Southampton has become the first port in the UK to use the latest computer technology for ship-handling training.

The leading edge unique simulator, PC Rembrandt, has been installed in the docks where it will be used for pilot training, passage plan evaluations and port development work.

In September of last year British Maritime Technology's subsidiary, BMT SeaTech, began tailoring the Rembrandt software to suit the specific demands of the port of Southampton.

The system was designed to simulate a wide range of vessels which typically use Southampton such as roll-on/roll-off ships, cruise liners and tankers.

Rembrandt can also simulate container ships, including the conceptual design of a vessel able to carry 12,500 containers.

Tugs of the correct size, type and bollard pull, traffic vessels and the use of anchors and mooring lines were incorporated and a full set of electronic charts of the Solent area, plus the proposed Dibden Terminal development, are also on the simulator.

Captain James Chestnutt, Southampton's harbourmaster, said: "The simulator will prove an invaluable tool and complement our already stringent training programme for marine personnel.

"The advanced software will give the authority the capability of training for future eventualities and weather conditions as well as the inevitable changes in vessel size.

"This will help to enhance our ability to manage and monitor the safety of the waterways of the entire district by aiding port risk assessments in accordance with the requirements of the Port Marine Safety Code.''

PC Rembrandt is the world's most adopted shipboard simulator, used by many major companies.