Heron Marine Surveyors and Consultants were set up in 2014 at the request of Stena Line to carry out surveys and provide consultancy on operations. It is run by Capt. D Eccles, Master Mariner at P&O for 14 years and Senior Master with Stenna Line for 6 years. In addition to survey work, Capt. Eccles is a ship simulator senior instructor, teaching advanced techniques in handling, bridge management and emergency response. These subjects are taught mainly to Chief Mates and Masters level students as well as external visiting companies conducting training for serving senior officers.