MarineVerse has been developing and publishing various sailing simulations since 2016. MarineVerse Cup is the latest and most successful virtual reality app from the Australian manufacturer and now also offers a sailing course in addition to tutorials and global multiplayer regattas. This was developed in cooperation with NauticEd, a of the largest e-learning platforms in sailing.
Some impressions:
Virtual regattas at the centre of the game, Germans also at the start
In the game, the sailor initially finds himself in a clubhouse where he can choose where, what and how he wants to sail. They can choose from four different types of boat. In addition to a racing yacht, he can choose between an Opti, a Laser and even a Waszp. The sailing area can also be freely selected, with seven different sailing spots currently integrated.
The tutorials on offer are designed to give non-sailors easy access to the game before they take to the race course. There are daily races and worldwide rankings. Out of a total of over 700 virtual sailors, the user "germanwolf 119" is currently the first German to be listed in 42nd place.
Virtual reality: a cost-effective alternative to reality
One of the providers' main arguments in favour of expanding the digital segment in sailing is the cost. In order to take the helm of a large yacht themselves, budding sailors only need to own VR goggles and download the game for a one-off fee of 20 euros instead of a complete training cruise.
However, some content, such as the multiplayer regattas mentioned above and the experience of foiling on a Waszp, is only accessible with an additional subscription of 13 euros/month. There are two recommendations on the game developer's website regarding the hardware required. If you want to try out virtual sailing first, equipment for around 400 euros is sufficient, while the premium version requires a budget of 2,000 euros.
The developers are continuing to work on making the game as realistic as possible. Wind and weather already vary and are perceived by users as very realistic. Graphically, however, sailing poses major challenges, which is also reflected in the visuals. Nevertheless, the game should also inspire advanced sailors, especially in the cold season, and could be a good addition to the winter programme for sailing clubs. For beginners in particular, it could even become an alternative to a first taster sail.
The video teaser of the virtual reality game:
First virtual sailing course included
This is also the background to the sailing course that has now been published. This is designed to teach the basics in virtual reality and is available when the game is installed. According to the manufacturer, the concept has a number of advantages for beginners in particular. Edward O'Conner from partner NauticEd emphasises the safety of the first sailing lessons: "The real advantage of a VR learning environment for new trainees is that the cost of mistakes does not exist. This leads to a more relaxed, less anxious and less nervous experience."
Sailing Island in Mönchengladbach was the first sailing school in Germany to offer training sessions using a 3D programme and VR glasses. In a 3D-animated harbour, students steer a yacht through a simulated marina. The simulator was convincing for these purposes, but it was not possible to sail.
Download MarineVerse Cup:
E-sailing is also possible without VR glasses
The World Sailing Federation is now also focusing on e-sports and organised the first official world championship in this new discipline in 2018 - with fantastic success. 169,000 e-sailors from 74 countries competed over six months for the first World Championship title. With a fifth place in the semi-final, Jonathan Koch from Überlingen qualified for this year's final of the E-Sailing World Championship. The race is for 10,000 dollars in prize money, which will be split between the top three finishers.
These championships are organised using the free simulation software Virtual Regatta which has become the market leader in the sailing sector and is used by almost all other organisers. It can be played on Windows and Mac computers as well as smartphones and tablets with Android or iOS operating systems, i.e. on virtually all end devices.
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