Viking celebrates return to China

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

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Published: 21 September 2024 21 September 2024

Viking earlier this week celebrated its return to China as the Viking Yi Dun completed her first voyage from Shanghai to Hong Kong (Shenzhen). Viking’s new itineraries include a domestic sailing off China’s coast that highlights rarely-visited destinations and ports to which only Viking has access – something that has never been offered for international visitors. The itineraries operate from September to November on the 930-guest Viking Yi Dun – formerly the Viking Sun – a sister ship featuring the same award-winning design and service as all other ocean ships in Viking’s fleet.

“With its ancient history and rich culture, China is a phenomenal destination that many curious travelers have not yet had the opportunity to experience,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking. "For 15 years, we introduced China to guests on our Yangtze River itineraries. Now, we are proud to offer these exclusive domestic sailings in China, and we look forward to welcoming people to this part of the world in the Viking way.”

The launch of Viking’s new China itineraries was commemorated in Shanghai, where a celebration was held with local officials. Guests were treated to cultural performances, both shoreside and on board the ship, offering an introduction to the country’s rich traditions. Given the historic nature of the inaugural voyage, the Viking Yi Dun was welcomed to port with fanfare from local partners and residents in Zhoushan, Dongtou, Pingtan, Xiamen and Shenzhen. And, at the end of the voyage, guests provided enthusiastic feedback about their time in China.

Bureau Veritas grants AiP for Ponant's low-carbon, wind-assisted passenger vessel design

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

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Published: 19 September 2024 19 September 2024

Bureau Veritas has granted Approval in Principle (AiP) to Ponant, a world leader in cruising, forits new twin-screw sailing passenger vessel concept, Swap2Zero. This project represents a significant advancement in sustainable maritime travel, featuring a design that emphasizes low carbon emission technologies and wind-assisted propulsion.

The vessel concept, measuring 186.2 meters in length, is designed for transoceanic voyages and is equipped with a combination of renewable energy sources, including wind, solar, and low-carbon fuels. Its design aligns with its goal of being close to zero-emission ready by focusing on three core principles: energy efficiency, energy sobriety, and the optimized use of renewable resources. Wind propulsion is the primary method, supplemented by solar power, hydrogen fuel cells, and renewable fuels such as bio and e-methane.

Key features of the Swap2Zero project include the ability to achieve up to 50% wind-assisted propulsion and provide up to one month of operational autonomy. It can operate for 15 days without wind at a speed of 10 knots, or up to 30 days with 50% wind assistance. The vessel concept also incorporates approximately 1,000 square meters of solar panels, Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) and Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFC), batteries, and renewable liquid hydrogen. Additionally, dual-fuel engines certified for biodiesel and biogas support Safety of Return to Port (SRtP) compliance.

A notable aspect of the vessel concept is its advanced carbon capture system, designed to capture and store CO2 emissions, which may be reused or securely stored. The vessel concept also features systems for waste heat and cold recovery, contributing to its overall sustainability.

The Approval in Principle for the Swap2Zero project has been granted in accordance with key international conventions including SOLAS, ILLC, MARPOL, and the IGF Code. It also aligns with Bureau Veritas standards such as the Rules for the Classification of Steel Ships (NR 467), Wind Propulsion Systems (NR 206), and Hydrogen-Fueled Ships (NR 678).

Mathieu Petiteau, Newbuilding and R&D Director at Ponant, said: “This vessel concept represents our vision for the next generation of cruise vessels, showcasing how various technologies, energy sources, and processes can be harmonized to provide optimal autonomy and flexibility, all while being compliant with existing regulations. It is a realistic and profitable approach that achieves the highest level of decarbonization. This project also offers a valuable opportunity to deepen our expertise in innovative technologies, while engaging regulatory and certification bodies, equipment manufacturers, design offices, and shipyards in a collaborative real-world case study, exploring multiple decarbonization strategies we believe in.”

