Spliethoff Group has launched a next-generation maritime training simulator in Manila, a move that underscores the growing complexity of heavy lift cargoes and offshore projects. As vessels and cargoes grow more intricate, the margin for error at sea continues to shrink, making advanced training a critical investment.
The new facility, inaugurated on 10 December by H.E. Marielle Geraedts, Dutch Ambassador to The Philippines, represents a significant upgrade from the systems used since 2015. Developed by the Maritime Research Institute Netherlands (MARIN), the simulator replaces older systems that, while effective, could no longer keep pace with advancements in vessel design, dynamic positioning (DP) capabilities, and cargo complexity.
The new simulator immerses trainees in a 3D environment powered by MARIN’s Dolphin software. This advanced system calculates vessel motions caused by wind, waves, currents, and crane dynamics in real time, providing training scenarios that closely mirror real-world conditions. This leap from classroom theory to operational reality is crucial for preparing crews to handle the complexities of modern maritime operations.
Erwin Meijnders, Crew Director at Spliethoff Group, emphasised the importance of this upgrade: “Safety and precision are at the heart of our operations. The simulator allows crews to train for scenarios they may only encounter a few times in a career.” This capability is particularly valuable in an industry where experience is hard-earned and mistakes can be costly.
The Manila installation is the first of two customised units. A second simulator is scheduled for installation at the group’s Amsterdam headquarters, ensuring that training is aligned across both fleet operations and shore-based planning teams. This dual-site approach will facilitate consistent training standards and better coordination between sea and shore personnel.
The simulator supports a wide range of operations, including crane handling, ballasting, ro-ro operations, and offshore project scenarios in DP2 mode. It features an expanded library of vessel models, such as BigLift Shipping DP2 MC Class deck carriers and Spliethoff DP2 B Type vessels, along with specialised equipment like the pipe handling crane fitted to the B Type series. Crews can practice determining safe operating limits under varying sea states and pre-simulate complex project lifts, effectively stress-testing operations before execution. This capability not only enhances safety but also offers clients a visual preview of how a lift or transport will unfold.
As the maritime industry continues to evolve, the role of simulation in training is becoming increasingly vital. The question is no longer whether simulation can replace sea time but how it can augment and enhance it. With tools like the new simulator, Spliethoff Group is positioning itself at the forefront of maritime training, ensuring that its crews are well-prepared to handle the challenges of tomorrow’s complex and demanding projects.