ABS takes a major leap into immersive maritime education by acquiring MetaSHIP from Orka Informatics. The move aims to transform how seafarers train, anywhere, anytime, through gamified learning and digital vessel simulations.
ABS is pushing the boundaries of maritime training with its latest acquisition of MetaSHIP, a cutting-edge simulation and gamified learning platform developed by Turkey’s Orka Informatics. The deal, pending Turkish regulatory approval, marks a significant expansion of ABS Training Solutions’ digital capabilities, allowing it to deliver advanced training both on board and onshore through a global network of high-tech learning centers.
At the heart of the acquisition is MetaSHIP, a virtual maritime environment that blends realism and interactivity to help seafarers achieve true operational competence without stepping on deck. The platform includes digital vessels, ports, and waterways, and incorporates the ODENES training management system and the Navigational Skill and Behavioral Assessment tool.
“Ultimately, the global maritime workforce must be equipped not only to understand new operating technologies, but to manage the transition itself, navigating hybrid systems, evolving safety standards and dynamic regulatory environments,” said Christopher J. Wiernicki, ABS Chairman and CEO. “Investment in advanced training that delivers true competence rather than minimum standards is not optional; it is a strategic imperative for fleet safety and resilience, environmental compliance and global maritime competitiveness.”
For Levent Şen, founder and innovator of MetaSHIP, the acquisition represents the fulfillment of a long-term vision. “MetaSHIP began as an idea to democratize access to maritime training, to make learning as immersive, realistic, and accessible as possible,” Şen said. “Seeing it evolve into a technology that will now empower seafarers around the world under ABS’ leadership is incredibly rewarding.”
ABS has appointed Campbell Smith as Senior Vice President of ABS Training Solutions to lead the expansion of the company’s immersive training portfolio. Smith, who joins from Maersk Training where he served as Chief Commercial Officer, brings decades of experience in global maritime operations and education.
John McDonald, ABS President and COO, said Smith’s appointment underscores the company’s long-term strategy. “ABS sits at the intersection of regulation, technology and operational safety and is well equipped to support the industry with the tools and insight to operate safely in an increasingly complex environment.”
With the MetaSHIP acquisition, ABS is positioning itself at the forefront of maritime digitalization, combining immersive technology, safety expertise, and global reach to shape the next generation of seafarers.
