Operating a simulator will always be a very different experience to taking control of a real cruise ship with thousands of guests onboard. Even so, simulator-based training can serve both a seasoned marine professional’s need to update skills as well as a rookie.
Routinely taking the helm of some of the highest profile cruise ships on the water, professionals at the Mexican Pilots’ Association (MPA – Sindicato Nacional de Pilotos de Puerto) are fully aware that seafaring involves lifelong learning.
All told, 3,122 cruise ship calls are expected at Mexican ports in 2024 – an increase of 8 percent compared to 2023. As well as changing local conditions, rules covering ship safety, navigation and the marine environment are constantly evolving. In addition, ship system automation is increasing and advances in ship-shore connectivity are changing the way vessels operate.
With so many variables at play, it is hardly surprising that MPA pilots are keen to learn more about the billion-dollar assets given into their care. Intimate knowledge and experience of local navigational conditions, currents, shoals and operational practices can only benefit if those at the controls also understand how best to use the technology placed at their disposal.
Each year, the ABB Marine Academy offers more than 200 training courses to around 1,200 maritime professionals, covering technical and operational topics relating to ABB systems on board ships of all types operating worldwide.
In May 2024, the Academy issued certificates to six elite MPA crew members, acknowledging their completion of a new and marine pilot-focused version of ABB’s blended learning package covering safe, efficient operations of Azipod® propulsion systems. All six pilots added the management level ABB H885 Azipod® training course qualification to their resumés, after studying at Aboa Mare Maritime Academy and Training Center, in Turku, Finland.
“The ABB Azipod® management level course was a crucial experience to fully understand the proper use of Azipod® propulsion systems, as best techniques for ship handling, emergency maneuvers, optimize the capabilities of the propulsion in order to save up to 20% fuel during piloting,” said Mario Alejandro Camacho Vidal, Secretario General del Sindicato nacional de pilotos de puerto de México , Mexican Pilot Association.
Combining traditional classroom sessions with instructor-led simulator training, assignments and e-learning, the ABB Marine Academy package for marine pilots is a new addition to the ‘Safety first’ training modules ABB initially developed for vessels working with Azipod® propulsion in ice-going waters. Strong uptake followed the roll-out of an enhanced version of the course for the cruise sector, while the addition of the pilot-specific module comes after customer requests.
For MPA, the course included five days of simulator-based training under the guidance of two ABB instructors, with the Azipod® Operational Training Course tailored to the needs of marine pilots. Specifics included guidance on the use of Azipod® propulsion from the manufacturer’s perspective, such as system functionalities, power plant, malfunctions and more, as well as resource management and bridge communication.
While system behaviors in all conditions were covered, the emphasis was on pilot voyage and harbor maneuvers, including functionalities during berthing/un-berthing, and the details of the effects of Azipod® propulsion units in different angles, RPM’s and thrust from a pulling propeller.
“Accumulated data on cruise ship operations provides the basis for continuous improvement in simulator modeling for ship handling and close maneuvering,” said Mikko Issakainen, Manager, Global Marine Academy, ABB Marine & Ports. “In addition, the blended ABB program includes an adapted ‘Safety First’ module which focuses on harbor operational safety, as well as original manufacturer training for system operation by pilots and guidance on developing competencies that enhance ship efficiency and sustainability.
“Cruise calls are events in themselves for those on board and for those watching from shore, as some of the most stylish ships on the water arrive and depart. They always demand special attention, and ABB invites MPA’s peers from around the world to find out more about the new training program for enhancing safe, efficient and sustainable Azipod® propulsion operations by marine pilots from the originator of the system,” Issakainen concludes.
For more information contact: marine.academy@fi.abb.com
