Seafy has launched P2T, a push-to-talk communication system that allows crew members to communicate using smartphones connected to a vessel’s existing Wi-Fi network, without relying on internet or cloud services.
The system uses a server installed on board to manage voice communications, users and departmental channels locally. Crew members can communicate between areas such as the bridge, engine room and deck using an iOS or Android application, without requiring a dedicated radio handset for each user.
When external connectivity is available, P2T can also support communications between vessels in the same fleet and with shore-based teams. The system synchronises with shore-based management tools, extending its use beyond onboard communications when a connection is available.
Seafy said voice transmission begins in under 100 milliseconds, while channel management prevents simultaneous transmissions from overlapping. Priority levels are supported, allowing high-priority communications to override an ongoing transmission when necessary.
The system does not record conversation audio, but stores activity logs locally, covering user access, channel activity and transmissions. These records can be reviewed through a management dashboard. User identities, roles and permissions are managed centrally, with access linked to authorised individuals.
Licensing is based on the vessel rather than the number of users, with three configurations available for different vessel types and operational requirements. The system supports up to 1,000 users per ship.
“A vessel cannot depend on an external connection for its departments to communicate. With P2T, crew members can communicate from their smartphones, on board and without internet access, while the shipping company retains full control of the system,” said Raffaele Borgese, Chief Innovation Officer at Seafy.
