24/07/2025 – STC Next is upgrading its inland radar training capabilities with the addition of five new NAUTIS simulators from VSTEP. The investment reflects the institute’s drive to enhance student learning, align with evolving European standards, and deepen its commitment to innovation in maritime education.

Modernizing inland radar training

STC Next, a leading training provider in maritime and logistics education, is taking a major step forward in inland radar training. The Rotterdam-based institution has chosen to replace its existing radar simulators with five new NAUTIS Inland Radar Simulators from VSTEP.

Enabling CESNI-compliant training and standardization

These advanced maritime simulators enable CESNI-compliant inland radar training, ensuring alignment with the latest European standards. The upgrade supports STC Next’s mission to modernize and expand its inland navigation simulator curriculum, while providing students with reliable, cutting-edge tools to build essential ship handling and radar skills in a safe and controlled environment.

Enhancing the learning experience and operational efficiency

“By upgrading to NAUTIS Inland Radar Simulators, we can deliver consistent, future-ready inland radar training at our STC Next location,” said Harm Bergsma, sector manager from STC Next. “This investment enhances the learning experience for our students and improves operational efficiency by streamlining maintenance and instructor training.”

With the delivery of these five new radar simulators, STC Next expands its NAUTIS fleet and deepens its collaboration with VSTEP. By working within a unified simulation environment, STC Next ensures that instructors can standardize training scenarios and curricula, reduce complexity, and deliver high-quality simulation-based education.

“This project marks another important milestone in our cooperation with STC Next,” said Tije Vos, Chief Commercial Officer at VSTEP. “We’re proud to support their ambition to deliver modern, standardized, and high-quality training for inland navigation professionals. Together, we’re enabling learning by simulation and empowering the next generation of inland shipping talent.”

A shared vision for the future

This investment reinforces STC Next’s position as a leader in inland radar training and reflects its commitment to shaping the future of maritime education through innovation and excellence.