Northern Xplorer (NX) has selected DNV Maritime as class partner on its mission to build the world’s first zero-emissions cruise ship.
“I am very pleased DNV is joining us on this project given their competence and insight as a leading classification society. Their experience in developing new rules and standards for hybrid and fully electric vessels is unrivalled and makes them the best partner to have as we continue on our mission to build a hydrogen-fuelled cruise ship,” Northern Xplorer CEO Rolf André Sandvik said.
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DNV Maritime senior vice president and global cruise ship director Paal Johansen said, “We are looking forward to working with the NX team and the shipbuilder.
“Their zero-emission cruise concept represents a new paradigm for the industry that we’re proud to be part of bringing out into the world. Future-oriented collaborative projects like this are extremely important to accelerate decarbonisation not only for the cruise sector, but for the maritime industry as a whole.”
Designed by naval architects Multi Maritime AS in Førde, Norway, the 250-passenger ship features ABB’s fully electric propulsion system, including the battery and hydrogen fuel-cell technology that will enable to it to sail emissions-free in the Norwegian fjords and further afield as the green shift takes root.
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DNV will be engaged during construction and commissioning to verify that its design and structures are fully in compliance with flag and international mandatory requirements, as the basis for obtaining and retaining all necessary certificates for safe operations.
NX signed a letter of intent for the construction of its first vessel with Portuguese shipbuilder West Sea in September.