Neptune Robotics, a Singapore-based company developing underwater robots for ship cleaning, has raised $52 million in Series B funding led by Granite Asia, with strategic participation from Japanese shipping major NYK Line.
The new capital will be deployed toward R&D, AI-driven service platforms, new robotic systems, and expansion into 20 global markets, with Japan positioned as a key hub, according to a company statement. Neptune has worked with NYK Line since 2022, and the Tokyo-listed shipping giant is now rolling out the technology across its global fleet of bulk carriers, car carriers, and other vessels.
Neptune’s robotic systems replace divers by cleaning hulls three to five times faster and in far riskier conditions, including murky waters and currents of up to four knots, a speed at which conditions would be challenging or unsafe for human divers. The technology can complete full-draft Capesize vessels in under 24 hours, a fraction of the time required for conventional diving operations.
The company already operates across 61 ports in Asia, covering roughly 70% of international trade routes, and serves some of the world’s top bulk carrier and container fleets. Neptune’s coating-friendly approach has also won endorsements from leading global marine paint manufacturers.
With more than 50,000 large commercial vessels worldwide, robotic hull cleaning is projected to be a multi-billion-dollar market, the statement said. Beyond efficiency gains, the stakes are significant: marine biofouling increases fuel consumption by up to 30%, costing the shipping industry $40–50 billion annually and adding to global emissions.
“Granite Asia and NYK’s 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,” said Elizabeth Chan, CEO of Neptune Robotics.
“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,” Granite Asia said.
In 2022, Neptune Robotics raised $17.25 million in a round led by the then Sequoia Capital China (now Highlight Capital). Matrix Partners China and SOSV also joined the fundraising.
