The future of shipping is set to change dramatically with the arrival of intelligent ships and the Internet of Things. Intelligent ships integrate machine vision, sensors, and automated information exchange to enhance maritime safety and efficiency. These vessels will be capable of autonomous navigation, reducing the need for constant human supervision and enabling optimised route selection based on real-time data. Implementing such technology promises significant economic and environmental benefits, including reduced fuel consumption and emissions. However, the transition to intelligent ships presents challenges, including the requirement for compatible communication architectures, cultural barriers to data sharing and the multitude of stakeholders involved in maritime logistics. Nevertheless, the development of unmanned ships that can operate at fuel-efficient speeds without requiring life-support infrastructure offers a promising solution for reducing emissions. As the maritime industry moves towards a more connected and intelligent future, the integration of AI-based coordination will be essential for achieving sustainable and efficient shipping practices.