South Korean shipbuilder Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) has partnered with Taiwanese shipping company Evergreen to create virtual reality (VR) training solutions for seafarers operating eco-friendly ships. These VR systems have been installed at the Evergreen Seafarer Training Center (ESTC) to aid in the operation of eco-friendly equipment on 16,500 TEU containerships. The launch of the methanol dual-fuel vessel training VR took place on July 11, 2025.
SHI’s VR solutions focus on training seafarers in a virtual environment, allowing them to familiarize themselves with methanol dual-fuel propulsion vessels before real-world operation. Evergreen has ordered 24 of these vessels, marking a significant step toward fleet decarbonization, with deliveries expected between 2026 and 2027.
With increasing environmental regulations and a rise in eco-friendly shipbuilding, effective training programs are essential. SHI’s VR solutions enable direct inspections of critical areas like engine rooms, reducing the need for physical ship boarding. This technology allows seafarers to manage complex systems and provides repetitive training for emergency scenarios, thus minimizing operational risks and maintenance costs.
Dong-yeon Lee, Vice President of SHI, emphasized the importance of tailored VR solutions in enhancing the operational stability of eco-friendly ships. The growing demand for alternative marine fuels underscores the need for comprehensive training for seafarers in the coming years.
Share it now