Written by Ross McBurnie- Master mariner- MNI- ASOMWS
At MOR Maritime Consultants, we’ve always believed that investment in people is just as important as investment in technology. As the offshore industry rapidly evolves, so too must the way we train and develop the next generation of Dynamic Positioning (DP) operators.
The future of DP training is already being reshaped by AI-driven simulation, immersive virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), and the wider push towards remote and digital learning environments. As someone who has spent two decades at sea and with that extensive experience in DP operations, I’ve seen firsthand how training has evolved—and where it still needs to go.
AI-Driven DP Simulation Training
Artificial Intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s becoming a powerful tool in DP training. AI-driven simulators are now able to create adaptive learning environments that respond dynamically to a trainee’s actions.
Instead of a fixed set of exercises, AI can present unpredictable scenarios, replicate real-world system failures, and assess how an operator manages under pressure, fatigue, or equipment malfunction. Kongsberg maritime, one of the leading providers of DP systems and training are at the forefront of this with their K-Sim platform. The K-Sim simulators utilise advanced physics engines and hydrodynamic modelling to create realistic training scenarios. This allows for adaptive learning, where the simulation responds dynamically to a trainee’s actions, enhancing decision-making skills under various conditions.https://www.kongsberg.com/maritime/products/simulation/
This level of sophistication allows for more realistic, competency-based training, ultimately producing DPOs who are better prepared for the complex realities of offshore operations.
The Role of VR and AR in Offshore Crew Training
The integration of VR and AR technology into offshore training is another exciting frontier.
Full-scale bridge simulators have long been a cornerstone of DP certification, but VR is taking this one step further by offering portable, immersive environments—allowing DPOs to practice tasks in high-fidelity simulations without leaving their homes or offices. For companies and individuals alike, this an interesting development where there are large potential cost saving and carbon output savings associated with travel as well as allowing the seafarer more time at home with their loved ones.
Imagine donning a headset and stepping onto the virtual bridge of a DP2 vessel, practicing field arrival procedures, ASOG management, or emergency response drills—all without setting foot on a training centre floor. As a former seafarer, leaving home while on leave to go on a course was always a bone of contention for many.
AR, meanwhile, is being used to overlay digital information onto real-world environments, providing guidance during system checks or live troubleshooting offshore.
These technologies have the potential to make training more accessible, more engaging, and more aligned with the digital skills today’s offshore operators increasingly require.
Competency Frameworks for the Next Generation of DP Operators
Technology is advancing rapidly, but competency must remain at the heart of DP operations.
Simply passing a course or accumulating sea time will no longer be enough. The next generation of DPOs must demonstrate practical decision-making, critical thinking, and operational resilience in increasingly automated and data-driven environments.
Frameworks such as the IMCA Competence Assurance & Assessment Scheme are evolving to address this. Future competency models will likely blend traditional assessments with AI-driven performance evaluations and continuous digital learning records.
At MOR Maritime Consultants, we advocate for competency-based progression, ensuring DPOs are not just trained, but are proven capable before being entrusted with complex offshore operations.
Offshore Training Challenges in an Era of Digitalisation
Despite all these exciting developments, digitalisation brings its own set of challenges.
- Access to technology remains uneven globally, risking skill gaps between operators from different regions.
- Cybersecurity risks must be considered when developing connected simulators and remote learning platforms.
- Hands-on experience—critical in the DP environment—can never be fully replaced by virtual simulations. While DP simulators have advanced, it is still hard to replicate the realities of a large Offshore construction vessel (OSCV) for example. Manoeuvring into position for DP field arrival trials, accounting for offshore assets both on the surface and Subsea, monitoring VHF communications, monitoring sim-ops in the field, answering the bridge phones, acknowledging alarms, issuing permits to work, and the list goes on.
As we adopt digital training methods, we must ensure that the core principles of seamanship, operational awareness, and human judgement are not lost. Offshore operations still rely heavily on the human element, and no amount of technology can fully replace the value of real-world experience.
Final Thoughts
The future of DP training is not about replacing traditional methods—it’s about enhancing them.
By embracing AI, VR, AR, and remote learning tools, we can build more resilient, better-prepared operators who are ready to meet the demands of a modern offshore industry.
At MOR Maritime Consultants, we’re committed to supporting the development of the next generation of maritime professionals. We believe that by combining technology with a continued focus on competency and operational excellence, we can help shape a safer, smarter, and more sustainable offshore future.
If you’re looking for tailored advice on offshore training programs, DP assurance, DP consultancy or operational best practices, we’d be happy to help. At MOR we have years of operational DP experience to call on in order to ensure our clients receive optimal service and the continued safe operation of their assets.https://mormaritimeconsultants.co.uk/services.
Contact us atinfo@mormaritimeconsultants.co.uk