In this study, the tribological behavior of Ti₃AlC₂ in both deionized water and artificial seawater was investigated. The tribological mechanisms of different tribopairs in the two aqueous environments were discussed in detail. When sliding against AISI 316L stainless steel, Al₂O₃ and Si₃N₄ in the two environments, Ti₃AlC₂ displayed poor tribological properties, and the mainly wear mechanisms were mechanical wear by counterparts. The tribo-chemical products mainly consisted of TiO₂ and Al₂O₃ in both the liquids. However, the Ti₃AlC₂/SiC tribopair could provide excellent lubrication in both deionized water and artificial seawater. A smooth tribofilm was formed on the Ti₃AlC₂ worn surface, where the tribofilm was the mixture of TiO₂, Al₂O₃ and SiO_x. The tribofilm was believed to be responsible for the excellent lubricating effect. In light of these results, the Ti₃AlC₂/SiC tribopair held promise to serve in marine tribological applications.