National Geographic Endurance on sea tests (Image: Ulstein)
National Geographic Explorer, the initial of 2 polar exploration vessels forLindblad Expeditions Holdings Inc constructed by Norway’s Ulstein Verft shipyard has actually effectively finished first sea tests.
According to Ulstein, the sea test examinations were extensive and also consisted of workouts of the propulsion and also navigating systems and also emergency situation maneuvers such as a real-time examination of the Safe Return to Port needs.
The 124 meter x 21 meter, 126-guest National Geographic Endurance is totally maintained with the greatest ice course (PC5 Category A) of any kind of purpose-built guest vessel. It includes the distinct Ulstein X-Bow which, claims Lindblad, will certainly pay for the best, most comfy flight possible, in all sea actions, causing better gas performance and also less discharges for minimized ecological effect.
The ships include a complete ABB power, circulation, control and also automation bundle that consists of twin 3.5 MW Azipod propulsors. All systems will certainly be linked 24/7 to the ABB Ability Collaborative Operations Center facilities for remote tracking and also assistance of vessel systems.
Both ships include 2 8L250MDC and also 2 12V250MDC Wabtec GE Transportation gensets, provided by Wabtec’s Danish companion VMS Group.
The engines satisfy EPA Tier 4/IMO Tier III exhaust requirements without using careful catalytic decrease (SCR) tools and also urea-based after therapy. They incorporate an updated control system, high-pressure usual rail gas shot, two-stage turbocharging, and also progressed exhaust gas recirculation (EGR).
National Geographic Endurance is back in the shipyard presently undertaking last outfitting prior to shipment, established forMarch She will certainly start her initial trip, “Svalbard in Spring: Polar Bears, Arctic Light and Epic Ice” on April 2, 2020.
