In a fast-changing maritime world, debates around new fuels, digitalisation and regulation dominate the headlines. However, one critical factor is often addressed last: the human element. As digital tools on board become more prevalent, so too does the need for robust, practical seafarer training. A recent DNV report underscores this, noting that digitalisation, automation and the transition to low- and zero-carbon fuels will make basic education and hands-on training even more vital.

The responsibilities of today’s seafarers are evolving fast. While stability management remains a core part of maritime training, a persistent gap exists between classroom learning and real-life application, which is where practical training for seafarers is more critical than ever. In the DNV report, seafarers have highlighted that working with the same systems in training as those used onboard is essential for efficient, effective learning. This is where the use of simulators, virtual reality and eLearning tools were all cited as important pillars of training.

To address this growing safety gap, it’s essential for seafarer training to embrace these advanced tools and enhance stability management and overall safety practices, without adding to crews’ workloads, which is where NAPA stands out. We know that technology alone isn’t the solution; effective and practical training is just as critical. That’s why we design training programs to work with seafarers, not against them. As pioneers of the world’s most trusted stability and safety management solution for passenger ships, NAPA has been providing hands-on, multi-day training programmes for its clients.

NAPA partnered with a long-time customer that shares this safety-first ethos: Carnival Corporation. As the world’s largest cruise operator, Carnival Corporation & plc runs the Center for Simulator Maritime Training (CSMART), one of the most advanced maritime training facilities globally. Together, NAPA and Carnival Corporation have built a comprehensive and scalable training programme that places stability management at the heart of officer development, helping crews operate confidently and safely in increasingly complex environments.

Robust stability management is key to ensuring safety, and NAPA Stability allows the crew to pre-plan the vessel’s voyage and stability conditions, while keeping an eye on its vulnerabilities in real-time. The system provides at-a-glance ship stability condition calculations when intact or in the highly unlikely case of damage, even in the most remote locations. Current conditions and stability can be constantly monitored, and upcoming sections of trips can be simulated for effective planning. 

Where it all began: A shared vision of a safer shipping industry

NAPA has been working with CSMART for nearly a decade, first formalizing the collaboration in 2017. As Carnival Corporation’s preferred provider of onboard stability, it was only natural for CSMART to turn to NAPA to develop stability management training for its officers.

From the start, our companies have shared a belief that technology is only as effective as the people using it. And as digital tools become more sophisticated, real operational excellence depends on helping officers understand why a system works, not just how to use it.

What started as a partnership focused on knowledge transfer, and certifying CSMART trainers to provide NAPA Stability training under NAPA’s Train the Trainer program, soon evolved to something much bigger; NAPA now supports dedicated officers from the bridge and engine room teams across the entire Carnival Corporation fleet with training. It moved from in-depth classroom knowledge to the development of a stability theory eLearning tool, and hands-on training with NAPA Stability and NAPA Emergency Computer. Integrated into the bridge simulator environment, the training covers issues that could occur at sea and offers a comprehensive approach to stability management.

Collaboration with impact

The results speak volumes. Since 2018, more than 983 nautical and 448 technical officers have completed stability training through the NAPA-CSMART programme. These sessions go beyond compliance and empower officers to share feedback, ideas and give genuine insight on stability management.

Trainers certified by NAPA benefit from continuous learning, ensuring they can pass on the latest knowledge and best practices to new cohorts of officers. This emphasis on continuous learning helps Carnival Corporation uphold high operational standards fleet-wide.

Equally, CSMART has been instrumental in helping NAPA develop its tools using real-world user feedback. In fact, NAPA Stability and its functions (like the advanced Type 4 loading computer) were developed using the input of users at CSMART to ensure they are responsive to the end user’s needs. This two-way dialogue ensures that NAPA’s solutions remain not only technically advanced but user-centric – a key priority as vessels, regulations, and operational pressures evolve.

Why seafarer training matters

Post-COVID, a large proportion of crew members working aboard cruise ships are on their first contract with less experience. The need to onboard and upskill seafarers quickly and without compromising safety has never been greater.

NAPA and Carnival Corporation are building on their long-standing partnership to tackle this challenge. The companies are working together to co-develop and evolve their training approaches to remain agile and meet the changing needs of seafarer development. From using NAPA’s tools at CSMART’s simulation facilities to piloting new types of learning modules, NAPA is supporting Carnival Corporation in making CSMART a test bed for modern seafarer training, innovation and collaboration with experts, as well as with seafarers, who are at the coalface of transformation.

Setting the standard for safety in the cruise industry

Looking ahead, the partnership between NAPA and Carnival Corporation will continue to focus on more than just skills transfer. CSMART remains a vital testing ground for new NAPA functionalities, ensuring future solutions are aligned with the real challenges officers face on board. At the same time, CSMART provides NAPA and NAPA-certified trainers with opportunities to work together to stay up to date on the latest in stability management.

In an industry where digital transformation is accelerating, Carnival Corporation and NAPA show that investing in people is the most strategic decision a company can make. CSMART is an embodiment of the industry’s commitment to protecting its passengers, crew and vessels by maintaining the best possible operational standards. Because, in the end, technology alone doesn’t ensure safety- a well-trained crew do.

Not just another software: NAPA makes seafarer training easy in a digital era

To know how NAPA Training Solutions can support your fleet and crew, talk to our experts.