Seafar NV Receives Approval In Principle From Bureau Veritas For Remote Vessels Operations Technology
Seafar NV Receives Approval in Principle for Communication System from Bureau Veritas
Seafar NV, an Antwerp-based leader in the development and integration of remote vessel operations technology, has recently secured an Approval in Principle (AiP) from Bureau Veritas (BV), a global authority in Testing, Inspection, and Certification (TIC). This approval pertains to Seafar’s innovative communication system, a key component of its remote control technology for ships.
Seafar NV specializes in the management and operation of unmanned and crew-reduced inland and coastal vessels via Remote Operations Centers (ROC). The newly approved digital solution is a synchronous control communication system designed to transfer onboard functions to shore-based operations. This technology enables captains to switch between ROC desks during periods of inactivity without physically moving between vessels. Consequently, Seafar’s system enhances manning efficiency and boosts the competitiveness of waterborne transport by emphasizing safe and effective operations.
The system is tailored to support fully remote control operations at Degree RC3, as defined in BV’s Guidance Note NI641 Guidelines for Autonomous Shipping. It has demonstrated capabilities in maintaining low stable latency, protecting against message errors, and managing outage contingencies. Seafar has already outfitted over 40 ships with this communication system, facilitating crew reduction or unmanned operations.
The AiP was granted in accordance with the notation SYNC-COM, described in BV Rule Note NR467 Rules for the Classification of Steel Ships.
Louis-Robert Cool, CEO of Seafar NV, remarked, “Receiving the Approval in Principle from Bureau Veritas is a significant milestone for Seafar NV. This endorsement validates our commitment to pioneering semi-autonomous and unmanned shipping technologies. Our new communication system, designed to improve manning efficiency and ensure safe operations, is now recognized for its robustness and reliability. This AiP not only strengthens our position at the forefront of maritime innovation but also underscores our dedication to advancing the future of remote vessel operations.”
