Greek shipowner Ionic has agreed a deal to roll out Orca AI’s operational platform across its entire fleet of eight crude tankers and 11 bulk carriers.
The company notes that it has already equipped seven tankers and will extend coverage to a recently delivered vessel and all of its bulkers.
The platform includes the SeaPod digital watchkeeper, which uses computer vision and real-time analytics to detect and classify targets, and the FleetView shoreside application that provides office teams with live navigational data. The system aims to improve safety in congested waters and low-visibility conditions while supporting more fuel-efficient navigation.
“We aim to operate a fleet that not only delivers reliable transport solutions, but also continuous improvement in safety, efficiency and environmental performance,” said Spyros Vlassopoulos, Managing Director at Ionic.
“The Orca AI platform adds a powerful layer of support for our crews, helping us to mitigate operational risk.”
Ionic reports positive feedback from crews on the system’s ability to track objects in poor weather and thermal mode, with fewer close encounter incidents recorded since its introduction.
Orca AI says more than 1,000 vessels are currently signed to use its platform, including ships operated by MSC, Maran Tankers, Seaspan and NYK.
