DNV has been selected as the new construction supervision and classification of the inaugural Northern Explorer (NKS) ship, which is scheduled for delivery by 2026, as well as to collaborate with the Norwegian flag and technology suppliers to improve the rules and standards for the safe operation of hydrogen-passenger ships on motor drive, according to the press release.
“I am very pleased that DNV has joined 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 all-electric vessels is unmatched and makes them the best partner as we continue our mission to build a hydrogen cruise ship,” said Northern Explorer CEO Rolf Andre Sandvik.
“Safety and quality are our top priorities. “DNV’s participation will ensure the integrity of our operations for both investors and future passengers,” he added.
Paal Johansen, senior vice president and global director of the cruise at DNV Maritime, commented: “We look forward to working with the NKS team and the shipbuilder. Their zero-emission cruise concept represents a new paradigm for the industry that we are proud to present to the world. Forward-looking collaborative projects such as this are extremely important to accelerate decarbonization not only for the cruise sector but for the maritime industry as a whole.“
DNV will engage during construction and commissioning to verify that its design and constructions are fully compliant with flag and international mandatory requirements, as a basis for obtaining and maintaining all necessary certificates for safe operation. This engagement also includes plan approval for all master drawings of the ship, as well as the hull, machinery, vessel systems, and equipment installations.
After carefully evaluating offers from shipbuilders in Europe and Asia, NKS signed a letter of intent to build its first vessel with Portuguese shipbuilder West Sea during the SMM trade fair in Hamburg in September.