Cruise line boosts RNLI crew training
28/03/2006
The RNLI recently took delivery of a state-of-the-art, training vehicle, thanks to the generous donations from passengers and crew members of Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines.
The new Mobile Training Unit (MTU) will be used to instruct crews around the UK and Ireland in essential aspects of navigation. It is equipped with the latest technology and will be used to complement other RNLI training programmes. The beauty of the MTU is that it can be used on location, allowing volunteer crews to train near their homes and lifeboat stations.
MTU instructor Peter White says:
'The equipment on board is extremely realistic and operates on joysticks. It is a re-creation of the bridge on our lifeboats and we can put on screen conditions like fog, rain, vessels on fire and so on, to help crews understand the conditions they will have to deal with in real life situations.'
This latest vehicle cost £60,000 and is one of several specialised units already kindly donated by the passengers and crews of Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines.
Tizzy Perkins, RNLI corporate fundraising manager says:
'We are most grateful to the passengers and crews of Fred. Olsen, who have been supporting us for many years, through raffles, collections and on-board activities. We're absolutely delighted to see this new MTU that will be used for training RNLI volunteer crews - of whom only ten percent come from a maritime background.'
Wendy Hooper-Greenhill of Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines says:
'Thanks must go to our passengers and crews who have contributed so generously, enabling us to hit our fundraising target in four years - a year earlier than anticipated.'