Japanese shipping company NYK and telecommunication systems provider MTI Co. Ltd. have successfully tested a ship-to-shore connection for the ship navigation support tool J-Marine NeCST.

Together with Japan Radio, the companies verified the effectiveness of the tool’s functions.

For the test, a fire was presumed to have occurred on the cruise ship Asuka II which is operated by NYK Cruises. The two J-Marine NeCST tools — one aboard Asuka II and the other at NYK’s Crisis Management Center within the NYK head office in Tokyo — were then connected via the internet.

The emergency button on the onboard tool was activated and an emergency checklist and fire control plan were immediately shared on synchronized screens. Prompt communication was then tested via the tool’s chat function. Each of the tool’s functions was confirmed to be effective, according to NYK.

During an onboard emergency, immediate and accurate communication between ship and shore is vital, NYK explained. Currently, onboard crews must report on the ship’s condition by phone, fax, email, or similar while dealing with fire. J-Marine NeCST enables bridging ship and shore, thus reducing the burden placed on the crew. In addition, professional advice from land allows for an understanding of the real progress of the fire extinguishing work on board, NYK further said.

The recent test is part of the company’s efforts to make use of big data, thus addressing a variety of issues.

Separately, NYK said that Shinryo Maru, a new coal carrier, has been delivered by Oshima Shipbuilding. The 92,049 dwt ship, which replaces the previous Shinryo Maru, will transport coal mainly from Australia and Indonesia to generate electricity for Okinawa Electric Power Company.

Image Courtesy: NYK