This paper reviews the development and performance of modern antifouling coatings for marine structures, such as ship hulls and offshore platforms. The historical use of toxic antifoulants, particularly tributyltin (TBT), has been banned due to environmental concerns. Current alternatives include tin-free self-polishing copolymer (SPC) and foul release technologies (FRCs). The paper highlights the challenges and limitations of these modern approaches, such as the need for environmentally acceptable materials and the long-term effectiveness of FRCs. It also discusses the biomimetic approach, which draws inspiration from natural antifouling mechanisms, and the potential of using natural products and surface micro-architectures. The paper concludes by emphasizing the ongoing research and development needed to create universal antifouling coatings that are both effective and environmentally friendly.This paper reviews the development and performance of modern antifouling coatings for marine structures, such as ship hulls and offshore platforms. The historical use of toxic antifoulants, particularly tributyltin (TBT), has been banned due to environmental concerns. Current alternatives include tin-free self-polishing copolymer (SPC) and foul release technologies (FRCs). The paper highlights the challenges and limitations of these modern approaches, such as the need for environmentally acceptable materials and the long-term effectiveness of FRCs. It also discusses the biomimetic approach, which draws inspiration from natural antifouling mechanisms, and the potential of using natural products and surface micro-architectures. The paper concludes by emphasizing the ongoing research and development needed to create universal antifouling coatings that are both effective and environmentally friendly.