Hull inspection in the operational routine of commercial shipping is a regulatory obligation. This ensures seamless and smooth operations of commercial shipping vital to the global economy and the international supply chain. Failure to carry out these tasks may result in adverse consequences for the industry, leading to poor maintenance, poor performance and increased fuel consumption. In this era of digital advancement, service robots are integrated into the rudimentary manual inspection system. The systems are based on machine learning and capable of interacting with the environment to achieve preset goals and offer affordable and efficient alternatives. These advanced artificial intelligence–based alternatives are set to change the entire survey and maintenance landscape. While technological advancements continue, the regulatory governance side to these alternative technological solutions is gathering momentum and calls for a state-of-the-art analysis in light of the standardized requirements at play under the existing international regime.