Nowadays, more and more modern tugs fitted with omnidirectional propulsion systems are integrated in the world-wide tug fleet, replacing older tugs with simple propulsion systems. These high-end propulsion systems demand another mode of operation with the tug.

Tug masters assigned to these vessels are often not sufficiently trained and will only reach about 50% efficiency when working with the tug. But more importantly, they will not meet the minimum requirement on safe handling with regard to the tug operation and performance on the assisted vessel. That poses a high risk to the tug company’s investment and reputation.

Tug control

Trimco can mitigate the risk for such scenarios. Unlike other training centers, we break the entire training palette into tug handling and harbor towage modules. We believe that one can serve on other vessels only if one is in full control of their own vessel. In the tug-handling course, the trainee will be made proficient in controlling the tug at all times and under all operational and environmental conditions.

Once proficient in tug control, the trainee can enter the harbor towage course. In this course, all possible maneuvers and techniques with the tug servicing other vessels are trained. Much emphasis is put on efficiency, effectiveness, safety and fuel consumption. All courses carry a great deal of theory and are supported by full mission simulators.