FSX Cargo Ship (Sail/Fly Versions)

This freeware add-on merges maritime operations with flight simulation by offering a detailed cargo vessel capable of both sailing on the open waters and taking to the skies. It was developed jointly by Tracey and Ian Thatcher, featuring advanced animation, immersive wave and smoke effects, and a fully realized 3D virtual cockpit by Bill Holker. Contributors such as Garry J. Smith, Bill Holker, and Ian and Tracey Thatcher applied meticulous attention to texturing and technical details. The result is a complete package that introduces a new dimension of realism to FSX—allowing simmers to navigate shipping lanes or soar overhead in a single model.

Overview

This package provides multiple external schemes based on real-world cargo vessels. These liveries reflect accurate hull designs, deck configurations, and container structures. Created as a freeware release, the modification includes a base model that does not require external downloads. When installed, the ship is found under “FS Shipyards” in the FSX aircraft menu, simplifying selection for both cruising simulations and flight scenarios.

Key Details and Features

• 3D Virtual Cockpit: Carefully modeled by Bill Holker, offering full cockpit instrumentation for navigating the seas or piloting in flight mode.
• Realistic Textures: Texture work by Garry J. Smith, Bill Holker, and Ian and Tracey Thatcher provides authentic ship surfaces and subtle weathering effects.
• Dynamic Effects: Smoke funnels, vessel-specific lighting, wave wake trail, and other animations are integrated to heighten immersion.
• Interactive Elements: Cargo bay details, cockpit door mechanisms, and horn or bell sound outputs add to the overall realism.

Operation

Once the mod is installed, start FSX and locate the container ship under the “FS Shipyards” manufacturer entry. Special commands are included for additional functionality:

• Horn (Cockpit View Only): Press G to activate.
• Bells (Cockpit View Only): Use ZZ for ship bells.
• Open Right Side Cockpit Door: Press Shift+E.
• Reverse/Back Up: Utilize Shift+P to push back.
• Lighting: Tap L to toggle all exterior and interior lights.

In flight mode, treat the ship similarly to a standard FSX aircraft, but keep in mind the specialized flight dynamics adapted to its naval structure.

Installation and Setup

1. Copy the main folder into the “Microsoft Flight Simulator X\SimObjects\Airplanes” directory.
2. Locate the included “Effects” files and move them to the primary FSX “Effects” folder.
3. Launch FSX and select the ship from the aircraft list.

Confirm that all animations and visuals load properly by checking your cockpit view and external views.

Notes for Re-painters

Those who wish to modify the ship’s paint scheme are encouraged to do so. Any repainted files or textures can be shared with the community, and in particular, Tracey and Ian Thatcher request that updated or alternative repaints appear on major flight simulation websites for other enthusiasts to enjoy.

Please check the creators’ resource pages periodically for newly developed vessels, possible modifications, or periodic updates. This cargo vessel is designed to bring distinctive maritime experiences to FSX, and there may be additional ships or boat models in the works.

Developers: Tracey and Ian Thatcher, with 3D VC by Bill Holker and textures by Garry J. Smith, Bill Holker, and Ian and Tracey Thatcher.