Vessel is designed to be the most versatile expedition ship operating in the polar regions
By
Elizabeth Robinson |
Quark Expeditions has contracted Croatian shipyard Brodosplit to build a new polar expedition ship.
Built to Polar Class 6 standards, the ship has been designed to meet the challenges of operating in the Arctic and Antarctica.
The ship will be able to accommodate 200 passengers in 103 cabins and will be staffed by 116 crew members. The yet-to-be-named vessel will be 128 metres long and 21.5 metres wide and have four main engines with diesel-electric gensets that produce 4,400 kilowatts of power so she can sail at a top speed of 16 knots.
Other features onboard the ship will include multiple restaurants, indoor and outdoor observation spaces, two simultaneously operable helidecks and an internal Zodiac hangar designed to facilitate quicker and safer disembarkation. The ship will also offer hotel standard accommodation with spacious cabins.
“Securing this agreement proves, among other things, that the most important international clients have recognised us as a shipyard capable of building and delivering highly complex ships,” said Tomislav Debeljak, CEO of Brodosplit. “This agreement is the result of our innovative approach, and our ability to deliver on our client’s needs. By building this ship, Brodosplit will continue to build our already strong reputation as one of the best shipbuilders in the market. We are pleased to share that The Government of the Republic of Croatia has recognised that this contract will have a significant, positive effect on the Croatian economy, and that the HBOR stands firmly behind this great export deal that incorporates 75% domestic production.”
The project is scheduled to be complete for the 2020-2021 Antarctic sailing season.