A training visit aboard the Grand Benelux

Transport and logistics represent an ever-evolving world, essential for ensuring the functioning of supply chains, the mobility of goods, and the interconnection between markets. Never before has this sector been in such need of new talent, offering young people a wide range of professional prospects.

The Grimaldi Group has always been attentive to the training of young people and the promotion of maritime and logistics culture, and professions related to this field. On 19 November, at the port of Monfalcone, the car carrier Grand Benelux became a huge floating classroom, her crew acting as a team of exceptional teachers for 19 students from the B.E.M. Guglielmo Marconi State Higher Education Institute in Staranzano, in the province of Gorizia (Italy). This was made possible thanks to the collaboration of the Monfalcone Port Authority and CETAL, a terminal operator and maritime agency of the Grimaldi Group.

Activities like this are crucial for bringing new generations closer to a field of work which is dynamic, complex and opportunity-rich, yet still relatively unknown, while also fostering their personal and educational growth. This was confirmed by one of the pupils who came aboard the Grand Benelux, in a report he wrote at the end of the visit, which we are pleased to share here.

My name is Luca Filippo Querci della Rovere, and I am in my fifth year at Isis B.E.M. Guglielmo Marconi in Staranzano, studying logistics and transportation. My classmates and I had the extraordinary opportunity to visit the Grimaldi Group’s car carrier Gran Benelux, one of the leading vessels in vehicle transport. This experience allowed us to immerse ourselves in the heart of maritime logistics, gaining deeper insights into the technical and operational aspects that we study every day in class.

Upon arrival at the port of Monfalcone, we were warmly welcomed by the crew, who demonstrated great professionalism and hospitality. Their friendliness immediately put the whole class at ease, creating the ideal atmosphere for a stimulating, educational experience. Our curiosity was palpable and we eagerly directed numerous questions to the ship’s Master and crew. The Officers showed us all over this impressive vessel, revealing her secrets to us.

Our first stop was the bridge, where the entire operation of the ship is managed. Here, the Officers introduced us to the navigation and control instruments, and explained how maritime routes are planned and day-to-day operations are conducted on board.

The Grand Benelux operates on several strategic routes between major European and Mediterranean ports such as Koper (Slovenia), Monfalcone, Alexandria (Egypt) and Derince (Turkey), transporting cars and other vehicles quickly and efficiently. Hearing the Officers speak about the challenges and solutions involved in managing these operations made the concepts we study in school feel much more tangible and relevant.

During the visit we were briefed about the ship’s transport capacity: she can carry over 4,000 cars on her eleven decks, but the number varies depending on the model and size of the vehicles concerned. At the time of our visit, the Grand Benelux was carrying approximately 3,400 cars, mostly SUVs.

We stopped on one of the decks, where the Officers accompanying us explained how cars are loaded and unloaded using the ship’s hoistable decks.

Next, we went to the engine room, an awe-inspiring space where the powerful machinery that drives the Grand Benelux is housed. The engineers provided us with a detailed explanation of the ship’s propulsion system and the importance of regular maintenance to ensure safe and efficient voyages. They also explained how the engines are designed to combine power and efficiency, with particular attention to environmental sustainability. Witnessing this advanced technology – often hidden "behind the scenes" – up close was a unique and invaluable experience for us.

The visit allowed us to connect theory with practice in a direct and tangible way. We saw many of the topics we study in our lessons come to life: from transport logistics to cargo management, route planning, and adherence to environmental regulations.

Also, hearing the crew share their experiences and passion for maritime work was incredibly inspiring. We gained a deeper appreciation of the importance of teamwork and technical expertise in ensuring everything runs smoothly on a ship of this scale.

On behalf of our class, I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the crew of the Grand Benelux for their warm welcome and consideration throughout our visit. This extraordinary opportunity not only deepened our knowledge but also fuelled our passion for the maritime sector.

We also wish to thank the General Manager of the CETAL Maritime Agency, Davide Calzavara, and his staff, for the opportunity they gave us, for welcoming us to their headquarters and for explaining the roles and duties of maritime operators both on board and ashore.

This experience will remain etched in our memories, not just as a special day but as a pivotal moment on our educational journey. Once again, sincere thanks to everyone who made this possible!