An interactive simulator brings to life the excitement, difficulties, hazards and skills involved in handling ships at sea.

Visitors entering the gallery will experience the action of a 21st century ship's bridge, joining the crew to experience the sights and sounds of the vessel in operation, from the bark of the captain's commands to the vibration of the engine.

The highlight of the gallery is the ship's bridge simulator, based on the software used to train P&O captains and the coxswains of the RNLI. Through five interactive screens, visitors will use real navigational equipment, electronic charts and radars to make their way through scenarios that are graded to suit the expertise of the users. Points are scored, based on performance.

The new gallery aims to help young people to understand more about navigation and the use of technology in plotting a course, negotiating deep and shallow waters, reading charts and taking into account weather conditions and the influence of factors such as vessel loading and weight distribution. The facilities will demonstrate the various roles and responsibilities in every day life on board a ship and provide young people with a better understanding of the importance of communication and teamwork at sea.

As well as the interactive simulator, The Bridge also features a range of museum objects to illustrate sometimes complex subjects. These include a black box data recorder, a gyro-compass and examples of modern GPS navigational systems.

The new gallery is adjacent to the acclaimed 'All Hands' gallery, which offers interactive exhibits based upon the lives and skills of people who work with the sea.

Targeted at young people aged five to 11, it provides practical opportunities to learn about propulsion, cargo handling, signalling, and life as a commercial diver.

The Bridge is linked with the learning objectives of the National Curriculum's Key Stage 2 and 3 and will be used for a range of programmes for families and school groups during term time and the school holidays.

Funding for The Bridge has been provided by the National Lottery through the Millennium Commission, from P&O, and from Trinity House.

Further information can be found at www. nmm. ac. uk