Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Building ships at untried shipyards is not a good move!
You would think that if you were a newcomer to the cruise market and were also entering the luxury sector, your choice of shipyard to build your new vessels would be of paramount importance. You would naturally look at shipyards that have a good track record in building quality, luxury vessels; yards with an impressive portfolio. You wouldn’t risk having your new ships built by a shipyard that has never built a cruise ship would you? No, that would be just asking for trouble. Well that’s exactly what newcomer Pearl Seas Cruises did and the company is now paying the price. The US line was so eager to enter the luxury small ship cruise market that it couldn’t wait for newbuilding slots at a tried and tested cruise ship yard; instead it placed a contract for two vessels with a Canadian shipyard which had never built a cruise ship before. The deal didn’t get off to the best of starts, with the first vessel being cancelled. The second vessel was supposed to have been delivered in the first quarter of this year, but deficiencies recently discovered during sea trials, along with quality issues and construction delays have resulted in Pearl Seas having to cancel the vessel’s inaugural summer season. When the Canadian shipyard secured this order a spokesman for the yard, Halifax Shipyard, said: ‘we don’t see a problem in building cruise ships for the first time as we have recently completed a number of vessels for the offshore oil and gas industries which have required extensive accommodation outfitting to a very high standard.’ I wonder what Peter Williams would say now!
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Mein Schiff enters service
The first ship in newly established TUI Cruises fleet, Mein Schiff, has entered service following her ‘fast track’ conversion in Bremerhaven by Lloyd Werft. The former Celebrity Galaxy is the first vessel in a new brand aimed directly at the German market.
Following a short inaugural cruise, the 1,914 passenger capacity Mein Schiff will sail in the Baltic for the 2009 summer season (May through October), offering two to 14-night sailing from ports such as Kiel and Hamburg, Germany, and Palma de Mallorca, Spain. The ship will then reposition to the Caribbean for the winter season (November 2009 through to April 2010), homeporting in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.
During 2010 and 2011 Mein Schiff will sail itineraries in the Nordic Seas, reaching the Faeroe Islands and Iceland, as well as the eastern and western Mediterranean. TUI Cruises is a joint venture between RCCL and TUI AG, the latter being Europe’s leading travel and shipping group. Sphere: Related Content
Following a short inaugural cruise, the 1,914 passenger capacity Mein Schiff will sail in the Baltic for the 2009 summer season (May through October), offering two to 14-night sailing from ports such as Kiel and Hamburg, Germany, and Palma de Mallorca, Spain. The ship will then reposition to the Caribbean for the winter season (November 2009 through to April 2010), homeporting in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.
During 2010 and 2011 Mein Schiff will sail itineraries in the Nordic Seas, reaching the Faeroe Islands and Iceland, as well as the eastern and western Mediterranean. TUI Cruises is a joint venture between RCCL and TUI AG, the latter being Europe’s leading travel and shipping group. Sphere: Related Content
Pearl Seas cancels maiden summer season
Newly established US cruise line Pearl Seas Cruises, a subsidiary of American Cruise Line, has had to cancel the maiden summer cruise season of its newbuild ship Pearl Mist due to technical issues. The 214 passenger capacity vessel was to have been delivered from Canada’s Halifax Shipyard (a member of Irving Shipbuilding) in the first quarter of this year. However, due to technical deficiencies recently discovered on sea trials, along with quality issues and construction delays, it looks like Pearl Mist won’t enter service until towards the end of this year.
The cancelled cruises involve seven, 10, 11 and 14-night voyages to the Canadian Maritimes, Atlantic Canada and the Great Lakes. Pearl Seas hopes to have Pearl Mist in service in time for her programmed Caribbean season this winter.
Pearl Mist is the second of two small cruise ships ordered from Irving Shipbuilding by this US operator. However, the first vessel was cancelled last year. Pearl Mist is a luxury all-suite vessel offering 108 suites ranging in size from 320 to 640 sq ft, six lounges and a sport deck over six decks. She is the first cruise ship to be built by Halifax Shipyards. Sphere: Related Content
The cancelled cruises involve seven, 10, 11 and 14-night voyages to the Canadian Maritimes, Atlantic Canada and the Great Lakes. Pearl Seas hopes to have Pearl Mist in service in time for her programmed Caribbean season this winter.
Pearl Mist is the second of two small cruise ships ordered from Irving Shipbuilding by this US operator. However, the first vessel was cancelled last year. Pearl Mist is a luxury all-suite vessel offering 108 suites ranging in size from 320 to 640 sq ft, six lounges and a sport deck over six decks. She is the first cruise ship to be built by Halifax Shipyards. Sphere: Related Content
Celebrity Millennium completes docking period
Celebrity Cruises is rolling out a series of new design schemes onboard Celebrity Millennium during the vessel’s US $10m makeover just completed in Victoria, British Columbia.
Celebrity Millennium has emerged from her 12-day scheduled drydocking at Victoria Shipyards with new carpeting throughout the entire ship, and new upholstery in every cabin, the Lido Deck, the Celebrity Theatre and the main dining room.
All marble and stone floors and counter areas have been renewed, and all wood hand rails on the ship’s verandas and pool deck areas have been newly varnished. New Boldit – an alternative to traditional teak decking – has been installed across the pool deck, outdoor stage, dance floor and jogging track. Every suite is now equipped with 32-inch LED flat-panel TVs, while every Concierge Class cabins boasts 26-inch versions. By October this year new upholstery will be added to furnishings in the ship’s retail areas, the Grand Foyer, and every lounge.
Sphere: Related ContentScotland-Belgium ferry link resumes
Last week the ferry link between the Scottish port of Rosyth and Zeebrugge, Belgium resumed when Norfolkline started sailings with the 2,200 lane metre Scottish Viking.
The new vessel, built by Italy’s Visentini shipyard, will operate three sailings each way per week. Norfolkline took over the route from Greece’s SuperFast Ferries, which pulled out last year, citing high fuel costs.
The new vessel, built by Italy’s Visentini shipyard, will operate three sailings each way per week. Norfolkline took over the route from Greece’s SuperFast Ferries, which pulled out last year, citing high fuel costs.
Scottish First Minister Alex Salmond was in Rosyth to see the maiden arrival of Scottish Viking and described the relaunched service as ‘hugely important for Scotland’s economy.’ He said that €2m in funding through a waterborne freight grant would support the service. ‘Maintaining connections with major European markets is vital for Scotland at a time of global economic challenges. Not only will Scottish Viking allow access to important commercial contacts, it will be a boost for the local economy in Fife,’ said Mr. Salmond.
Sphere: Related ContentNorway-Denmark fast ferry service axed
Norway’s Fjord Line will not be operating its high speed ferry service between the Norwegian port of Kristiansand and Hirtshals in Denmark this summer due to its ongoing dispute with the southern Norwegian port. The port of Kristiansand had demanded that the service, operated by the fast ferry HSC Fjord Cat, should be year-round. Fjord Line pointed out that the fast ferry could not handle the tough winter weather across the Skagerrak, nor could it compete with fellow Norwegian operator Color Line, which introduced the second of two new larger vessels on the same route last year.
