ABS and UNITED WATERWAYS (UW) have signed a letter of intent to establish a joint venture with River Academy, UW’s training and education subsidiary, to support crew competence and qualification across the European inland barge, river cruise and coastal vessel sectors.
The collaboration will enhance workforce readiness as European operators navigate evolving safety and decarbonization requirements in cruise, freight, and ferry shipping. Training programs align with recognized regional and national standards and continue to support consistent, high‑quality competence management for inland navigation crews.
This initiative addresses strong market demand for fully licensed navigation officers across a global fleet of more than 16,000 vessels. A key component is the ocean to river program, a successful program launched in 2025, which enables experienced ocean-going officers to transition to river vessels. The structured two-year training pathway prepares qualified officers to assume captain roles on river ships, helping expand the available talent pool and support workforce readiness across the sector.
“River Academy has earned a strong reputation for developing the skilled crews that this industry depends on, and we are proud to work together with UNITED WATERWAYS to build on that legacy. This partnership positions ABS as a premier provider of maritime training in the European inland industry and reflects our enduring commitment to safety, serving as a trusted advisor to the maritime community,” said Campbell Smith, ABS Senior Vice President, Training Solutions.
"UNITED WATERWAYS has long recognized that crew competence is fundamental to operational excellence in the European river and inland cruising sector. With River Academy’s proven training capabilities and ABS’s leadership in maritime safety and performance, this joint venture is well positioned to serve the inland cruising industry and help meet the growing demand for qualified crews,” said Ivan Winterhalder, Managing Director of River Academy.
Leading shipowners and operators are turning to ABS for crew training to enhance operational safety and performance. ABS Training Solutions delivers a premium, targeted curriculum addressing the technical, operational, and management needs of the marine and offshore industries, including emerging technologies, regulatory requirements and risk assessment programs. Training is available on demand, virtually, or in person through advanced learning environments that incorporate immersive methods such as game‑based learning and computer simulation. These programs equip seafarers worldwide to meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving industry with a focus on safety, sustainability and operational efficiency.
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