PONANT has developed an innovative and environmentally friendly luxury cruise vessel in close cooperation with Aker Arctic and Stirling Design International since the beginning of 2016. The PONANT Icebreaker intends to take passengers to never explored polar destinations, such as true geographic North Pole, the Weddell Sea, the Ross Sea and Peter I Island.
To ensure operation in these harsh and ice-infested areas, PONANT contracted Aker Arctic to take part in the design of the vessel. Prior to start of the development, the different operational areas were evaluated to set up the design basis for the operation and vessel technical requirements. Aker Arctic has utilized its long-term experience as an icebreaker designer in developing this world's first luxury icebreaker cruise vessel with PC 2 ice class.
"We are delighted to work with the world’s leading expedition operator PONANT and ship design company Stirling Design International. The combined expertise of the companies involved in the project has resulted in this pioneering cruise vessel for the polar regions" states CEO Reko-Antti Suojanen, Aker Arctic.
PONANT has confirmed the order with the Norwegian shipyard VARD which has previously also built icebreaking vessels based on Aker Arctic design. "We are looking for a continued co-operation in the building phase of the project" says Reko-Antti Suojanen.
Source: Aker