A ruling by the Norwegian coastal administration overturned the port’s decision, allowing Fjord Line to use the port’s facilities this summer. However, the port said it would be the summer only, prior to reviewing its decision the passing the matter to the Norwegian Ministry of Fishing and Coastal Affairs. Fjord Line has accused the port of Kristiansand of stifling competition for Color Line, which has a dominant presence at the port. Sphere: Related Content
A ruling by the Norwegian coastal administration overturned the port’s decision, allowing Fjord Line to use the port’s facilities this summer. However, the port said it would be the summer only, prior to reviewing its decision the passing the matter to the Norwegian Ministry of Fishing and Coastal Affairs. Fjord Line has accused the port of Kristiansand of stifling competition for Color Line, which has a dominant presence at the port. Sphere: Related Content
Norman Arrow beats the pirates!
French cross-channel ferry operator LD line’s new fast ferry for its Dover-Boulogne service, Norman Arrow, is due to arrive in the UK port of Dover this week, after successfully transiting the pirate infested waters off Somalia, on its long delivery voyage from the Incat shipyard in Tasmania.
A combination of the 112m wave-piercing catamaran’s high speed and precession manoeuvrability was always going to be in the ferry’s favour in the event of an attack. Nonetheless, being fully aware of recent piracy incidents in the region, the officers and crew onboard Norman Arrow were well prepared for the unlikely event of a boarding attempt by pirates.
One of the two Masters onboard, Capt Guy South comments; ‘We locked every door and padlocked all the void spaces and access to the cabin was restricted to the port aft door only. We also posted an extra lookout aft throughout the high risk area.
‘The Norman Arrow’s speed was increased from economic delivery running to 30 knots for the most dangerous section and we also secured the mooring decks aft with as much rope as we had spare.
‘If we were attacked the plan was that all the crew would go to the electronics rooms, the fourth engine would be run up and we’d run away. All small boats were given a wide berth and we also followed the Recommended Transport corridor reporting to the warships as we went along.
‘We didn’t see any pirates but there was a ship attacked with Rocket Propelled Grenades about four hours ahead of us along our route. We also saw about half a dozen warships from various nations,’ Capt South said.
After transiting the Suez Canal last week, Norman Arrow called at Valetta, Malta for bunkering, before sailing directly to Dover, were she is due to arrive on 26 May. When she enters service between Dover and Boulogne in June, Norman Arrow will be the first ever freight carrying high speed vessel to operate across the Dover Strait. Sphere: Related Content
A combination of the 112m wave-piercing catamaran’s high speed and precession manoeuvrability was always going to be in the ferry’s favour in the event of an attack. Nonetheless, being fully aware of recent piracy incidents in the region, the officers and crew onboard Norman Arrow were well prepared for the unlikely event of a boarding attempt by pirates.
One of the two Masters onboard, Capt Guy South comments; ‘We locked every door and padlocked all the void spaces and access to the cabin was restricted to the port aft door only. We also posted an extra lookout aft throughout the high risk area.
‘The Norman Arrow’s speed was increased from economic delivery running to 30 knots for the most dangerous section and we also secured the mooring decks aft with as much rope as we had spare.
‘If we were attacked the plan was that all the crew would go to the electronics rooms, the fourth engine would be run up and we’d run away. All small boats were given a wide berth and we also followed the Recommended Transport corridor reporting to the warships as we went along.
‘We didn’t see any pirates but there was a ship attacked with Rocket Propelled Grenades about four hours ahead of us along our route. We also saw about half a dozen warships from various nations,’ Capt South said.
After transiting the Suez Canal last week, Norman Arrow called at Valetta, Malta for bunkering, before sailing directly to Dover, were she is due to arrive on 26 May. When she enters service between Dover and Boulogne in June, Norman Arrow will be the first ever freight carrying high speed vessel to operate across the Dover Strait. Sphere: Related Content
Coast Guard Searching for Missing Cruise Passenger
The U.S. Coast Guard announced it is searching for an 18-year-old cruise ship passenger who possibly went overboard at about 9:45 p.m., Sunday, about 150 miles southwest of Tampa, Florida. At about 10 p.m. Sunday the teen was reported missing to the Coast Guard by the cruise ship Carnival Fantasy.
Sphere: Related ContentNigerian Militants Destroy Oil Pipelines
The Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) claimed on Sunday (5/24) that it has destroyed several pipelines leading to a Chevron crude oil storage facility in the Niger Delta.
From Reuters:
From Reuters:
"[MEND] said in an email it had sabotaged pipelines to flow stations at Alero Creek, Otunana, Abiteye, Makaraba and Dibi feeding a Chevron facility in Delta state."
Sphere: Related ContentWednesday, May 20, 2009
Leading UK operators drop Antarctica from their programmes
We have been asked by Swan Hellenic to correct the story ‘Leading UK operators drop Antarctica from their programmes’ in ‘Off Radar’ Issue No. 147. In the story we said that Swan Hellenic would be dropping Antarctica from their schedules in 2009/2010. This should have said ‘for the 2010-2011 season.’ Colin Stone, managing director of Swan Hellenic said: ‘costs are a consideration, as is the time that it takes to get down to the Antarctic. However, the main reason why the Swan Hellenic cruise schedule is changing for 2010/11 is that our loyal passengers are keen to travel to warmer climates in the winter months.’
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Monday, May 18, 2009
More gloom for Antarctic cruises
Following the recent decision by those countries signatory to the Antarctic Treaty to ban cruise ships carrying more than 500 passengers entering the waters of Antarctica and limiting the number of passengers ashore at any one time to just 100, comes further bad news for cruise lines with the region on their schedules. There is currently a new proposal to ban cruise ships sailing in Antarctic waters from carrying and burning heavy fuel oil in their main and auxiliary diesel engines. This would mean that the ships would have to burn the more expensive marine diesel or marine gas oil, thereby increasing their operating costs significantly. A number of operators have decided to drop Antarctic cruise scheduled from the end of this year due to this looming problem, which is expected to be brought in under MARPOL regulations from 2011, and other larger operators are expected to follow!
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Noble Caledonia charters Prince Albert II
Special UK cruise operator Noble Caledonia has chartered one of the world’s most luxurious expedition-type cruise ships for a voyage around Britain and Ireland. The Silversea’s owned 130 passenger capacity Prince Albert II sailed from the south coast UK port of Portsmouth on 17 May on an 11-night cruise to Leith, with calls at Alderney & Guernsey, Tresco, Waterford & Kilkenny, Dublin, Gigha & Islay, Iona & Staffa, St Kilda, Inverewe Gardens, Orkney and Aberdeen.
