This document summarizes a joint session between Korean and Japanese organizations on developing optimal routing for smart ships based on real voyage data. It discusses challenges in autonomous vessel technology including route optimization. A case study was presented on estimating fuel consumption for a container ship voyage from Yokohama to San Francisco using modeled resistance calculations calibrated to real voyage data. The optimal route reduced fuel consumption by 4% compared to the great circle route. The session concluded autonomous vessels are becoming reality sooner than expected due to increasing collaboration between industries and researchers.