Shiphandling training

The Port Revel Centre is situated on a 6 ha lake 50 km from Grenoble. It was originally conceived by Sogreah in the 1960s as a means of studying bank erosion in the Suez Canal caused by oil tankers and other mooring and navigation problems, but was gradually transformed into a school providing training in shiphandling on scale models. Each year, 150-200 maritime pilots and captains receive training there.

Trainees embark on 1:25 scale models, giving them a unique sense of what it feels like to handle a ship. This type of training is particularly appreciated by professionals as it perfectly complements their experience on electronic simulators.

The team of instructors consists of experienced maritime pilots. A very wide range of situations can be simulated on the lake, which is fitted with wave, current and wind generators and has a fleet of various types of ship and tug.

Major investment in 2008 and 2009 enabled the lake’s area to be increased by 40% and two new model ships (a new-generation LNG carrier and container ship) to be launched, while additional courses have been introduced.

Recognised as the world’s leading training centre by the profession, Port Revel is also a place where pilots from all over the world meet one another to exchange their expertise.
Port Revel’s experience is also an invaluable asset for Artelia’s Maritime team in providing expertise in the design of ports.