Viking Captains New To U.S. Rivers Can Now Screw Up In a Simulator!

The Maritime Simulation and Resource Centre (MSRC) has created a mathematical model of the new Viking Octantis which will sail the Great Lakes,

Torstein Hagen, CEO of Viking River Cruises and Ocean Cruises, has never been called bashful when talking about his company's accomplishments.

Viking is proud to claim, "First, we invented modern river cruising. Then, we redefined ocean cruising. Now, experience all the comfort and elegance of our award-winning fleet with an expedition ship built specifically to explore the world's most remote destinations and allow you to immerse yourself in these regions."

Although the Great Lakes region of the United States can not be considered remote, it is an area you don't want to sail if you do not have sailing experience. Especially with a new state-of-the-art expedition ship that carries 378 guests.

To ensure the Captains of the Viking Octanis sail safely, the Maritime Simulation and Resource Centre (MSRC), following the Great Lakes Pilotage Authority (GLPA) initiative and with Viking's participation, has created the mathematical model of the new Viking Octantis.

Paul Racicot, Director of the MSRC, explained, "We have the ability to produce custom navigation locations and ship models to match reality as closely as possible. Our in-house resources allow us to make immediate, last-minute changes to the ship model and databases if the need arises."

Captain Anders Steen, commander of the Viking Octantis, said about the program, "The model is realistic and matches what I experienced on the real ship. I'm looking forward to starting the simulations together with the pilots."

Christian Ouellet, Director of Operations with the GLPA who was present during the training, added, "It is important that our pilots become familiar with Viking's Bridge Resource Management procedures and that the masters fully understand the legal role of the pilot. The propulsion and dynamic positioning system also require adaptation, especially in the locks. Masters and pilots worked positively and collaboratively to understand each other's roles, responsibilities, and limitations. We are very pleased with our initiative and look forward to a long collaboration between the GLPA and Viking,"