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Posted by Caroline Tung
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28 April, 2026
FINNISH maritime technology manufacturer Wärtsilä has launched NTPRO 7, a next‑generation bridge and ship‑handling simulator designed for maritime training.
It is expected to enable maritime training institutions to deliver consistent, high‑quality training for complex scenarios without physical risk, while supporting efficient instruction and familiarity with emerging vessel technologies.
The new platform responds to the maritime industry’s rapid shift to digital navigation, by increasing digitalisation of bridge systems, and growing demands on training institutions to prepare crews for modern, complex vessel operations.
Wärtsilä Marine simulation and training director Johan Ekvall said technology used for training needed to adapt in line with industry standards.
“The requirements placed on maritime training are evolving rapidly as vessel technologies, digital navigation standards and regulatory expectations continue to advance,” Mr Ekvall said.
“NTPRO 7 is designed to help training institutions and academies prepare crews for these changes by providing a future‑ready simulation environment that mirrors modern bridge operations and supports long‑term competence development.
Described as having the ability in “delivering highly realistic, immersive training environments”, NTPRO 7 supports advanced ship‑handling, navigation and decision‑making training across a wide range of operational scenarios.
The new simulator recently received a Statement of Compliance from DNV as proof of independent verification of its compliance and suitability for navigation training.
A key advancement within NTPRO 7 is the introduction of RealSea visualisation powered by Unreal Engine 5, combined with an advanced sound system to deliver a high‑fidelity, physically accurate training environment.
These will be delivered alongside S‑100 ready digital navigation training, which incorporates Wärtsilä Navi-Sailor – an advanced electronic chart navigation system (ECDIS) designed for maritime operations.
Advanced operational training tools like Virtual Watchkeeper with AI‑powered voice command recognition and a suite of vessel models and functions support Wind Assisted Propulsion (WAPS) training.
Together, these capabilities support “realistic decision‑making practice” and instructor‑led training across a wide range of operational scenarios.
NTPRO 7 offers scalable configurations ranging from full‑mission bridge simulators to classroom‑based setups.
The platform also features a new generation of conning and overhead displays that mirror real shipboard systems.
Wärtsilä NTPRO 7 will be commercially available from May 2026.
