BMA Recognises Simwave B.V. for IGF Code Training Compliance

The Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA) is pleased to announce the formal recognition of Simwave B.V. in the Netherlands as an approved provider of training under the International Code of Safety for Ships using Gases or other Low-flashpoint Fuels (IGF Code).

This particular approval is a notable milestone: the course was jointly developed by the BMA and Simwave and is the first in the industry to include live LNG bunkering practicals. As a result, the BMA has become the first flag state to exempt the 30-day sea-time requirement under the IGF Code, subject to successful completion of this comprehensive five-day programme. Furthermore, the BMA considers accepting the live LNG bunkering exercises as an equivalence to an on-board bunkering, satisfying the bunkering experience requirement prior to issuing the Bahamas Certificate of Proficiency on IGF (Advanced) Certification.

Simwave’s course combines advanced simulation with real-world training using a fully equipped LNG tank facility, alongside low-flashpoint firefighting instruction delivered at an affiliated centre in the Netherlands. It is already in use for seafarers on Royal Caribbean Group vessels and other Bahamas-flagged ships.

While Simwave is the latest to join our growing portfolio, the BMA maintains a wide network of over 30 recognised STCW training providers worldwide. This reflects our ongoing commitment to high-quality, practical training that meets the evolving needs of the global maritime industry.

A full list of approved training centres can be found here: STCW Training Providers