The maritime industry is experiencing a steady evolution towards a concept of fully automated ship operation. The implementation and use of automated systems have been debated for many decades, and yet substantial issues remain regarding its achievements in terms of improved safety and efficiency. The assessment of potential impacts (i.e. risk assessment) emerging from the introduction of automation remains a key challenge. The integration and streamlining of operations significantly increase complexity, and the transformations that are introduced tend to produce unforeseen side effects, often with serious safety consequences.