“The Swap2Zero concept exemplifies a significant advancement in maritime sustainability through its integration of wind-assisted propulsion, renewable energy sources, and cutting-edge carbon capture technology. Bureau Veritas is delighted to support such innovative projects that set new standards for eco-friendly maritime travel and demonstrate our commitment to reducing environmental impact," said Andreas Ullrich Global Market Leader - Passenger Ships & Ferries Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore.

Andreas Ullrich, Global Market Leader - Passenger Ships & Ferries at Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore (Left) presents AiP to Mathieu Petiteau, Newbuilding and R&D Director at PONANT

Heraklion to Host 8th Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum in May 2025

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

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Published: 18 September 2024 18 September 2024

The city of Heraklion will host the 8th Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum next May, as the organizers of the East Med’s most important cruise conference, with the support of the Region of Crete and the Heraklion Port Authority and in collaboration with local authorities, prepare to bring this CONFEX event to the country’s largest island for the first time.

2025’s Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum (PSTF) will be held at the Creta Maris Resort Hotel, located in close proximity to Crete’s capital. Heraklion port is expected to see a 20% increase in cruise passenger numbers this year with an equally busy season expected in 2025.

With Piraeus, Santorini and Mykonos accounting for nearly 60% of all cruise activity in Greece, and many destinations in the Mediterranean calling for and some already adopting measures to limit over-tourism in popular destinations, the PSTF 2025’s theme, “The Med: A Compelling Need for New Marquee Ports & Destinations” couldn’t be more topical. The event will bring global cruise industry decision-makers and industry organizations like Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) and MedCruise, in touch with East Med’s stakeholders, to explore solutions and create new exciting itineraries going forward.

Alleviating pressure on overcrowded ports of call, exploring the potential of lesser-known and visited destinations for inclusion in cruise itineraries, and fostering dialogue on sustainable tourism practices are among the key themes to be tabled at the Forum and discussed with cruise executives who have extensive knowledge and operational knowhow of the Mediterranean.

“Topics to be discussed during the two-day conference will include sustainability, marketing and tourism product delivery, guest immersion and satisfaction, overcrowding, new destination entries, port infrastructure, green initiatives and solutions, effective berth allocation solutions, and daily caps on arrivals,” said Theodore Vokos, Managing Director of Posidonia Exhibitions S.A.

In parallel to the thought-provoking panel discussions, the exhibition will feature and promote new and emerging cruise destinations, ports and related infrastructure, cruise companies, travel agencies, tourism consultants and cruise ship suppliers amongst others. The event’s exhibition floor will serve as the platform for the region’s destinations and stakeholders to meet with itinerary and excursion planners, while new port investments and other infrastructure projects, such as the new Heraklion Airport, currently in full swing will be showcased to the cruise industry.

Vokos added: “At the Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum, cruise executives and key stakeholders will have the opportunity to examine ways to secure a sustainable future for ultra-popular destinations, as well as seek a cooperative approach towards introducing cruise passengers to new or emerging ports of call with marquee potential.”

The Regional Governor of Crete, Stavros Arnaoutakis said: “The Region of Crete actively supports the Posidonia Tourism Sea Forum for the cruise sector, which will be held for the first time in Crete.

The presence of numerous cruise lines, specialized tourism agencies and organizations from around the world at the Forum poses a significant opportunity for the continued growth of cruising on the island, which will contribute to reducing seasonality and enhancing Crete's tourism products. It also showcases the island's rich historical, cultural, and environmental assets to visitors from across the globe.

It is with great joy and high expectations that we are preparing to host the forum, organized by the organizers of Posidonia, the most important maritime exhibition in the world. The selection of Heraklion was made in the context of the strategic choice of the Region of Crete for a strong, extrovert, sustainable and competitive tourism sector in Crete.”
Welcoming the selection of Heraklion for the 2025 Forum, Minas Papadakis, CEO, Heraklion Port Authority, Diamond sponsor of the event, noted: “We are excited to announce that the Heraklion Port Authority, with the support of the Prefecture of Crete, will be hosting the 8th Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum 2025 in Heraklion. As we prepare for this prestigious event, we look forward to showcasing our port’s strategic capabilities and our commitment to sustainability and maritime innovation. The forum will offer a unique platform for fostering global partnerships and engaging in forward-thinking discussions that will shape the future of sea tourism. We look forward to welcoming the cruise industry to Heraklion to an event filled with valuable insights and collaboration.”

