Bureau Veritas: The Sustainable Ship for Polar Expeditions
At 70 metres in length, the Captain Arctic is not your average cruise ship.
Designed as a polar expedition cruise vessel, it has set ambitious targets to operate with nearly zero carbon emissions.
Its propulsion is predominantly powered by renewable energy sources, with an impressive 90% of its energy deriving from wind and solar.
The integration of five rigid sails equipped with 20,000 square feet of cutting-edge solar panels forms the core of its energy system.
This innovative setup is anticipated to slash CO₂ emissions by 90% compared to conventional ships.
BV rigorously assessed the rigid sail system, ensuring its safety and performance met the highest standards, with an Approval in Principle secured in 2023.
Christophe Chauvière, Vice President at Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore, described the Captain Arctic as a “trailblazing example of what’s possible in sustainable maritime design.”
The vessel’s innovative features extend beyond its propulsion system. It combines state-of-the-art accommodations with energy-efficient design, aiming to set a new standard in luxury and environmental responsibility.
“Selar is one of the few shipowners that dare to change the game,” said Laurent Mermier, CEO of Ship-ST.
“We are proud to design the Captain Arctic and its solar wings while collaborating with our partners.”
Innovation in design and purpose
Goltens, the global marine and energy services firm, hosted the keel-laying ceremony for the 'Captain Arctic', a polar exploration vessel designed to redefine sustainable maritime travel, in November 2024,
Held at the company’s Dubai facility, the event marked a step in advancing green technology within the shipping industry.
The celebratory event saw the gathering of Selar's top executives, including CEO Sophie Galvagnon and Technical Director Pierrick Delaunay, alongside partners from Chantier Naval de l'Océan Indien (CNOI), the shipbuilders.
Additionally, representations from Bureau Veritas (BV), Dubai Maritime City and other key stakeholders attended the event.
“This vessel is not only an investment in sustainable tourism but also a commitment to preserving the natural wonders of our planet,” explains Sophie, calling attention to the ship's dual purpose.
Goltens CEO Sandeep Seth described the project as a “testament to the spirit of innovation and collaboration” that characterises the company’s vision for a greener future.
A collective effort for a greener future
This project is a testament to the collective effort of Selar, CNOI, Goltens and Bureau Veritas.
Each partner brings a shared commitment to sustainable innovation.
“The Captain Arctic project embodies a pioneering spirit in sustainable polar exploration,” said Franck Piriou, Director at CNOI. “We’re honoured to build this ground breaking vessel.”
Sandeep emphasises that the vessel’s construction aligns with the UAE’s broader sustainability goals. “Building this hull is also a first for the UAE and it aligns with the government’s vision for a sustainable future,” he said.
Sophie talks a lot about the urgency to address the maritime industry’s environmental impact, which accounts for approximately 3% of global CO₂ emissions.
“There is an urgent need for radical shifts, especially in growing markets like expedition cruises,” she said. “At Selar, we want to inspire and show that sustainable exploration is possible, and even exhilarating.”
As the Captain Arctic progresses, it stands as a symbol of a new era in sustainable travel, embodying the pinnacle of advanced technology coupled with a commitment to collaborative innovation.
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