This is the first time that Noble Caledonia has chartered Prince Albert II, which was formerly Society Expeditions’ World Discoverer, before being converted in Italy for use by Silversea as its first expedition cruise vessel. Sphere: Related Content
This is the first time that Noble Caledonia has chartered Prince Albert II, which was formerly Society Expeditions’ World Discoverer, before being converted in Italy for use by Silversea as its first expedition cruise vessel. Sphere: Related Content
Venezuelan operator buys Fred Olsen’s Black Prince
One of the oldest cruise ships still in service, Fred Olsen Cruise Line’s Black Prince, has been saved from the breaker yard following the vessel’s purchase by Venezuelan operator Servicios Acuaticos de Venezuela (SAVECA). The vessel is expected to be used for cruises along Venezuela’s Caribbean coast.
Black Prince, which started operations for Fred Olsen in October 1966 as a combined cruise ship/ferry, running between the UK and the Canary Islands and the UK and Norway, was expected to have been scrapped at the end of 2009 as she is not SOLAS 2010 compliant. However, as her new owners intend to use her for coastal, and not international voyages, she can remain in service. Black Prince will transfer to her new owner’s following her final cruise from Southampton on 16 October this year. Sphere: Related Content
Black Prince, which started operations for Fred Olsen in October 1966 as a combined cruise ship/ferry, running between the UK and the Canary Islands and the UK and Norway, was expected to have been scrapped at the end of 2009 as she is not SOLAS 2010 compliant. However, as her new owners intend to use her for coastal, and not international voyages, she can remain in service. Black Prince will transfer to her new owner’s following her final cruise from Southampton on 16 October this year. Sphere: Related Content
Elegant Cruises in troubled waters
Small US-based expedition cruise line Elegant Cruises seems to be in serious trouble following the arrest of one of its two vessels, the 1960-built 106 passenger capacity Andrea, in Split, Croatia. The Long Island-based operator also operates the 1970-built Monet. Both vessels operate in Antarctica and the Adriatic during the year, but reports from crew members aboard Andrea, the former Hurtigruten ferry Harald Jarl, report of serious safety issues with regard to the vessel, including fire doors wedged permanently open with wooden blocks, just one spare propeller for the vessel’s fleet of six Zodiacs and lifeboats nailed to the davits to prevent them swinging in the high seas of the Antarctic.
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Brilliance of the Seas to return to Dubai for second consecutive season
RCI has announced that its Brilliance of the Seas is to return to the Arabian Gulf for a second consecutive season in 2011, operating nine roundtrip sailings from Dubai from January through to March. The seven night cruises will visit some of the Gulf’s most intriguing destinations, with an overnight stay in Dubai at the beginning and end of each cruise. New for 2011 are sailings from Dubai also taking in the Indian destinations of Goa and Mumbai.
Passengers can also choose a four-night shore-based Arabian Explorer extension for an 11 night Arabian adventure, which will offer a more thorough exploration of Dubai and the other emirates of Ras al Khaimah and Fujairah.
The seven night cruise aboard Brilliance of the Seas will include calls at Fujairah and Abu Dhabi, in the United Arab Emirates; the Kingdom of Bahrain; and Oman’s capital Muscat. New for the 2011 season are two 12-night Dubai and India roundtrip sailings, departing on 28 March and 9 April, which will include the ship’s maiden port calls at India’s Mumbai, Goa and Cochin.
Shore excursions for 2010 and 2011 itineraries, meanwhile, will provide equal doses of adventure and culture. In Dubai, passengers can opt for four-wheel drive excursions into the desert, ride Arabian horses at Bahrain’s royal Endurance village, snorkel under the Indian Ocean waters in Fujairah, revel in High Tea at an Abu Dhabi palace; and discover Muscat’s Souk, Sultan’s palace and Portuguese forts.
Passengers can also choose the 14 or 16-night repositioning itineraries between Barcelona and Dubai. The 14-night cruise, departing 10 January 2011from Barcelona will include a Suez Canal transit and calls at the Egyptian ports of Alexandria and Safaga, and Jordan’s Aqaba. The 16-night cruise, leaving Dubai on 21 April 2011, will visit three Egyptian ports – Safaga, Sharm el Sheikh and Alexandria – as well as Muscat and Aqaba. Sphere: Related Content
Passengers can also choose a four-night shore-based Arabian Explorer extension for an 11 night Arabian adventure, which will offer a more thorough exploration of Dubai and the other emirates of Ras al Khaimah and Fujairah.
The seven night cruise aboard Brilliance of the Seas will include calls at Fujairah and Abu Dhabi, in the United Arab Emirates; the Kingdom of Bahrain; and Oman’s capital Muscat. New for the 2011 season are two 12-night Dubai and India roundtrip sailings, departing on 28 March and 9 April, which will include the ship’s maiden port calls at India’s Mumbai, Goa and Cochin.
Shore excursions for 2010 and 2011 itineraries, meanwhile, will provide equal doses of adventure and culture. In Dubai, passengers can opt for four-wheel drive excursions into the desert, ride Arabian horses at Bahrain’s royal Endurance village, snorkel under the Indian Ocean waters in Fujairah, revel in High Tea at an Abu Dhabi palace; and discover Muscat’s Souk, Sultan’s palace and Portuguese forts.
Passengers can also choose the 14 or 16-night repositioning itineraries between Barcelona and Dubai. The 14-night cruise, departing 10 January 2011from Barcelona will include a Suez Canal transit and calls at the Egyptian ports of Alexandria and Safaga, and Jordan’s Aqaba. The 16-night cruise, leaving Dubai on 21 April 2011, will visit three Egyptian ports – Safaga, Sharm el Sheikh and Alexandria – as well as Muscat and Aqaba. Sphere: Related Content
All Leisure Group buys Hebridean Princess
UK's All Leisure Holidays (part of the All Leisure Group) involving shareholder and former P & O Chairman Lord Stirling, has bought the British small, luxury cruise vessel Hebridean Princess for £1.4m and is to resurrect the name Hebridean Island Cruises. Hebridean Princess was acquired from administrator Ernst & Young following the entering into receivership of Hebridean International earlier this year.
Hebridean Princess will continue to operate her advertised schedule featuring the UK and west coast Scotland cruises for 2009.
Interestingly, the All Leisure Group also owns the two British cruise lines Voyages of Discovery and Swan Hellenic. Sphere: Related Content
Hebridean Princess will continue to operate her advertised schedule featuring the UK and west coast Scotland cruises for 2009.
Interestingly, the All Leisure Group also owns the two British cruise lines Voyages of Discovery and Swan Hellenic. Sphere: Related Content
Celebrity to visit 30 ports in 11 different countries in 11th South America season
Celebrity Cruises winter 2010/2011 Panama Canal and South America cruises, the lines 11th season in the region, will include visits to 13 countries via stops at 30 ports. Accompanying the cruises are a variety of in-port shore excursions and escorted land-based tour programmes that can be combined with a cruise.
