On the first day of the BALTIC-FIT Summer School 2025, participants took part in a dynamic Icebreaking Activity held at the EMERA Remote Shipping Operations Simulator of TalTech Estonian Maritime Academy. The session was led by Olev Tõnismaa, Head of the Simulator, lecturer at the TalTech Estonian Maritime Academy, and marine pilot at the Estonian State Fleet.
Participants were divided into groups, each assigned to command a virtual vessel engaged in a Search and Rescue operation in Estonian territorial waters. Rather than competing, the vessels operated together as a single coordinated fleet. Each team had clearly defined roles — captains, helmsmen, officers of watch — and kept a detailed logbook throughout the mission.
Communication was key: every vessel maintained continuous radio contact with Olev Tõnismaa, who directed the entire operation from a simulated helicopter view. The activity encouraged teamwork, fast decision-making, and realistic insight into multi-ship coordination under emergency conditions.
This hands-on experience provided a memorable and meaningful start to the Summer School, setting the tone for the days of collaboration and learning ahead.
