Our client, an LNG terminal company, appointed Mills Navigation Limited as Independent Maritime Advisor for a real-time navigation simulator study assessing tug configurations for LNG vessel operations.

Background

The client, tug manufacturer and local port authority undertook a real-time navigation simulator study to assess tug configurations and operational limits for LNG carrier movements in the port, initially focused on the existing tug fleet.

MNL’s specific role as Independent Maritime Advisor was to provide experienced professional judgement on the scope, conduct, interpretation and appropriate use of the simulator study outcomes.

• Constructively challenging assumptions where appropriate

• Interpreting simulator outcomes through an operational marine lens

• Identifying sensitivities, caveats and confidence limits within the findings

• Supporting sound, proportionate and defensible decision-making based on the study results

Scope of Consultation Services

Review simulator study documentation, including:

• Simulator objectives and run matrix

• Tug configurations and deployment concepts

• Environmental limits and failure scenarios

• Success / marginal / fail criteria

Provide advisory input on:

• Whether the proposed scope addresses the material marine operational risks

• Whether the scenarios and limits are appropriate for SHLNG operations

• Any notable omissions, optimistic assumptions or sensitivity areas

• Observe selected simulator runs and/or review simulator outputs, recordings and debrief materials

Provide independent professional judgement on:

• The operational credibility of manoeuvres and outcomes

• The distinction between theoretical capability and sustainable operational practice (As witnessed, and based on, the Real Time Simulations witnessed).

• Scenarios or outcomes that appear marginal, finely balanced or context-dependent (this expectation shall be clarified ahead of commencement).

• How pilots, harbour authorities and regulators may reasonably interpret the findings

Post-Simulation Advisory Opinion

Following completion of the simulator programme, MNL provided a plain-English report to the client with the following inputs:

• Overall confidence in the robustness of the simulator findings

• Key sensitivities, assumptions and dependencies

• Areas where conclusions are strong versus areas requiring caution

• Guidance on how the results should be applied — and where caution should be exercised