UK Maritime Authority Announces Launch of Digital Assessment Platform for Trainee Seafarers
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has embarked upon a major effort to modernize trainee seafarer assessments, moving away from traditional paper-based methods and onto an internet-based digital platform. Digital assessments will become available during the first half of 2026 with about 4,000 candidates expected to utilize this system annually.
The platform, awarded to the International Association of Maritime Institutions (IAMI) in October following a June tender process, features advanced capabilities including multiple choice, written, sketch-based answers, and annotation of high-quality 2D and 3D images such as electronic navigation charts. The system incorporates automated marking functionality and generates unique assessments from a dedicated question bank, ensuring robust data protection and user access security.
This initiative forms part of the Cadet Training and Modernisation (CT&M) Programme, which already introduced electronic Training Record Books (eTRBs) and an updated modern syllabus in September. According to Ajit Jacob, MCA Chief Examiner, digital solutions like these represent a key step toward verifying skills among modern seafarers while assuring certification accurately reflects role-specific competencies required to operate vessels safely and efficiently. This platform will test qualifications related to Deck, Engine, and Electro-Technical Officer Certificates of Competence certifications.
DNV Revises Maritime Simulator Standard to Accommodate Emerging Technologies
DNV has released a comprehensive revision of its Maritime Simulator Systems Standard (DNV-ST-0033), reflecting the maritime industry's rapid adoption of advanced simulation technologies. The 2025 update introduces formal terminology for virtual reality (VR), synthetic environments, and mixed reality, acknowledging the growing diversity of simulation formats used in maritime training and certification programs.
The revised standard dramatically expands foundational competence requirements to incorporate alternative fuels, such as ammonia, hydrogen, ethanol and electric/hybrid propulsion systems - supporting safer and future-ready training that aligns with industry decarbonization goals. Furthermore, this update clarifies classification pathways for simulator types like Class A and D systems while aligning them with ISO 5476 as the international benchmark for lifesaving appliance training systems.
Administrative improvements include streamlined annual audit requirements for certified training providers and new definitions for cloud-based and VR simulation delivery formats. Geir Dugstad, SVP and Director of Ship Classification at DNV, emphasized that high-quality and realistic simulation training plays a vital role in preparing crews for real-world challenges in a rapidly transforming industry. The revision, first published in January 2000, has undergone regular updates, with the 2025 iteration opening doors to innovation by expanding certification opportunities to a wider range of simulation technologies.
Global Maritime Training Consolidation Advances with RelyOn-Simwave Integration
RelyOn is proud to announce Simwave has joined their organization, marking an important step in advancing maritime training excellence and broadening global reach. Through this strategic consolidation, clients and partners now have access to a more extensive and integrated portfolio of safety, electrical, and technical programs both onsite and online.
The collaboration strengthens the Simwave Academy with expanded capabilities, advanced digital learning features, and artificial intelligence-driven capabilities to ensure highest standards of quality and innovation in maritime education. RelyOn, the global leader in safety, skills and competence solutions for safety-critical industries, has now established five centers of excellence, with Simwave continuing as a dedicated Maritime Centre of Excellence forming the backbone of a Maritime Academy.
RelyOn acquired STC Next's training center in Rotterdam's Heijplaat (previously known as STC-KNRM) just 15 minutes away from Simwave to strengthen their total training solutions portfolio and address a global shortage of over 90,000 maritime officers by significantly increasing training and recruitment levels. A joint project between RelyOn and Simwave developed a 30-day waiver training program for ship owners investing in low flash point fuels such as Liquefied Natural Gas or Methanol.
Industry Leaders Convene at Crew Connect Global to Shape Maritime Training Future
Maritime training professionals and industry leaders gathered at Crew Connect Global 2025 in Manila from November 11-13, bringing together over 700 professionals to advance crew competency and training excellence. The conference featured critical discussions on the professionalization of human resources functions in shipping, with emphasis on leveraging digital and data-driven competency management to transition HR roles from operational to strategic.
Learnings at this year's conference focused on the intersection between crew competency, technology and seafarer welfare - as well as challenges associated with global talent management - and seafarer welfare. Maritime Trainer was an active participant, with Singapore Director Akanksha Batura Pai giving an engaging talk on Panel 3 concerning professionalization of HR functions in shipping. Furthermore, Maritime Trainer reaffirmed its commitment to driving maritime training transformation with enhanced competency management and workforce development initiatives.