Viking Yacht Co. is expanding evaluation of whale-detection technology with the demonstration of WhaleSpotter aboard the new Viking 70 Convertible. The system uses thermal imaging and artificial intelligence to detect whales ahead of moving vessels, and alert captains to help them avoid potential collisions.
Viking has been working with technology partners for four years to develop and evaluate ways to reduce vessel-strike risk and demonstrate why the 2008 North Atlantic right whale vessel speed rule should be modernized.
“We’re seeing tremendous progress in whale-detection technology, and these systems are becoming more practical and accessible for recreational boats,” John DePersenaire, Viking director of government affairs and sustainability, said in a press release. “The WhaleSpotter demonstration is another example of technology that’s available today and can help captains avoid whales. We want to demonstrate these capabilities in real-world boating conditions.”
Viking said the 70 Convertible is the first sportfish to evaluate WhaleSpotter. The system grew out of more than a decade of research at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution.
