MOL Enables Vessel View VR on VLCC Suzukasan

Japanese logistics major Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) has announced the introduction of the Vessel View VR, a virtual reality system that allows for virtual visits on the VLCC Suzukasan (delivered on October 12, 2018).

This is the second vessel, following the car carrier Beluga Ace (Note 1) to feature this innovative technology. "Vessel View VR" combines "VR Solution," developed by NURVE, with 360oC degree photos and videos taken at various areas onboard.

The Suzukasan can transport about 300,000 tons of crude oil in a single voyage. It takes a long time to visit every area on this huge vessel-339.5m long and 60m wide.

As a vessel carrying dangerous goods, safety rules are strict, particularly on deck, where any open flame and even electronic devices are prohibited. That makes it all the more difficult to keep records of everything during an in-person visit. In addition, there are a fewer opportunities to visit the ship because it plies extremely long voyage.

Use of "Vessel View VR", which enables a virtual ship visit "anytime and anywhere," not only eases the limits of conventional ship visits, but also allows for safe ship visits, even on vessels carrying dangerous goods.

"MOL works continually to enhance the contents of such virtual visits to provide customers with more effective explanations of its vessel's capabilities and to promote improved training and a higher safety consciousness among employees, as it strives to become the world leader in safe operation," said a press release from MOL.