Technology group - Wärtsilä and Sinocrew Maritime Services have launched an advanced maritime simulation suite in Beihai, China, designed to provide enhanced training for seafarers.
The facility aims to equip maritime professionals with the necessary skills to safely embrace new decarbonisation technologies, contributing to the industry´s shift towards sustainability and innovation.
A framework Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) has been signed by Wärtsilä and Sinocrew to develop the first Maritime Advancement in Simulation, Technology and R&D Services (MASTERS) programme site in China.
This new simulation suite order was confirmed by Wärtsilä in the third quarter of 2025.
The Beihai International Seafarer Training Center (BISTC) is noted for its focus on the ASEAN region and features cutting-edge Wärtsilä marine simulators with specialised training solutions, particularly in cruise ship operations, setting a standard for future maritime education and international cooperation.
"Together with Wärtsilä’s expertise and support, we are creating a world-class, international centre of excellence, not merely training seafarers, but preparing them for the future of cruise sector shipping," says Captain WANG Jixuan, Founder/Chairman of Sinocrew Maritime Services.
He adds, "This involves familiarisation with the coming wave of decarbonisation technologies, including those related to future alternative marine fuels. Ultimately, our aim is to build an innovative, sustainable maritime talent ecosystem."
Wärtsilä´s support extends beyond training through comprehensive, long-term service and maintenance contracts. This approach ensures the centre´s technology remains current and reduces the need for unexpected and costly updates.
"The marine industry’s transition to future sustainable fuels and the adoption of new technologies requires a highly skilled workforce. This training centre will be at the forefront of building that competency in a key global shipping region," comments Johan Ekvall, Director, Simulation & Training - Wärtsilä Marine.
He adds, "Our cooperation with Sinocrew will help enable the safe adoption of the new technologies that decarbonisation requires. Seafarers trained on Wärtsilä´s high-fidelity simulators will be more proficient in fuel-efficient voyage planning, engine optimisation, and smooth port operations."
The partnership between Wärtsilä and Sinocrew has matured over more than a decade. The Beihai project is their fourth collaboration involving simulator training, following previous installations in the Wuhan, Rizhao, and Qingdao training centres.
This ongoing relationship underscores their commitment to enhancing the capabilities of maritime professionals through state-of-the-art training solutions.
News and image obtained: "Maritime Informed"
