NauticEd now offering VR sail training
NauticEd (online sailing training) is partnering with MarineVerse (a virtual reality (VR) sailing simulation company), to jointly offer what they say is the first-ever virtual reality sailing course incorporating VR gaming with sailing training techniques and programmes.
The initial VR sailing course, Self Mastery, was co-developed by the two companies and features sailing training in a fully immersive, virtual sailing experience.
The training puts players at the helm of a sailing yacht and helps them learn to trim the sails, manage boat speed, and navigate. The boat reacts to wind conditions and every decision made by the players, giving them instant feedback on how their actions impact boat behaviour. Other more complex modules like docking and manoeuvring within the marina, night sailing, and heavy weather are in production.
Grant Headifen, founder of NauticEd, says the programme will make sailing less intimidating and open to more diverse types of sailors.
“We believe it will be revolutionary for sailing education,” says Headifen.
“As experienced sailors have known for thousands of years, competence requires theory knowledge, practical skills, and lots of experience. VR combines all aspects into a fluid, immersive and fun experience that pushes the boundaries of a user’s imagination in a safe and non-intimidating training environment.”
MarineVerse wants to leverage the growth of modern sailing education as part of its vision to make sailing more accessible and entertaining. The partnership coincides with the fact that online sailing course enrolment has boomed since the pandemic began, with NauticEd reporting a 43 per cent growth in registrations over the past 24 months.
“Sailing has always been about community for me,” says Greg Dziemidowicz, founder of MarineVerse. “With NauticEd we will make sailing instruction more affordable and accessible while inspiring, educating and entertaining a fast-growing community of sailors.”
Instructor trainer Edward O’Conner believes VR training for sailing is a true game changer.
“Just like a flight simulator, virtual reality activates the same neural pathways found in real life,” he says. “By engaging the whole mind and body, VR builds muscle memory and enables longer retention. The real benefit of a VR learning environment for new trainees is that the cost of mistakes is non-existent. This leads to a relaxed and less anxious and less nervous experience.”
O’Conner submits VR will better prepare students for real world, on-water training where they can leverage their experience to advance faster.