24 September 2009 will see Celebrity Infinity begin her Panama Canal/South America season with an 16-night repositioning cruise from Seattle to Fort Lauderdale, via the Panama Canal. She will then undertake four 14-night Panama Canal cruises between Fort Lauderdale and Los Angeles.
The Panama Canal cruises during the 2010/2011 season also include two 14-night South America and Canal cruises, two 14-night Canal cruises between Fort Lauderdale and San Diego, and a 16-night repositioning cruise back to Seattle on 24 April.
Between the Panama Canal portions of the season, Celebrity Infinity will sail six 14-night cruises throughout South America between mid-December 2010 and February 2011, including sailing around Cape Horn, through the Straits of Magellan, between Buenos Aires, Argentina and Valparaiso, Chile, most of which include an in-port overnight stay in Buenos Aires.
For the second consecutive year there will also be two roundtrip Antarctica cruises from Buenos Aires, which include a visit to the capital of the Falkland Islands, Port Stanley, as well as panoramic cruising by Elephant Island, Paradise Bay and Gerlache Strait in Antarctica.
In-port excursions available include:
• The ‘Petrohue Falls and the Chilean Lake District’ excursion from Puerto Montt, which includes a tour of the city along with a drive to Todos Los Santos Lake for view of the Osomo Volcano, and a walk along the Petrohue River to view the falls
• Chile’s Punta Arenas is the site of the ‘Magdalena Island Natural Penguin Reserve’ excursion, where passengers can visit one of the largest Magellan penguin colonies in southern Chile
• In Buenos Aires, the ‘Tango Show and Dinner’ features a visit to a tango house for dinner followed by a live tango show
• In Montevideo, ‘Day at the Estancia’ takes passengers to Estancia La Rabida, where they can experience the daily life of a Uruguayan gaucho and learn about the agriculture, horse breeding, cattle raising and other activities at the ranch
Select itineraries offer a ‘Cuzco and Machu Picchu Adventure,’ a three-day, two-night overland tour encompassing the city of Cuzco, Peru, and its famed archaeological relics as well as a day at Machu Picchu, the ‘Lost City of the Incas.’ Sphere: Related Content
24 September 2009 will see Celebrity Infinity begin her Panama Canal/South America season with an 16-night repositioning cruise from Seattle to Fort Lauderdale, via the Panama Canal. She will then undertake four 14-night Panama Canal cruises between Fort Lauderdale and Los Angeles.
The Panama Canal cruises during the 2010/2011 season also include two 14-night South America and Canal cruises, two 14-night Canal cruises between Fort Lauderdale and San Diego, and a 16-night repositioning cruise back to Seattle on 24 April.
Between the Panama Canal portions of the season, Celebrity Infinity will sail six 14-night cruises throughout South America between mid-December 2010 and February 2011, including sailing around Cape Horn, through the Straits of Magellan, between Buenos Aires, Argentina and Valparaiso, Chile, most of which include an in-port overnight stay in Buenos Aires.
For the second consecutive year there will also be two roundtrip Antarctica cruises from Buenos Aires, which include a visit to the capital of the Falkland Islands, Port Stanley, as well as panoramic cruising by Elephant Island, Paradise Bay and Gerlache Strait in Antarctica.
In-port excursions available include:
• The ‘Petrohue Falls and the Chilean Lake District’ excursion from Puerto Montt, which includes a tour of the city along with a drive to Todos Los Santos Lake for view of the Osomo Volcano, and a walk along the Petrohue River to view the falls
• Chile’s Punta Arenas is the site of the ‘Magdalena Island Natural Penguin Reserve’ excursion, where passengers can visit one of the largest Magellan penguin colonies in southern Chile
• In Buenos Aires, the ‘Tango Show and Dinner’ features a visit to a tango house for dinner followed by a live tango show
• In Montevideo, ‘Day at the Estancia’ takes passengers to Estancia La Rabida, where they can experience the daily life of a Uruguayan gaucho and learn about the agriculture, horse breeding, cattle raising and other activities at the ranch
Select itineraries offer a ‘Cuzco and Machu Picchu Adventure,’ a three-day, two-night overland tour encompassing the city of Cuzco, Peru, and its famed archaeological relics as well as a day at Machu Picchu, the ‘Lost City of the Incas.’ Sphere: Related Content
MSC Cruises in maiden New York call
MSC Cruises’ made its maiden call last week at one of the world’s greatest port cities, New York, when MSC Orchestra called prior to a repositioning voyage to Copenhagen for the start of her European summer season.
MSC Cruises will start a programme of roundtrip cruises between New York and Quebec City in the autumn of 2010 using the company’s brand new MSC Magnifica, currently fitting out at the Saint Nazaire yard of STX France Cruise. The first cruise sails from Manhattan’s new Cruise Terminal on 22 September 2010. Sphere: Related Content
MSC Cruises will start a programme of roundtrip cruises between New York and Quebec City in the autumn of 2010 using the company’s brand new MSC Magnifica, currently fitting out at the Saint Nazaire yard of STX France Cruise. The first cruise sails from Manhattan’s new Cruise Terminal on 22 September 2010. Sphere: Related Content
Where’s Euroferries?
The end of March start of Euroferries new Ramsgate (UK) – Boulogne (France) fast ferry service using Fred Olsen’s Incat wave-piercing catamaran Bonanza Express failed to materialise,
Euroferries says that the start-up of the new service is ‘imminent’, and that some minor modifications to the fast ferry and port facilities in the UK and France are being undertaken. However, Bonanza Express still remains in the Canary Islands and it’s strange to hear from the Port of Boulogne that they still have to sit down with the operator and agree details of the new service. Alain Rousseau, port director at Boulogne said: ‘we have been hearing about this new cross-channel service by the company for a number of years but nothing new. Yes, it is a bit of a mystery.’ Sphere: Related Content
Euroferries says that the start-up of the new service is ‘imminent’, and that some minor modifications to the fast ferry and port facilities in the UK and France are being undertaken. However, Bonanza Express still remains in the Canary Islands and it’s strange to hear from the Port of Boulogne that they still have to sit down with the operator and agree details of the new service. Alain Rousseau, port director at Boulogne said: ‘we have been hearing about this new cross-channel service by the company for a number of years but nothing new. Yes, it is a bit of a mystery.’ Sphere: Related Content
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Photos of Hudson River Airplane Salvage
United States — Wired.com has an article about the interesting story of photographer Stephen Mallon, the man tapped to photograph the Hudson River salvage of US Air Flight 1549. There are also some impressive photographs accompanying the piece.
Nigerian Military Frees Some of Captured Sailors
Nigeria — It is being reported that the Nigerian military claims it has freed 10 crewmembers of the oil tanker MV Spirit, which was hijacked by Niger Delta militants on Wednesday (5/13). It is not clear what happened to the other sailors on board or the vessel. Originally there were thought to be 15 crewmembers on the ship.
