Kochi, India – As the global shipping industry rapidly accelerates its journey towards decarbonization, Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement (BSM) has taken a significant leap forward by launching its inaugural methanol bunkering simulator at its Maritime Training Centre in Kochi, India. Developed in partnership with maritime technology leader Wärtsilä, this state-of-the-art platform is poised to equip seafarers with the crucial knowledge and hands-on skills necessary for the safe handling of methanol as a marine fuel.
An ammonia bunkering simulation module is set to follow in early 2026, further expanding BSM’s comprehensive alternative fuel training capabilities.
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Future-Proofing for a Low-Carbon Fleet
This pioneering initiative is a cornerstone of BSM’s strategic vision to future-proof its training capabilities and guarantee operational readiness and safety for the burgeoning new generation of low- and zero-carbon vessels.
“The maritime decarbonisation depends not just on new technologies, but also on the people who operate them. Their capabilities are the foundation for safe and efficient vessel operations and a successful energy transition,” emphasized Sebastian von Hardenberg, CEO of BSM.
His statement underscores the critical human element in the industry’s green transition, highlighting that technological advancements must be matched by a highly skilled workforce.
Global Expansion of Alternative Fuel Training
The new simulator in Kochi marks merely the beginning of BSM’s ambitious global training expansion. By the close of 2025, two additional methanol bunkering simulators are slated for commissioning at BSM’s Maritime Training Centres in Poland and the Philippines. This strategic expansion will significantly enhance the company’s capacity to deliver high-impact alternative fuel training worldwide, establishing a robust global network for seafarer upskilling.
Looking ahead to Q1 2026, BSM plans to further augment its Kochi simulator with a dedicated ammonia training setup. This will complete comprehensive simulation coverage across LNG, methanol, and ammonia – the three primary alternative fuels spearheading maritime decarbonization efforts.
Preparing for a Multi-Fuel Future
BSM’s proactive investment in advanced simulation technology and crew training directly aligns with the evolving requirements of its managed fleet. The company is set to take over the management of its first methanol-fueled vessels this year, making these training and upskilling initiatives a fundamental pillar for safe and compliant operations. The rising demand for such expertise is evident: currently, approximately 60 methanol-fueled vessels are operational globally, with over 350 methanol ships expected to be in service by 2030 based on current orders.
“We must be prepared for a multi-fuel future,” stated Capt. Gurpreet Singh, Group General Manager, Training and Development at BSM. “The new Wärtsilä simulator will allow our seafarers to train in a realistic, risk-free environment, preparing them for the complexities of methanol, and soon ammonia, bunkering operations with precision. It’s not just technology investment—it’s a commitment to competence and safety.”
This commitment is echoed by Johan Ekvall, Director Simulation and Training at Wärtsilä, who affirmed their pride in supporting BSM in advancing maritime safety and sustainability through their realistic and technically accurate simulator environment.
Train-the-Trainer: Building Expertise from Within
Recognizing that the energy transition necessitates new skills for instructors as well, BSM is actively investing in training its trainers. A prime example is their participation in the world’s first Train-the-Trainer programme on Alternative Fuels for Sustainable Shipping, held in April in Shanghai, organized by the IMO and World Maritime University (WMU).
This initiative ensures that BSM’s in-house experts are aligned with the latest global standards and methodologies, enabling them to effectively equip ship crews with the knowledge and practical skills required to safely and efficiently handle methanol and ammonia as marine fuels in line with the IMO’s IGF Code.
In line with this, BSM has developed a comprehensive suite of training courses focused on the safe handling of new fuels. Beyond familiarization courses on methanol and ammonia as fuel, the program also includes specialized methanol firefighting courses and simulation-based bunkering courses.
Advanced Simulator Capabilities at a Glance
The new Wärtsilä TechSim 5000 simulator, built on the TechSim 9 platform and certified by ClassNK for both basic and advanced IGF Code training, boasts a comprehensive simulation of methanol fuel systems, including:
- Dual bunkering stations with liquid and vapor return lines
- Real-time monitoring of multiple storage and service tanks
- Low-pressure pump skids, nitrogen systems, and fuel valve trains
- Integrated Automation System (IAS) with interactive controls
- 3D visualization of bunkering stations and prep rooms
- Emergency shutdown (ESD) systems and alarm management
- A suite of e-Tutor scenarios covering bunkering, troubleshooting, and emergency response
About Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement (BSM)
Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement (BSM) is a leading integrated maritime solutions provider. Managing a fleet of 670 vessels, supported by 40,000 crew and 2,000 shore-based employees, BSM delivers safe, reliable, and efficient ship management services. This is achieved through an extensive network comprising 10 ship management centers, 28 crew service centers, and six wholly-owned maritime training centers across the globe.
Beyond comprehensive ship management services, BSM offers a range of complementary maritime solutions tailored to individual customer requirements. As a proud member of the Schulte Group, BSM leverages over 140 years of unparalleled experience in the shipping industry.