first try. Use follow-up prompts to refine the output:

• "Make this more concise"
• "Add more technical detail"
• "Adjust the tone for a formal letter"

Verify Everything

Treat ChatGPT output as a starting point, not a final answer. Always verify facts, especially for:

• Regulatory requirements
• Technical specifications
• Safety procedures
• Legal matters

Integration into Workflow

The most effective users integrate AI tools into existing workflows rather than treating them as standalone solutions. Consider:

1. Email drafting - Use AI for first drafts, then review and personalize
2. Meeting preparation - Generate agenda items and background summaries
3. Report writing - Create structure and initial content for operational reports
4. Training materials - Develop explanations of procedures for crew training

The Bottom Line

ChatGPT and similar tools are productivity enhancers, not replacements for maritime expertise. Used wisely, they can save time on routine tasks and help communicate complex information more effectively. Used carelessly, they can introduce errors and compromise confidentiality.

The key is treating these tools as intelligent assistants rather than authoritative sources. Your maritime experience and judgment remain essential.