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Simulator trials conducted with commercial mariners from leading tanker, LNG and bulk fleets have provided new insight into how S-100 performs in practice, highlighting improvements in clarity, decision-making and planning — alongside the need for careful implementation and training.
Simulator trials with commercial bridge teams have provided new evidence of how S-100 data performs in practice, with participants identifying significantly more safe waypoints and reporting clearer, more usable chart displays compared to S-57.
Conducted by the UK Hydrographic Office (UKHO) in collaboration with NorthStandard, Seall ECDIS and fleet operators Minerva Marine and the Angelicoussis Group, the trials placed S-100 into realistic navigation scenarios using full mission simulators in Athens.;
Hear perspectives from trial participants from the simulated S-100 trials in Athens
What S-100 changed in practice
Participants were able to plan routes that would previously have been considered unsafe when using S-57 data alone. When planning the route in simulated scenarios, only 5 out of 20 planned waypoints were considered safe using S-57 ENC data, compared to 20 out of 20 safe waypoints when various S-100 data layers and timing adjustments were applied.
Participants also consistently reported improvements in chart clarity, with features such as rotated text and enhanced buoyage supporting clearer interpretation of navigational information.
Body“Working directly with mariners from Minerva and Angelicoussis has given us valuable insight into how S-100 data sets could support real-world operations. Seeing S-102 water-level adjustments combined with S-111 surface current data in a simulator environment helped bring to life some of the operational advantages these products may offer, particularly in narrow and restricted waterways where understanding under keel clearance is critical.
The feedback from crews across different vessel types has been incredibly valuable. By working alongside partners including NorthStandard and Seall ECDIS, we’re able to test how these products perform in practice and feed those insights back into the standards development process, helping ensure future S-100 services are shaped around the needs of end users.”
Body“The trials have generated some really valuable feedback from both the training teams and the crews involved. What’s been particularly encouraging is seeing practical discussion around how S-100 products could be used at sea, alongside honest feedback on usability, operational relevance and training requirements.
"Bringing mariners and trainers into the process in this way is important. Their experience and insight can help shape how these standards develop in practice, supporting a transition that reflects the realities of day-to-day navigation and bridge operations.”
What mariners valued most about S-100
Participants reported that S-100 improves how information is presented and interpreted on the bridge. Feedback indicated that reduced chart clutter, clearer symbology and more intuitive visual cues made it easier to understand the navigational picture.
The ability to view multiple data layers together was also highlighted as a key benefit, supporting a more complete understanding of the environment around the vessel.
Where S-100 makes the biggest difference
Participants identified the greatest value in higher-risk environments, particularly in pilotage, confined waters and berthing operations, where safety margins are reduced and accurate, timely information is critical.
Surface current data and dynamic water level information were seen as particularly useful in these scenarios.
S-100 efficiency and planning benefits
Participants noted that S-100 supports more efficient passage planning by reducing the need to consult multiple information sources. Bringing together bathymetry, water levels and surface currents into a single display was seen to save time and improve ease of verification.
Dynamic water level data was widely regarded as a valuable addition, particularly for under keel clearance calculations and planning safe transit windows.
What still needs to be addressed
While feedback was broadly positive, participants also highlighted important considerations for implementation.
These included the need for effective training and familiarisation, clear and intuitive user interfaces, and the ability to toggle and understand different data layers. Participants also emphasised the importance of avoiding over-reliance on automated calculations and maintaining established safety practices.
Looking ahead
The findings add to a growing body of evidence on how S-100 can support navigation in practice, while reinforcing the importance of a structured and well-supported transition as the industry moves towards adoption.
Explore S-100 test data
The S-100 data sets used during the Greece simulator trials are available to explore, download and visualise via the UKHO’s S-100 data access page.
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