Cutting-Edge Maritime Simulator Creates a Highly Realistic and Immersive Training Environment
The state-of-the-art Seven Oceans Simulator centre (SOSc) in Wageningen, Netherlands leveraged advanced projection solutions to become the most realistic simulator center for maritime operations in the world.
Edited by EE Staff
Cool Stuff
Aug 31, 2026
The Maritime Research Institute Netherlands (MARIN) is like the NASA of the seas—one of the world’s leading institutes for hydrodynamic and nautical research that continually pushes the boundaries of safer, cleaner, and more sustainable maritime operations. This state-of-the-art facility, officially opened by His Majesty King Willem Alexander, is designed to be the most realistic simulator center for maritime operations in the world.
At the heart of this groundbreaking project are Barco's advanced projection solutions, which play a pivotal role in bringing simulations to life. In conjunction with Viscon as the systems integrator, the SOSc facility comprises two flagship simulators—the Large Motion Simulator (LMS) and the Full Mission Bridge (FMB)—and several smaller multipurpose solutions, all of which can simulate the full range of maritime operations. This includes standard ship handling training as well as high-risk, multi-player offshore operations.
It took over nine months of construction to build and integrate the supporting framework and steel structures for the building, climate control systems that ensured optimal operating conditions, and the installation of the state-of-the-art simulators, which were custom-tailored to MARIN’s highest standards.
For the project to include a highly realistic and immersive simulation environment that replicated the dynamic conditions of true-to-life maritime operations, the simulators had to be designed to provide accurate and reliable performance as well as withstand the rigors of continuous use day after day. The integration of advanced AV technology meant that the installation required meticulous planning and execution—for a seamless experience.
Imagine standing on a ship’s bridge, waves crashing, winds howling, and the entire world moving beneath your feet. The Large Motion System (LMS) achieves that sensation through the use of a Hexapod motion system offering a seamless 360-degree view created by thirty Barco F70-4K6 projectors inside an 18-meter diameter, 10-meter-high projection dome.
The Full Mission Bridge (FMS) places the operator in the captain’s chair, featuring a 13-meter-wide main projection surface, complemented by two additional rounded dome screens (5-meters each). This approach simulates a realistic side view of the open sea and allows for a highly flexible bridge setup with multiple configurations.
The Multi-Purpose Simulators (MPS) allow for ultra-precise offshore wind farm installation training that can be synchronized to simulate multi-operator crane operations, where split-second precision makes all the difference.
To calibrate and align the LMS and FMS simulators, the team used VIOSO’s specialist warping and blending software for simulation applications that offered the integrator perfect control over the multi-projection set-ups. The combination of the Barco projectors and VIOSO expertise ensured seamless image alignment across the complex projection surfaces.
The successful implementation of Barco's F70 projectors in MARIN's simulators has resulted in a highly immersive and realistic training environment. Advanced projection technology provides stunning visuals with high resolution and brightness, enhancing the overall simulation experience. The project has enabled MARIN to push the boundaries of research and training in safer, cleaner, and more sustainable maritime operations.
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