The AHTS simulator, which was developed by Offshore Simulator Centre (OSC) in Norway, is an integral component of the Bourbon internal training policy. It will train crews in anchor handling operations under real conditions to ensure acquisition of the skills required for both new employees and those already working on vessels. The objective is to ensure that everyone masters and practices the Bourbon operating standards and its safety rules.TheBourbon Training Centre is located in the premises of the National Merchant Navy School (ENMM) in Marseilles. It is the natural culmination of the strong partnership established for many years between Bourbon and France's four Merchant Navy Schools, including the one in Marseilles.

Bourbon is the leading employer of the student officers graduating from the French Merchant Navy Schools. In line with the objectives defined in its Horizon 2010 strategic plan, training is a priority for Bourbon to handle the substantial growth in its fleet of new generation high productivity vessels. In order to recruit 4,000 employees by 2010, Bourbon is implementing a series of tools and resources to integrate its newcomers, increase their awareness of the Bourbon culture, and guarantee that they have adopted the company's high standards for operations, quality and safety worldwide. This training centre will also reinforce the continuing education programmes for existing crews.

Bourbon chairman and CEO Jacques de Chateauvieux said, 'Bourbon must meet an unprecedented recruit challenge by 2010. We have largely anticipated this trend in recent years, and this Bourbon Training Centre in Marseilles, which includes this extraordinary AHTS simulator, is just the latest concrete example. It will give both our oldest and newest employees quality training, in complete safety, under real conditions.'