Goltens Hosts Keel-Laying Ceremony For Captain Arctic, A Groundbreaking Polar Expedition Vessel

By
Mfame Editor
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18

UAE-based engineering company Goltens hosted the keel-laying ceremony for the Captain Arctic, a cutting-edge polar expedition vessel commissioned by French ship operator Selar. The ceremony marked a significant milestone in developing a sustainable luxury cruise vessel designed for the Arctic’s fragile ecosystem.

Vessel Specifications and Features

  • Dimensions and Capacity:
    • Length: 70 meters
    • Accommodation: 36 passengers and 24 crew members
  • Renewable Energy Integration:
    • Photovoltaic Sails:
      • 35-meter-high aluminium sails with retractable features.
      • Integrated with 2,000 square meters of advanced solar panels.
    • Wind and Hydro Power:
      • Harnesses wind for primary propulsion.
      • Equipped with propeller shafts that double as hydro turbines to generate energy.
  • Sustainability Innovations:
    • Carbon Footprint:
      • 90% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to conventional vessels.
    • Freshwater Generation:
      • Utilizes reverse osmosis to create fresh water from seawater.
    • Heating System:
      • Employs organic heating via recycled wooden waste pellets.
    • Zero-Waste Policy:
      • Advanced onboard systems to ensure no waste is discharged into the sea.

Project Highlights

The Captain Arctic is being constructed in collaboration with Le Chantier Naval de l’Océan Indien (CNOI), a Mauritius-based shipbuilder. It will be classed by the French classification society Bureau Veritas (BV). When delivered in 2026, the vessel is expected to redefine environmentally responsible cruising.

Sophie Galvagnon, CEO of Selar, emphasized the vessel as an investment in sustainable tourism and environmental preservation. Sandeep Seth, CEO of Goltens, highlighted the project’s alignment with both their green vision and the UAE government’s sustainability goals.

Wind Propulsion Growth in France

France’s wind propulsion industry saw remarkable progress in 2024. Four large wind-powered cargo ships were added to the fleet, bringing the total to 11 vessels. Additionally, 15 more vessels featuring wind propulsion are under construction, showcasing the nation’s commitment to maritime sustainability.

The Captain Arctic represents a pivotal step in combining innovation, luxury, and eco-consciousness, setting a new benchmark for sustainable expedition vessels.

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Source: OFFSHORE ENERGY