Friday, May 15, 2009
Militants Threaten All Out Conflict in Niger Delta
The Movement for the Emancipation of Niger Delta (MEND) on Wednesday issued an ultimatium to oil companies to either evacuate all their workers or face an onslaught of attacks against not just oil ships and installations, but also against airplanes and helicopters. On Thursday (5/14) MEND extended the deadline by 48-hours.
Sphere: Related ContentCoast Guard Responds to Capsized Migrant Boat
About mid-day Wednesday (5/13) the U.S. Coast Guard received a call about a number of people in the water about 15 miles off the coast of Boynton Beach, Florida. It turned out that a boat carrying migrants, mostly Haitian, had capsized. A rescue operation was launched and 17 people were rescued, however, at least 10 others are dead.
Sphere: Related ContentThursday, May 14, 2009
Top Tips for working on board Cruise Ships
By Guest writer Bomi H. Patell, CEO of Bompat Recruiters Pvt Ltd
Luxury passenger vessels have always held a kind of fascination in the minds of the young and the old alike. Many people dream of taking a world cruise and others like me, dreamt of working onboard!
With the current scale of expansion of new vessels with ultra modern facilities, ease with which newer Cruise Line Companies are being formulated the world over, the opportunity to work on board is HUGE compared to the 1960's or 1970's!
The world is however awash with information overload and with so many search engines available to source information, much of the content leads to a dead end or a train of costs. So how does one successfully prepare to fulfill that dream of working on board? What is the best advice that you can follow?
If you are a professional with a specific trade your task is easier, as you already know which position you should target to work on board a Cruise Ship. If not, identify you your area of specialization that compliments your skills and experience, then work towards development by looking at the following areas…
1. English is a highly important requirement. If you are weak in the language develop it, if you are strong, fortify it.
2. Learn a Foreign Language. At least the basics! Google is a good place to get your translation instantly. Listen to the radio or a music video. On board the ships, Spanish is the second most important language you are likely come across. Italian and German are also important.
3. Attend a Sea-faring course called STCW 95 and PSF, which are an absolute requirement to have in advance for many Cruise Lines. These courses are available in all major cities of India and the same is true on a global scale. Some of them are approved by the Ministry of Surface Transportation, these should be your choice of completing your courses.
4. Once you have the above courses, the next step is to apply for a Seaman Book or CDC (Continuous Discharge Certificate). Home CDS's are preferable, but you could get one with a Bahamas, Panamanian or Marshal Islands. Again addresses and procedures can be found on search engines, to apply for one.
5. Physical fitness is very important. Get into shape. The work is intense and always under a pressurized and confined space environment. Your human body and mind will adapt to this, however you need to simulate the experience wherever possible, get fit and work in confided spaces. You will enjoy the sites, sounds and fragrances of the most beautiful places you'd visit all over the world and that part is for free!
6. Remember whatever or wherever you you worked before, the job at sea has its own set of Rules. Find out about them in advance, so you know what you are getting into. Do not take them lightly and follow them; this way you will be a prepared happy person. Over the years the management of Cruise Ships have figured out how things should be done, so the system is fail proof, hence all you need do is trust and follow it!
7. Complete adherence to Safety procedures is a must. Remember each crew member on board is responsible for not only himself but a set of passengers too. In an emergency the crew member is the one who will guide passengers to safety or keep them away from harm.
8. Discipline at sea is a key factor that must be developed. Self-discipline is a crucial factor for success at sea. Remember, a passenger liner at times can be considered a kind of glorified prison. You have everything that could spoil you, hence your self -discipline levels will be called into effect every step of the way during your life at sea.
Work on board, see the world, develop yourself to be a person of empathy and educate your family about the far out places that they too, have been dreaming off!
Bomi H. Patell
CEO
Bompat Recruiters Pvt Ltd
BRJ Mehmood Chinoy Complex,
404, 4th Floor,
Parklane,
Secunderabad - 500003 (A.P) India.
Tel : 91 40 27721547 / 40021547
Mobile : 91 98480 45299
Email: bompat@satyam.net.in Sphere: Related Content
Luxury passenger vessels have always held a kind of fascination in the minds of the young and the old alike. Many people dream of taking a world cruise and others like me, dreamt of working onboard!
With the current scale of expansion of new vessels with ultra modern facilities, ease with which newer Cruise Line Companies are being formulated the world over, the opportunity to work on board is HUGE compared to the 1960's or 1970's!
The world is however awash with information overload and with so many search engines available to source information, much of the content leads to a dead end or a train of costs. So how does one successfully prepare to fulfill that dream of working on board? What is the best advice that you can follow?
If you are a professional with a specific trade your task is easier, as you already know which position you should target to work on board a Cruise Ship. If not, identify you your area of specialization that compliments your skills and experience, then work towards development by looking at the following areas…
1. English is a highly important requirement. If you are weak in the language develop it, if you are strong, fortify it.
2. Learn a Foreign Language. At least the basics! Google is a good place to get your translation instantly. Listen to the radio or a music video. On board the ships, Spanish is the second most important language you are likely come across. Italian and German are also important.
3. Attend a Sea-faring course called STCW 95 and PSF, which are an absolute requirement to have in advance for many Cruise Lines. These courses are available in all major cities of India and the same is true on a global scale. Some of them are approved by the Ministry of Surface Transportation, these should be your choice of completing your courses.
4. Once you have the above courses, the next step is to apply for a Seaman Book or CDC (Continuous Discharge Certificate). Home CDS's are preferable, but you could get one with a Bahamas, Panamanian or Marshal Islands. Again addresses and procedures can be found on search engines, to apply for one.
5. Physical fitness is very important. Get into shape. The work is intense and always under a pressurized and confined space environment. Your human body and mind will adapt to this, however you need to simulate the experience wherever possible, get fit and work in confided spaces. You will enjoy the sites, sounds and fragrances of the most beautiful places you'd visit all over the world and that part is for free!
6. Remember whatever or wherever you you worked before, the job at sea has its own set of Rules. Find out about them in advance, so you know what you are getting into. Do not take them lightly and follow them; this way you will be a prepared happy person. Over the years the management of Cruise Ships have figured out how things should be done, so the system is fail proof, hence all you need do is trust and follow it!
7. Complete adherence to Safety procedures is a must. Remember each crew member on board is responsible for not only himself but a set of passengers too. In an emergency the crew member is the one who will guide passengers to safety or keep them away from harm.
8. Discipline at sea is a key factor that must be developed. Self-discipline is a crucial factor for success at sea. Remember, a passenger liner at times can be considered a kind of glorified prison. You have everything that could spoil you, hence your self -discipline levels will be called into effect every step of the way during your life at sea.