Significantly important for any port city is the economic impact of cruise activity for the local economy. One such port is Heraklion, where the direct economic impact of the cruising sector brought in €36.05 million to the local economy in the 12-month period ending May 2024, according to a University of Piraeus study.

According to the same study, 72% of cruise passengers who visited Heraklion would recommend it to friends and relatives as a destination of choice for holidays, with 29.1% saying that they would themselves revisit the city as conventional tourists.

During the 13 years since the Forum’s inception, Heraklion will become only the second city, outside Athens, to host the event following the successful 2023 event in Thessaloniki. Heraklion Port, its vibrant city and the Region of Crete are excited to welcome delegates and exhibitors to the May 6-7 Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum.

Sponsors for the 2025 PSTF include: Diamond sponsor - Heraklion Port Authority, Gold sponsor - ODAP (Hellenic Organisation of Cultural Resources Development), Bronze sponsor - Kyvernitis Travel Group, Sponsor – Thessaloniki Port Authority and is organized under the auspices of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs & Insular Policy and the Ministry of Tourism, and is supported by the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping, the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the Association of Mediterranean Cruise Ports (MedCruise) and the Union of Cruise Ship Owners & Associated Members of Greece.

RMC delivers the first Spirit of Tasmania to the owner

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

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Published: 12 September 2024 12 September 2024

The Tasmanian Spirit of Tasmania (TT-Line Company PTY Ltd.) has ordered two car and passenger ferries from Rauma Marine Constructions (RMC) for the challenging open sea route to Australia. The first vessel has now been completed and delivered to the TT-Line Company. The second Spirit of Tasmania vessel was launched in July and, at the same time, the shipyard is building the first multi-purpose corvette for the Finnish Defence Forces.

Today, the Rauma shipyard celebrated the delivery of the Spirit of Tasmania IV to the Owner, TT-Line Company.

‘I want to thank our client for their excellent co-operation, which has enabled us to bring this project to its successful completion. I would also like to thank our partners and the classification society. This vessel is a fine example of the strong shipbuilding expertise in Rauma. We have now built the world’s southernmost LNG ropax ferry as well as the world’s northernmost LNG ropax ferry, namely Aurora Botnia. We wish Spirit of Tasmania IV all the best on its journeys’, says Mika Nieminen, CEO and President of Rauma Marine Constructions.

The Ropax ferries built by RMC will operate between Geelong and Devonport on Australia’s Bass Strait, a route known for its challenging sea conditions, for which these vessels have been specially built. The ships will replace their sister ships built in Finland in the 1990s. The passenger, vehicle and freight capacity of the new vessels is significantly greater than that of its predecessors.

This is the largest single export deal between Finland and Australia. The project carries an employment impact of more than 3,500 person-years
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The shipyard’s current order book extends to 2028

Alongside the TT-Line vessels, construction on the first multi-purpose corvette for the Finnish Navy began last autumn in the company’s dedicated multi-purpose hall. The combined employment impact of the projects is more than 7,000 person-years. RMC’s current order book extends to 2028.

The shipyard in Rauma is investing and renewing itself. RMC is building a new industrial approach to operating that will strengthen the company’s competitiveness and profitability. In addition to expertise, RMC, together with the strong support of the local community has invested in independent steel production, a new multi-purpose hall for Government vessels and a heavy transfer ramp for the shipyard.

This year marks the tenth anniversary since the founding of RMC. Over this period, three of the car and passenger ferries delivered by the fully Finnish-owned shipyard have been awarded internationally: Hammershus (Molslinjen) in 2018, Aurora Botnia (Wasaline) in 2021 and MyStar (Tallink) in 2022.

Key dimensions of the Spirit of Tasmania IV:

Length: 212 m
Beam: 31 m
Draught: 7 m
Gross tonnage: 48,000 t
Speed: 26 knots (48 km/h)
Lane metres: 3,700 m
Passengers: 1,800
Cabins: 301