Container News reports that Sperry Marine has delivered its first VisionMaster integrated-bridge system for the new Orca Class heavy-lift vessels owned by SAL Heavy Lift, positioning the platform as a benchmark for heavy-lift ship navigation and situational awareness.
These Orca Class vessels — designed for high-performance project cargo operations — combine 14,600 dwt heavy-lift capability with advanced sustainability technologies (including twin all-electric 800-tonne cranes, hybrid propulsion, shore-power connection for zero-emission port operations and methanol-ready systems) while being built to Ice-class 1A and Polar Code standards.
The VisionMaster system enhances navigational and safety performance in challenging environments. Onboard features include VNC watch modes that allow the crew to access key tools such as ice radar directly from the conning position; raw radar data integration with the Rutter Sigma S6 Ice Navigator for enhanced ice detection; fiber-optic gyrocompasses and inertial navigation technology designed to maintain stable heading performance even during GNSS interference or spoofing; plus the new Navistar satellite compass and a full suite of 27-inch VisionMaster Net panel PCs.
To further bolster visual awareness and operational efficiency, the bridge platform integrates an Orca AI camera system, SperrySphere voyage-planning software, XDi multifunction repeaters, and a NAVIPILOT 4500N autopilot that adapts to vessel dynamics, contributing to reduced fuel use and lighter bridge workload.
According to SAL Heavy Lift’s Managing Director, the Orca Class “represents a new era in heavy-lift shipping,” setting a new benchmark for precision, safety and sustainability.
The two-yard build process was completed in China (Wuhu and Weihai shipyards). This advancement marks a meaningful step for navigation technology in high-demand marine freight sectors, reinforcing industry-wide trends toward higher standards of voyage safety, shipping technology integration and maritime infrastructure modernization.
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Source: Container News