Work on board, see the world, develop yourself to be a person of empathy and educate your family about the far out places that they too, have been dreaming off!
Bomi H. Patell
CEO
Bompat Recruiters Pvt Ltd
BRJ Mehmood Chinoy Complex,
404, 4th Floor,
Parklane,
Secunderabad - 500003 (A.P) India.
Tel : 91 40 27721547 / 40021547
Mobile : 91 98480 45299
Email: bompat@satyam.net.in Sphere: Related Content
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Port of Oakland Gets Recovery Act Funds for Expansion Project
United States — The Port of Oakland is to receive $11.8 million from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2008, which the port will use to fund its Harbor Deepening Project, as well as harbor operations and maintenance. The fifth busiest U.S. container port began the deepening project in 2001. According to a statement from the port, by the time the project is complete as many as 8,800 jobs will have been created, and annual business revenue will increase by $1.9 billion.
From Oakland Tribune:
"Once done, the port will be able to attract new international business by offering itself as a 24-7 operation able to handle all fully loaded, intermodal cargo vessels bringing imports to the U.S."
Monday, May 11, 2009
Italy Rescues and Then Delivers 200 Asylum Seekers to Libya
Libya — The Italian coast guard rescued three boat loads of African migrants on May 6 after a dispute with Malta over which nation had responsibility for responding to the distress call. Amnesty International issued a statement about its concern that the lives and safety of migrants and asylum seekers have been placed at risk not just by the dispute, but by Italy's decision to take the more than 225 people to Tripoli, Libya.
Sphere: Related ContentBusiness is Good for South Asia's Ship Scrapping Industry
Bangladesh — Germany's Spiegel magazine is taking a look at the booming ship scrapping business in South Asia. The article points out that "nearly 90 percent of the world's shipbreaking happens in India, Pakistan and Bangladesh."
Sphere: Related ContentMozambique Police Claim Dam Sabotage Plot Foiled
Mozambique — There are reports that Mozambique police arrested four foreigners this week who the police allege were plotting to sabotage the Cahora Bassa Dam, one of the largest hydroelectric dams in Africa. The suspects, who are individually from South Africa, Botswana, Germany and Portugal, were caught supposedly putting some type of corrosive substance into the facility's turbines. However, a technical expert at the plant told the Cape Argus that the police version of the story is "idiotic" and the men were caught dumping something into the lake, not the turbines.
Sphere: Related ContentH1N1 Flu Forces U.S. Navy to Cancel Humanitarian Mission
The U.S. Navy has decided not to send the USS Dubuque on a planned humanitarian mission to the South Pacific in June after a crewmember fell ill with the H1N1 virus and about 50 others developed symptoms.
Sphere: Related ContentSaturday, May 9, 2009
Voda llc announces alliance with Harbour Mastery inc
Voda llc announces alliance with Harbour Mastery inc (partners of Progress International) to provide live monitoring-data transmission-data management solution to maritime industry
Saint Petersburg, FL, May 7, 2009 – Voda LLC announced today an alliance with Tampa’s Harbour Mastery, Inc. to integrate Voda’s sensor and wifi network offerings with Harbour Mastery’s i-GreenportsTM and i-SeaportsTM management software. Voda offers a suite of chemical and physical sensor products that enable real-time security and environmental monitoring of seaports. Voda products marketed through the alliance include the Manta underwater mass spectrometer, Trident camera system, Porifera sampler and Polynas wireless network buoy.
“The combination of our sensor network technology with Harbor Mastery’s data presentation and management software creates a complete, affordable package for security, environmental and compliance monitoring for waterways of all sizes” says Voda Chief Executive Officer, David Fries. “Voda’s participation in the alliance is an exciting opportunity for Voda products to expand into port operational activities but additionally exciting is that the Alliance through its team members and complementary technologies offers the industry a truly tailorable, affordable solution for port monitoring that is ready to implement without major investments by port stakeholders in time, research or money.”
"Voda's advanced environmental technology solutions for monitoring and real-time communications fill an important gap in the need for affordable and scalable solutions for ports and marinas of all size" says M. George Walters, President of Harbour Mastery. "The increasing emphasis from the U.S. Coast Guard on small boat security and from EPA for improving water quality in recreation areas around ports and marinas are both served well by Voda. Their web-based capabilities will integrate well with the advances that Harbour Mastery promotes." For more about Harbour Mastery visit www.HarbourMastery.com.
For more information on Voda LLC, its partners and products, visit www.vodallc.com
Saint Petersburg, FL, May 7, 2009 – Voda LLC announced today an alliance with Tampa’s Harbour Mastery, Inc. to integrate Voda’s sensor and wifi network offerings with Harbour Mastery’s i-GreenportsTM and i-SeaportsTM management software. Voda offers a suite of chemical and physical sensor products that enable real-time security and environmental monitoring of seaports. Voda products marketed through the alliance include the Manta underwater mass spectrometer, Trident camera system, Porifera sampler and Polynas wireless network buoy.
“The combination of our sensor network technology with Harbor Mastery’s data presentation and management software creates a complete, affordable package for security, environmental and compliance monitoring for waterways of all sizes” says Voda Chief Executive Officer, David Fries. “Voda’s participation in the alliance is an exciting opportunity for Voda products to expand into port operational activities but additionally exciting is that the Alliance through its team members and complementary technologies offers the industry a truly tailorable, affordable solution for port monitoring that is ready to implement without major investments by port stakeholders in time, research or money.”
"Voda's advanced environmental technology solutions for monitoring and real-time communications fill an important gap in the need for affordable and scalable solutions for ports and marinas of all size" says M. George Walters, President of Harbour Mastery. "The increasing emphasis from the U.S. Coast Guard on small boat security and from EPA for improving water quality in recreation areas around ports and marinas are both served well by Voda. Their web-based capabilities will integrate well with the advances that Harbour Mastery promotes." For more about Harbour Mastery visit www.HarbourMastery.com.
For more information on Voda LLC, its partners and products, visit www.vodallc.com
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
All eyes on Antarctica!
A bit of a chilly flavour to this week’s issue with a number of stories concerning cruise ship operations in Antarctica. Following a number of incidents in the region, new restrictions regarding the number of passengers aboard cruise ships visiting Antarctica and going ashore have just been agreed at a meeting in Baltimore. At the se time a report into the loss of the small expedition cruise vessel Explorer 25 miles south east of Penguin Island in the Bransfield Strait towards the end of 2007 has laid the blame at the feet of the ship’s Master. Meanwhile, the replacement vessel for Explorer has just sailed on her first cruise for G.A.P. Adventures following a major refit in Finland. The Canadian operator claims that Expedition is one of the first polar vessels to be fully 2010 compliant with the new International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators (IAATO) environmental recommendations. Let’s hope that the officers and crew are up to the job!
Sphere: Related ContentNew restrictions for Antarctic cruises
Mandatory rules just agreed by the Governments signatory to the Antarctic Treaty will prohibit cruise ships carrying more than 500 passengers from landing in Antarctica. The treaty Governments meeting in Baltimore, USA, also agreed to restrict the number of passengers that could be ashore at any one time to just 100.
Recent incidents in Antarctica, including the sinking of the small expedition cruise vessel Explorer and the grounding of cruise vessels Lybov Orlova and Nordkapp, have highlighted the potential dangers of cruise tourism to the fragile eco-system in the region.
Recent incidents in Antarctica, including the sinking of the small expedition cruise vessel Explorer and the grounding of cruise vessels Lybov Orlova and Nordkapp, have highlighted the potential dangers of cruise tourism to the fragile eco-system in the region.
Tourism in the Antarctic has doubled every five years over the past decade. In the 2008-2009 summer season more than 38,000 tourists travelled to Antarctica, the vast majority by cruise ships. Figures for the 2009-2010 season are expected to see a further increase to 43,000.
Sphere: Related ContentGAP’s Expedition enters service
Canadian polar cruise specialist G.A.P. Adventure’s latest vessel, the 105m Expedition, entered service last week following a US $15m conversion at the Rauma facility of STX Europe in Finland.
Bought as a replacement for the ill-fated Explorer, which sank in Antarctica in November 2007, Expedition, which meets the requirements of Swedish/Finnish Ice Class 1B, is the former Viking Line ferry Alandsfarjan and sailed from Portsmouth on 1 May on a 13-day ‘Britain & Ireland in Bloom’ cruise, on charter to UK operator Nobel Caledonia.
This is the vessel’s first cruise after a 10-day Azores cruises was cancelled due to main engine problems. The cruise ex-Portsmouth has calls at Alderney & Sark, Herm & Guernsey, St. Michael’s Mount and the Helford River, St. Mary’s & Tresco, Waterford, Bantry Bay, Clifden, Portrush, the Isles of Islay & Gigha, Colonsay & Iona, Siel & Craignure, and Oban where the cruise ends.
The conversion of Expedition in Finland has seen the former 1972-built ferry transformed into a modern polar expedition cruise vessel with accommodation for 120 passengers in triple and double cabins, as well as higher end doubles and suites. Singles are available in all cabin categories and all cabins are outside facing. Onboard facilities include the Polar Bear Pub, Expedition Lounge/Albatros Bar, dining room capable of accommodation all passengers in one sitting, a Barbecue deck, a 360° observation deck and a fitness centre/sauna. Toronto-based G.A.P. says that Expedition is one of the first polar vessels to be fully 2010 compliant with the new International Association of Antarctic Cruise Operators (IAATO) environmental recommendations. Sphere: Related Content
Bought as a replacement for the ill-fated Explorer, which sank in Antarctica in November 2007, Expedition, which meets the requirements of Swedish/Finnish Ice Class 1B, is the former Viking Line ferry Alandsfarjan and sailed from Portsmouth on 1 May on a 13-day ‘Britain & Ireland in Bloom’ cruise, on charter to UK operator Nobel Caledonia.
This is the vessel’s first cruise after a 10-day Azores cruises was cancelled due to main engine problems. The cruise ex-Portsmouth has calls at Alderney & Sark, Herm & Guernsey, St. Michael’s Mount and the Helford River, St. Mary’s & Tresco, Waterford, Bantry Bay, Clifden, Portrush, the Isles of Islay & Gigha, Colonsay & Iona, Siel & Craignure, and Oban where the cruise ends.
The conversion of Expedition in Finland has seen the former 1972-built ferry transformed into a modern polar expedition cruise vessel with accommodation for 120 passengers in triple and double cabins, as well as higher end doubles and suites. Singles are available in all cabin categories and all cabins are outside facing. Onboard facilities include the Polar Bear Pub, Expedition Lounge/Albatros Bar, dining room capable of accommodation all passengers in one sitting, a Barbecue deck, a 360° observation deck and a fitness centre/sauna. Toronto-based G.A.P. says that Expedition is one of the first polar vessels to be fully 2010 compliant with the new International Association of Antarctic Cruise Operators (IAATO) environmental recommendations. Sphere: Related Content
Master of Explorer blamed for Antarctic sinking
A Liberian report into the sinking of the small expedition cruise ship Explorer in the Antarctic in November 2007 has concluded that the primary cause of the accident was a misunderstanding by the Master over the nature of the ice in the area. An investigation by the Liberian Registry, in conjunction with the Chilean Navy, concluded that the Master entered the ice field under the mistaken impression that he was encountering ‘first year’ ice when in fact it was much harder land ice.
The Liberian report said that the Master of Explorer had considerable experience of Baltic waters but that he was ‘unfamiliar’ with the type of ice he had encountered in Antarctic waters. ‘The Master should have altered course to open water and not have entered the ice field during darkness,’ the Liberian Register said. It further stated that once the ship entered the ice field, there was ‘no indication’ that the Master reduced speed as he approached, and made contact, with the wall of ice.
The Liberian Register is to undertake another review to ascertain whether IMO guidelines for vessels operating in the Arctic and Antarctic – and minimum safe manning, float-free and quick release voyage recorder data installation – should be made mandatory.
The report recommends that the vessel’s class society, DNV, revises minimum requirements for deck and shell plating for ice class vessels. The Liberian Register also advises DNV surveyors to ‘review flooding boundaries to determine if vessel systems and components such as sewage systems and down-flooding ducts can compromise the vessel’s watertight boundary in the event of damage or flooding.’
The Liberian administration has been advised to raise the issue of competency training for ice navigation at the IMO. Sphere: Related Content
The Liberian report said that the Master of Explorer had considerable experience of Baltic waters but that he was ‘unfamiliar’ with the type of ice he had encountered in Antarctic waters. ‘The Master should have altered course to open water and not have entered the ice field during darkness,’ the Liberian Register said. It further stated that once the ship entered the ice field, there was ‘no indication’ that the Master reduced speed as he approached, and made contact, with the wall of ice.
The Liberian Register is to undertake another review to ascertain whether IMO guidelines for vessels operating in the Arctic and Antarctic – and minimum safe manning, float-free and quick release voyage recorder data installation – should be made mandatory.
The report recommends that the vessel’s class society, DNV, revises minimum requirements for deck and shell plating for ice class vessels. The Liberian Register also advises DNV surveyors to ‘review flooding boundaries to determine if vessel systems and components such as sewage systems and down-flooding ducts can compromise the vessel’s watertight boundary in the event of damage or flooding.’
The Liberian administration has been advised to raise the issue of competency training for ice navigation at the IMO. Sphere: Related Content
SeaDream is not for sale!
Small luxury operator SeaDream Yacht Club has dismissed rumours that it is up for sale, or for that matter that it is in financial difficulties. Owner Atle Brynestad said that the rumours had come about due to ‘misquotes in the media in Norway.’ ‘SeaDream had a record year in 2008 and SeaDream will also have a very good year in 2009. As of the week of April 20, SeaDream has achieved more than 80% of its year-end revenue goal,’ said Mr. Brynestad.
