Transatlantic maritime ties strengthened with State University of New York visit

The visit marks a significant moment for the University, with Solent and its Warsash Maritime School (WMS) hosting a programme of academic exchange, collaboration and cultural activities designed to strengthen ties between the two institutions.

During the visit, cadets and staff from both organisations took part in a series of structured engagements, including events that enabled students to share perspectives on maritime training and life at sea.

The visit also provided practical opportunities for exchange. WMS cadets spent time aboard the TS Empire State VII, while SUNY cadets visited Solent’s campus and Warsash facilities, giving both groups first-hand insight into each other’s learning environments. Academic staff from Solent and SUNY also met onboard the vessel to discuss future collaboration, building on an earlier visit by US academics this month and reinforcing the University’s commitment to developing cross Atlantic partnerships.

The TS Empire State VII, SUNY Maritime College’s primary training vessel, serves not only as a hands-on learning platform for cadets but also as a national asset for emergency response and disaster relief. Solent staff were given a detailed tour of the ship, led by Cadet First Class Nicholas Cunha, which included the bridge, teaching spaces, engine room, chart rooms and cadet accommodation.

The Solent delegation was also welcomed by the ship’s Master, Captain Christopher Zola, and his officer crew, who shared insights into life onboard and the education delivered at sea. During the visit, Solent’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor James Knowles, presented Captain Zola with the Warsash Maritime School crest as a symbol of collaboration and shared maritime heritage.

Vice-Chancellor of Southampton Solent University, Professor James Knowles, said:

“This visit has been a fantastic opportunity to bring together two leading maritime institutions and to give our cadets an international perspective on their future careers. The similarities in our commitment to high-quality training are clear, but it is equally valuable to explore the differences and learn from each other.

“Strengthening relationships with partners such as SUNY Maritime College is central to our ambition to provide a truly global student experience. By creating opportunities for exchange and collaboration, we are ensuring our graduates are well prepared to operate in an increasingly connected international maritime industry.”

The visit forms part of ongoing discussions between Southampton Solent University and SUNY Maritime College to develop future student exchange opportunities. These ambitions align closely with Solent’s strategic focus on enhancing the student experience while expanding its global connectivity and international outlook.