A Neda Maritime VLCC named MT Ascona has become the first ship to be awarded the VC-L+ Descriptive Note for vessel connectivity by Lloyd’s Register (LR), which details onboard requirements for reliable vessel communications, with a focus on livestreaming capabilities.
The VC-L+ Descriptive Note outlines procedures for selecting, testing, and verifying relevant systems, including specifications for hardware and software, network coverage, and data transmission quality.
The aim of the notation is to assist vessel operators in implementing high-quality livestreaming and real-time data exchange technologies to improve their remote monitoring and inspection capabilities, as well as supporting enhanced compliance and operational decision-making.
The project involved LR’s verification of the MT Ascona’s vessel-shore connectivity system, onboard wireless network coverage, and livestreaming capabilities. The vessel successfully met all of LR’s criteria, including availability, speed, and real-time data transmission.
The communication and capability test was conducted in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, approximately 550 nautical miles southwest of the Azores Islands, en route to Rotterdam. The tests included video and audio livestreaming from various onboard locations, including the navigation bridge, engine room, deck, and pump room.
“Our collaboration with LR demonstrates a shared vision for innovative future-ready shipping solutions and commitment towards digitalisation of the industry,” said Theodore Asimakopoulos, Neda Maritime’s Technical Director (Tankers).
“The assignment of the first VC-L+ notation by LR to a vessel under our management is an acknowledgment of the efforts and resources invested for the development of Neda Maritime’s Virtual Presence Onboard (VPO) platform; a high-quality live video streaming and data exchange system.”
“The VPO was initially developed in-house to cope with the pandemic traveling restrictions and was subsequently fine-tuned to become an invaluable tool facilitating remote surveys, audits and troubleshooting.”
In related news, Brazilian company TideWise has received Approval in Principle (AiP) from LR for its new 24-metre uncrewed surface vessel (USV), designed for offshore subsea inspection operations at depths of up to 2,500 metres.
The multipurpose USV incorporates a range of autonomous navigation, obstacle detection, and collision avoidance technologies. The vessel can deploy a work-class electric remotely operated vehicle (ROV) for deepwater inspections and is able to perform multiple tasks based on shipping and offshore companies’ requirements.
“This AiP marks an important milestone for TideWise,” said TideWise CEO Rafael Coelho.
“Our USV eliminates factors such as human error, enhancing reliability and safety in challenging environments. It represents a key solution for the maritime and offshore sectors.”
