At the end of 2024, the Maritime Skills Academy (part of Viking Maritime Group) hosted London River Services’ Woolwich Ferry Team to our Dover and Portsmouth facilities. It was a pleasure to host General Manager, Darren Ellis and his team as they participated in some training.
Read Darren’s full testimonial below to see what he had to say.
“The Woolwich Ferry Marine Operations Team are responsible for the Woolwich Ferry service delivery, maintenance of assets and infrastructure and asset renewal. The Woolwich Ferry service sits within Transport for London’s (TfL) Rail & Sponsored Services Directorate (R&SS).
The Woolwich Ferry (WF) Marine Operations Team has restructured the ferry service over the past two to three years, which included voluntary compliance with international marine standards, such as The ISM Code, for what is an Inland Waterways Category C ferry service on the Upper Thames River at Woolwich. Part of this voluntary compliance with international marine standards included all of our operational people completing STCW training at the Maritime Skills Academy training centre at Dover.
The WF team found the training facilities at Dover to be state-of-the-art. The training, led by experienced and engaging instructors, provided a positive training experience for all our people. Thereafter, this training has successfully been incorporated into their operational roles at the Woolwich Ferry Service.
The two Woolwich Ferries are modern diesel-electric hybrid double-ended vessels which carry lorries, vans, cars, cyclists and foot passengers. The vessels are equipped with four hydromaster azimuth thrusters for maximum manoeuvrability in a confined and intensive route of operation.
The WF Marine team worked closely with the MSA Portsmouth vessel simulator team to profile the WF vessel operating and manoeuvring characteristics, and for the first time to digitally map the Upper Thames operating area within the Woolwich Reach.
A regular monthly programme of emergency contingency training was completed throughout 2024 with all bridge teams training and exercising using the world-class simulator facilities provided at MSA Portsmouth. The simulator exercises also incorporated some of the more testing vessel manoeuvres specific to the WF service operational envelope.
The simulator training has been a great success and has been enthusiastically received by our bridge teams. It has prepared them for a full range of potential adverse future operational events, ensuring they can react as required if and/or when such events materialise, keeping our people, assets, infrastructure and the environment safe.
Working with the Maritime Skills Academy has been a truly collaborative partnership which has significantly enhanced our operational standards and the service we continually deliver to our customers.”
Viking Maritime Group Marketing and Communications Manager, Jade Jaenicke recently completed a two-day Mental Health First Aider training course as part of the company’s commitment to the well-being of all staff.
Here is an insight into the training from Jade’s perspective and her thoughts after having completed the course.
Becoming a Mental Health First Aider
In a world where conversations about mental health are becoming increasingly normalised, I recently took a step to contribute to this important dialogue by completing Mental Health First Aider training. Along with several of my colleagues at Viking Maritime Group, I spent two days equipping myself with the tools to recognise when others may need support and guidance if they are struggling with their mental health.
Why Choose Mental Health First Aid Training?
Mental health challenges are something many of us face, either personally or through those we care about. Yet, the stigma around discussing these struggles often silences people. I wanted to be part of breaking that cycle. While I often find myself a shoulder to lean on, I realised that having formal training could make my support more effective and informed.
What the Training Entailed
The training was structured to provide comprehensive knowledge and practical skills.
We began by debunking myths and deepening our understanding of common mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and stress. It was eye-opening to see how these issues manifest differently for everyone.
We learned to identify early signs of mental health challenges, ranging from subtle behavioural changes to more overt expressions of distress. Recognising these signs early can make a huge difference.
Much like physical first aid, mental health first aid focuses on immediate assistance. We practised listening non-judgmentally, offering reassurance, and providing information about professional help when needed.
A critical part of the training involved handling situations like panic attacks, suicidal thoughts, or acute anxiety episodes. Role-playing these scenarios was intense but crucial in building confidence for if a situation arises that we would need to deal with.
Jade pictured third from right
Personal Takeaways
The training reminded me that everyone’s story is unique. Rather than trying to “fix” someone, my role as a Mental Health First Aider is to create a safe space where the person feels heard and supported. I now have the skills, knowledge, and confidence to listen, support, and direct someone to where they can best source the relevant help.
