Simulations prepare for transport Scheldt tunnel elements
Date
Mar 10 2025
Reading time
1minute
MARIN’s Seven Oceans Simulator centre (SOSc) hosted a fascinating multi-ship simulation project: the transportation of eight massive sections (159x41x10) of the new Scheldt Tunnel (part of the Oosterweel Connection project) from their construction dock in Zeebrugge to their final destination in Antwerp. Mid-2025, each section will be transported with the assistance of four tugboats and one push boat, navigating a challenging route through the North Sea and the Scheldt River. This ambitious operation demands precise planning and coordination.
At the SOSc, we used navigation simulations to meticulously map out the entire journey and evaluate challenging parts of the trajectory. The simulations included a comprehensive setup: a pushing tug positioned behind the tunnel element in the Large Motion Simulator in static mode, and four pulling tugs operated in Multi-Purpose Simulators. These simulations allowed skippers to train their critical skills such as communication, teamwork, manoeuvring, navigation, and crisis management, while accounting for factors like weather conditions, tides, and the powerful currents of the Scheldt River. This intricate configuration enabled Dutch and Belgian pilots, along with experienced tow and tug masters, to evaluate the towing operation under realistic conditions. It ensured that the transportation of the Scheldt Tunnel elements can be carried out smoothly and safely.
In April a training course is scheduled to familiarise the participants involved in the first transportation of the tunnel elements.
For more information contact Gerwin Boomaars.
At the SOSc, we used navigation simulations to meticulously map out the entire journey and evaluate challenging parts of the trajectory. The simulations included a comprehensive setup: a pushing tug positioned behind the tunnel element in the Large Motion Simulator in static mode, and four pulling tugs operated in Multi-Purpose Simulators. These simulations allowed skippers to train their critical skills such as communication, teamwork, manoeuvring, navigation, and crisis management, while accounting for factors like weather conditions, tides, and the powerful currents of the Scheldt River. This intricate configuration enabled Dutch and Belgian pilots, along with experienced tow and tug masters, to evaluate the towing operation under realistic conditions. It ensured that the transportation of the Scheldt Tunnel elements can be carried out smoothly and safely.
In April a training course is scheduled to familiarise the participants involved in the first transportation of the tunnel elements.
For more information contact Gerwin Boomaars.
