Nautis simulators for tug training

VSTEP will initially provide a 360 degree Nautis full mission tug simulator and a 240 degree Nautis desktop trainer to the Iskes/Damen training centre.

Jim Iskes, owner, Iskes Towage & Salvage, said: “For a number of reasons we wanted a tug simulator. We are confident that the simulator will decrease the time needed to train new masters and chief officers.

“But also, the simulator will provide us with a tool to train for emergency situations and to sail under difficult circumstances, such as heavy winds and dense fog.”

At a later stage, these tug and OSV simulators will be expanded with another 360 degree full mission tug simulator to enable the centre to carry out a complete exercise scenario with the assisted vessel and two tugs.

The simulator will initially feature the specifics of Damen 2810 and Damen 3212 ASD tugs. The Damen Fast Crew Supplier 2610 will also be simulated.

The centre will initially be used for internal training, with courses offered for external parties starting in Q2 2014.

Damen and Iskes say the facility is expected to quickly become a centre of excellence for tug and offshore vessel simulation and training.