Supporting others can be emotionally taxing, so we were taught the importance of maintaining our own mental well-being. This includes setting boundaries and seeking to help ourselves when needed, as well as ensuring we are practising self-care regularly, whether that be taking a long bath or going to the gym.
A kind word, an open ear, or simply showing up for someone can have a profound impact.
Since completing the training, I’ve started noticing how small changes in language and behaviour can make a big difference. Whether it’s at work, with friends, or even strangers, I feel more equipped to navigate conversations about mental health with confidence and compassion.
Becoming a Mental Health First Aider doesn’t mean I have all the answers. But it does mean I’m better prepared to guide someone to the help they need.
I encourage anyone considering Mental Health First Aider Training to sign up. Not only does it enhance your ability to help others, but it also strengthens your own understanding of mental health. Together, we can make a difference.
If you or someone you know if struggling, you can find helpful resources below:
In maritime engineering, few advancements have been as transformative as integrating high voltage (HV) systems in Hybrid DC-powered superyachts. These luxurious vessels, often equipped with cutting-edge technologies and amenities, require sophisticated electrical systems to ensure smooth and efficient operation. For engineers working on such superyachts, having specialised high voltage management training is not just beneficial—it’s essential.
This blog explores why STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) high voltage management training is critical for engineers operating on Hybrid DC-powered superyachts.
Understanding the Complexity of High Voltage Systems and why different rules apply
Unlike their low-voltage counterparts, high-voltage systems are a realm of complexity and danger. Operating at voltages that significantly escalate the potential for electrical hazards, these systems pose risks such as arc flashes, electrical shocks, and equipment failures. Engineers must profoundly understand these systems to manage and maintain them safely.
STCW high voltage management training equips engineers with the knowledge and skills to navigate high voltage systems’ intricacies, ensuring they can handle these potent technologies safely and efficiently.
Ensuring Safety and Compliance
Working with high voltage systems requires strict adherence to safety protocols and regulations. The STCW high voltage management training includes comprehensive modules on safety procedures and correct PPE. Engineers are trained to identify potential hazards, implement safety measures, and respond to electrical emergencies. This training ensures compliance with international safety standards, minimises the chance of accidents on board, protecting the crew and the vessel.
Enhancing Operational Efficiencywith High Voltage Management Training
Hybrid DC-powered superyachts rely mainly on high voltage systems. Efficient management of these systems is crucial for maintaining the yacht’s performance and reliability. STCW high voltage management training equips engineers with the skills to perform routine maintenance, troubleshoot issues, and optimise the performance of high voltage equipment. This proficiency ensures that the yacht operates smoothly, efficiently and safely, providing a seamless experience for its occupants.
Supporting Advanced Propulsion and Energy Systems
Many modern superyachts adopt Hybrid or fully electric propulsion systems, which require high voltage DC power. Engineers must safely manage these advanced propulsion systems to ensure optimal performance and longevity. The STCW training covers the intricacies of high voltage propulsion systems, energy management, and power distribution. This knowledge is essential for engineers to support the advanced propulsion and energy systems that are becoming increasingly common in luxury yachts.
Ensuring Career Advancement and Professional Growth
For maritime engineers, specialised training in high voltage management opens new career opportunities and pathways for professional growth. The STCW certification is recognised globally, enhancing the engineer’s credentials and employability. As more superyachts adopt high voltage DC systems, the demand for qualified engineers with this specialised training will continue to rise.
By completing the STCW high voltage management training, engineers will prove themselves to be at the forefront of this evolving industry, ready to take on challenging and rewarding roles.
In conclusion, STCW high voltage management training is indispensable for engineers working on Hybrid DC-powered superyachts. The complexity and hazards associated with high voltage systems necessitate a high level of expertise and safety awareness. This training ensures that engineers can manage these advanced systems safely and efficiently, contributing to the vessel’s overall performance, reliability, and sustainability.
As the maritime industry continues to grow, the importance of specialised training for engineers cannot be overstated, making STCW high voltage management training a critical investment in their professional development and the future of maritime operations.
To book your place on an High Voltage Course at MSA Portsmouth please visit our course pages today:
