Many assorted vessels visit Bangor Marina, but the XOcean Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV) may be the most unusual. Last week, Harbour Master Kevin Baird and his team, MCA staff and Belfast Coastguard welcomed the UK Maritime Minister Baroness Vere of Norbiton, Charlotte Vere, and the dynamic XOcean team.
The vessel Baroness Vere explored might seem unconventional, but it's revolutionising commercial boating.
It is a craft that can remain offshore for extended periods, harvesting large volumes of ocean data. Operators and data analysts remain safely located onshore, connected to the vessels over a satellite link.
As Afloat reported previously, trial operations of the USV took place in the Dundalk Bay area in mid November 2022.
Offering a carbon-neutral approach to mapping vast oceans, it can function untouched for 28 days with a 1,500 nautical mile range, all through satellite communications.
Harbour master Baird commented.” It’s hard to imagine a future where ships are operated from onshore stations, with crews only needed for specific harbour operations. That future is approaching fast, with companies like XOcean, based in Dublin, leading the charge. Thanks to everyone who made this visit memorable and enlightening”.
