Navigating Future Horizons: The Emergence and Evolution of Vessel Digital Twins

The maritime industry's involvement in digital transformation is currently being accelerated by the increasing integration of new technologies into its processes. As maritime transportation is globally widespread, both for the transport of people and goods, the scientific and technical interest in this area is evident. Among the wide range of digital technologies available, this paper is centered on analyzing the applications of these digital twins, emphasizing their impact on safety, operational efficiency, and sustainability through a comprehensive literature review. In total, 38 journal publications and 28 conference papers have been selected and discussed in this paper, which explores the recent applications of digital twins in vessels. A specific focus on insights gained through the integration of Industry 4.0 and Artificial Intelligence practices, exploring different areas and objectives, is highlighted to determine the current trends and future horizons of digital twins of vessels.