Crystal Cruises has achieved a river cruise industry first. Through a partnership with Simwave, it has employed a high-tech simulator to provide captains with real-world training. Based at the Simwave simulator centre in the Netherlands, would-be captains will gain a more realistic insight into the realities of river cruise ships.
What will the training involve?
Simwave’s training centre will not only improve safety proficiency for those at the helm of some of the world’s most ground-breaking luxury vessels, but will offer more in-depth training.
Alongside innovative hardware and technology, captains will receive tuition from a dedicated Development Captain who will oversee their training programmes. Creating and executing an extensive curriculum, these experienced river captains will ensure their students leave training with the skills necessary to provide guests with flawless sailing experiences.
The technology
Simwave’s state-of-the-art simulator incorporates pioneering technology. Its 3D mathematical model uses actual specs, bridge layouts and designs from Crystal Cruises vessels; accurately implementing handling characteristics for real-world situation training, and ensuring captains are familiar with the ships’ components when they step on-board.
Joost van Ree, the co-founder of Simwave, says:
“Due to the details in the visual scene such as ropes, navigation objects, etc, it is of great importance that the sharpness and details in the visual system be high quality. This makes it possible to simulate scenarios in complex environments more realistically.”
The bridge simulator in particular includes nine vertically-mounted displays that are integrated within the globally unique mission engine room. The horizontal field of view is 240 degrees and the vertical field of view is 47 degrees, giving the optimal high-density pixel count for safe sailing. The simulator even allows a second captain to train in emergency relief situations on-board the ‘Rhine Class’ ships.
Setting new industry standards
Crystal’s use of this amazing technology is setting new standards in the world of river cruising. The cruise lines CEO and president, Edie Rodriguez, agrees:
“Crystal is committed to setting new standards of excellence in every facet of the Crystal experiences around the world, with the expertise of our captains and officers being of chief importance to the safety and security of our guests,” says Rodriguez. “Innovation and ground-breaking technology are integral to the beautiful new river yachts joining the Crystal River Cruises fleet, and we’re thrilled to extend that innovation to the training of our officers.”
The Crystal Cruises difference
As well as offering simulator training, Crystal Cruises goes above and beyond to ensure the safety and satisfaction of its passengers.
Each officer chosen to helm a Crystal river cruise ship already boasts decades of experience, as well as lifelong knowledge of a region and its waterways. Crystal also employs restricted gangway access and security attendance 24 hours a day, offering guests complete piece of mind.
Would you like to experience the Crystal Cruises difference for yourself? Call our Cruise Concierge on 0207 980 2846 to find your perfect itinerary and book an unforgettable holiday.