The Viking Marine Group announced that its Whale and Vessel Safety Task Force will hold on-water demonstrations of its research boat during the Viking and Valhalla VIP Boat Show in Riviera Beach, Fla. (Jan. 30-31) and the Miami International Boat Show (Feb. 11-15).
A Viking-led initiative formed in 2022, WAVS is showcasing the 24-foot Contender to raise awareness of developing technologies designed to improve object detection and reduce the risk of vessel strikes with whales and other marine life and hazards.
“We’re proud to see a 24-foot Contender supporting the WAVS team in developing technology that protects the waters and wildlife we all rely on,” Contender president Joe Neber said in a statement. “Any effort that helps make boating safer and strengthens the future of our sport is one we’re glad to stand behind.”
The Viking Marine Group said the demonstrations are an “important step in expanding industry awareness of emerging tools aimed at improving safety for mariners while protecting marine life.”
More information about the WAVS initiative is available here.
