Initiative launched for remote-controlled inland water transportation in Germany. A specialist in autonomous shipping, Belgian Seafar has joined forces with HGK Shipping and Reederei Deymann to promote partially autonomous, inland waterway shipping on German waterways.
The three parties involved said they see remote-controlled travel or reduced crewed cruises as a groundbreaking solution to preserve the future viability of German and European inland waterway transport.
Seafar said technology and services will be demonstrated on various waterways in Germany, in close collaboration with ministries, public authorities and federal state governments, to verify the safety and reliability of remote-controlled inland waterway transport and reduced crewed ships in real conditions.
HGK Shipping and Reederei Deymann provide seven vessels for the venture, while Seafar showcases the necessary expertise and practical experience. The company has gained operating remote controlled inland waterway vessels and vessels with a reduced crew of two in Belgium.
Seafar will also invest in a remote control center in Duisburg that will operate the ships remotely from the first quarter of 2023.
