See-LEVEL Success with Lyttelton Port Company: A Game-Changer for Maritime Safety

In March 2021, See-LEVEL partnered with Lyttelton Port Company (LPC), New Zealand's largest commercial port and shipping hub, to tackle the pressing issue of seasickness among marine pilots operating the new pilot vessel, Awaroa. This enclosed, high-speed vessel is crucial for boarding operations in the often-challenging waters of Pegasus Bay, directly exposed to the South Pacific Ocean.

The Challenge

Pilot boarding in these waters can be treacherous. Conditions frequently shift from mild to turbulent, and pilots have reported seasickness during crucial moments, especially when studying navigation plans or donning safety gear. Symptoms are often exacerbated during failed boarding attempts or at night, when the horizon is obscured, making the risk of seasickness a serious concern for LPC's team of skippers and pilots.

Captain Chris Coleman's Experience

Captain Chris Coleman, a seasoned pilot on the Awaroa, faced these challenges firsthand. A few years ago, he began experiencing seasickness during his shifts, prompting him to seek solutions. In 2021, he participated in See-LEVEL's volunteer trial program and discovered a transformative remedy: the See-LEVEL headset.

“During the trial, I felt quite queasy out by the heads,” Captain Coleman recounted. “A big north-easterly swell, combined with wind waves across the swell, made the motion very uncomfortable. As soon as I put on the See-LEVEL headset, I felt a lot better, and I continued to improve the longer I wore it. By the time I took the headset off again, I was feeling completely normal.”

A New Standard in Safety

For Captain Coleman and other pilots, being seasick is not just uncomfortable; it can compromise safety. “As soon as I climb up the ladder and the bridge door opens, it’s show time. It’s no time to feel ill. See-LEVEL has made a huge difference for me. As far as I am concerned, it’s a great product.”

Following his positive experience during the trial, LPC decided to invest in a See-LEVEL Companion Edition headset for the Awaroa. This decision was driven by the need to ensure that crew members could quickly alleviate their seasickness symptoms, enabling them to maintain focus on their critical responsibilities and safely guide ships into the harbour.

Conclusion

The collaboration between See-LEVEL and Lyttelton Port Company has not only improved the comfort of the Awaroa crew but also enhanced the safety and efficiency of maritime operations in Lyttelton Harbour. By integrating See-LEVEL technology, LPC sets a new standard for managing seasickness, ensuring that its pilots can perform at their best, no matter the conditions.