HGK Shipping is setting new standards in inland waterway transport. The company received a one-year test permit in Flanders to remotely operate a hazardous goods vessel for the first time. The permit was granted by De Vlaamse Waterweg nv.
HGK Shipping will operate the chemicals tanker Walcheren via a Remote Operations Centre east of Antwerp. The project also allows extended navigation times. During this third test phase, only one specially trained employee will be required on board instead of two skippers.
The company aims to address the growing shortage of skilled workers in inland shipping. Remote operations allow more efficient use of personnel while maintaining safety. Authorities approved the system after successful test phases that demonstrated reliability and compliance with safety regulations.
During earlier test phases in Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany, vessels were remotely controlled while full crews remained on board. This requirement no longer applies on the approved Flemish route, as the technology developed with project partner SEAFAR has proven its performance.
In phase three operations, Walcheren will sail with one skipper and one sailor on board during regulated 18-hour navigation periods. A qualified operator at the Remote Operations Centre will control the vessel for four hours while the skipper rests. The sailor will monitor operations from the wheelhouse.
HGK Shipping highlights that approving a chemicals tanker demonstrates strong confidence in the technology. The company plans to expand optimized crew operations to the Netherlands and Germany in coordination with local authorities.
HGK Shipping continues to invest in remote-control technology to make inland shipping more attractive and resilient. New vessels already include the required systems, and older vessels will be upgraded as needed.
