The work analyzed the role of simulators and technical laboratories in influencing curriculum development strategies of West Africa’s maritime educational sector. The application of IMO’s STCW requirements on simulator based education were also analyzed in juxtaposition with the educational programmes in the higher education maritime programmes of West African institutions. Development knowledge gaps were identified and recommendations made accordingly. The gains of implementing a port simulator training programme for the region’s expanding port sector were emphasized. The focus of the work remains creation of officers with shorter sea time exposure during training.