Hapag-Lloyd’s 4-star expedition cruise ship, ms Bremen, became one of the world's first passenger vessels to receive Polar Ship Certificate that will be mandatory for operating in the polar regions.
After a 2-year long phase of intense preparation, the Polar Code certification has been finally awarded. All of the fleet's other ships are also due to meet the Polar Code requirements by the Arctic season 2018.
The Polar Code (International Code for Ships Operating in Polar Waters), adopted by International Maritime Organisation (IMO), contains regulations that concern the construction and equipment of the ships, as well as training of their crews. Issued by the classification society DNV GL, the certificate confirming compliance with Polar Code will be mandatory for all vessels from January 2018. The Polar Code is due to increase the safety of ships and pay more attention to environmental protection.
In 2017, as part of the routine drydock periods in the shipyard, the Hapag-Lloyd’s cruise ships will also be brought in line with the certificate's criteria in order that they meet the Polar Code's requirements and are able to successfully operate in the regions.
MS Bremen will be operating 3 international voyages during 2018-2019 season, including cruising to the North East Passage in Summer 2018.