XII, 335 p.AUTOMAR Thematic Network was aiming to foster Spanish research and innovation activity in the maritime industrial sector in order to strengthen their role in Europe. During the six years of the AUTOMAR Network many activities have been carried out, and all the partners have actively contributed. This book, prepared to be presented at the last AUTOMAR meeting, collects in its 14 chapters excellent contributions that show the level of scientific knowledge in this field reached by the Spanish RTD, both at the Universities and at Research Institutions. This book is intended to disseminate the knowledge and applications of the Spanish research groups working on robotics and automation in the maritime industries.AUTOMAR Thematic Network (CICYT-DPI2002-10620-E and 2004-22181-E).Peer reviewed