The past few months have seen a shake-up in the management of SeaDream, which operates SeaDream I and SeaDream II, with Bob Lepisto taking over as president following the resignation of former Cunard boss Larry Pimentel in January this year. Atle Brynestad took over as chief executive at the same time. Sphere: Related Content
The past few months have seen a shake-up in the management of SeaDream, which operates SeaDream I and SeaDream II, with Bob Lepisto taking over as president following the resignation of former Cunard boss Larry Pimentel in January this year. Atle Brynestad took over as chief executive at the same time. Sphere: Related Content
Sunday Eastern and Western Caribbean sailings for Allure of the Seas
Allure of the Seas, sistership to RCI’s Oasis of the Seas, the world’s largest cruise ship, will undertake 42 sailings to the Eastern and Western Caribbean on seven night cruises from Port Everglades every Sunday, beginning 12 December 2010.
The 5,400 passenger capacity Allure of the Seas will depart from Port Everglades and alternate between a seven night Eastern and Western itinerary. Ports of call on the Eastern Caribbean sailings will include Charlotte Amalie, St.Thomas; Philipsburg, St. Maarten, and Nassau, Bahamas. The ship will call at Falmouth, Jamaica; Cozumel, Mexico and Labadee, RCI’s private beach on the northern coast of Haiti, for the Western Caribbean itinerary. Sphere: Related Content
The 5,400 passenger capacity Allure of the Seas will depart from Port Everglades and alternate between a seven night Eastern and Western itinerary. Ports of call on the Eastern Caribbean sailings will include Charlotte Amalie, St.Thomas; Philipsburg, St. Maarten, and Nassau, Bahamas. The ship will call at Falmouth, Jamaica; Cozumel, Mexico and Labadee, RCI’s private beach on the northern coast of Haiti, for the Western Caribbean itinerary. Sphere: Related Content
Azamara unveils 2010-2011 itineraries for Asia and the Caribbean
The 2010-2011 season for Azamara Cruises is now on sale offering the chance to visit a sanctuary for endangered scarlet macaws in Puntarenas, Costa Rica; go snorkelling with sea lions in La Paz, Mexico; or go behind the scenes at the Tsingdao Brewery in Qingdao, China.
The 694 passenger capacity Azamara Quest returns to the Far East for the third consecutive year in 2010, while sistership Azamara Journey will offer a series of both favourite and new winter Caribbean itineraries. This includes the first time a ship of the RCCL family has sailed in the Sea of Cortez (Gulf of California) and Azamara Journey calls at ports such as Mazatlan, Guaymas and La Paz in Mexico. Sphere: Related Content
The 694 passenger capacity Azamara Quest returns to the Far East for the third consecutive year in 2010, while sistership Azamara Journey will offer a series of both favourite and new winter Caribbean itineraries. This includes the first time a ship of the RCCL family has sailed in the Sea of Cortez (Gulf of California) and Azamara Journey calls at ports such as Mazatlan, Guaymas and La Paz in Mexico. Sphere: Related Content
No sell off for QE2 says Nakheel!
Dubai-based Nakheel, owners of arguably the world’s most famous passenger ship, QE2, are continuing to deny rumours that the iconic ship is up for sale.
Having bought the vessel from Cunard for US $50m and then announced that the vessel would undergo a multi-million $ conversion into a floating hotel, conference centre and leisure area, Nakheel has been very much slow in coming forward with details about the conversion work to be undertaken aboard QE2. The company, part of Dubai World, says that maintenance and repair work is currently underway and full timelines for restoration work will be completed by mid-2009 following comprehensive surveys. In the meantime Nakheel is looking to open the vessel to the public ‘as is’ for a short period before conversion work starts.
However, reports coming out of Dubai suggest that Nakheel is in serious trouble. With property prices in Dubai plunging 41% in the first quarter of 2009, Nakheel is reported to be discussing ‘all options’ for a change in terms on a US $3.5bn bond coming due this year. Sphere: Related Content
Having bought the vessel from Cunard for US $50m and then announced that the vessel would undergo a multi-million $ conversion into a floating hotel, conference centre and leisure area, Nakheel has been very much slow in coming forward with details about the conversion work to be undertaken aboard QE2. The company, part of Dubai World, says that maintenance and repair work is currently underway and full timelines for restoration work will be completed by mid-2009 following comprehensive surveys. In the meantime Nakheel is looking to open the vessel to the public ‘as is’ for a short period before conversion work starts.
However, reports coming out of Dubai suggest that Nakheel is in serious trouble. With property prices in Dubai plunging 41% in the first quarter of 2009, Nakheel is reported to be discussing ‘all options’ for a change in terms on a US $3.5bn bond coming due this year. Sphere: Related Content
Unique hull coating improves QM2’s performance
Cunard’s decision to recently coat the underwater hull of QM2 with the fluoropolymer foul release coating Intersleek 900 has paid off. During the vessel’s recent drydocking in Hamburg, 6,000m2 of the underwater hull of QM2 was blasted and coated with International Paint’s Intersleek 900; the vessel having being previously been coated with a self polishing copolymer (SPC) antifouling. The decision to switch to Intersleek 900 was part of Cunard’s strategic initiative to reduce fuel usage, cost and associated CO2 emissions whilst maintaining operational schedules.
Commenting on the selection of Intersleek 900, David Strawford, Head of Technical Services, Carnival UK said: ‘To date, performance results have been very positive. The vessel is achieving operational speed whilst utilising less power than was previously the case. A significant improvement compared to the previous SPC system.’
Carnival has coated more cruise vessels with International Paint’s Intersleek system than any other passenger vessel operator. Their first vessel to be coated was P&O cruises’ Oriana in 1999 with the silicone-based foul release system Intersleek 700. Since then 20 other Carnival cruise ships have subsequently been coated.
Following the introduction of Intersleek 900 in 2007, the company is currently upgrading existing silicone coated vessels to advanced fluropolymer technology. Smoother, tougher and with better foul release capabilities than its silicone-based predecessor, Intersleek 900 was most recently applied on P&O Cruises’ Arcadia and has been specified on the four AIDA Cruises newbuildings currently under construction at Germany’s Meyer Werft. Sphere: Related Content
Commenting on the selection of Intersleek 900, David Strawford, Head of Technical Services, Carnival UK said: ‘To date, performance results have been very positive. The vessel is achieving operational speed whilst utilising less power than was previously the case. A significant improvement compared to the previous SPC system.’
Carnival has coated more cruise vessels with International Paint’s Intersleek system than any other passenger vessel operator. Their first vessel to be coated was P&O cruises’ Oriana in 1999 with the silicone-based foul release system Intersleek 700. Since then 20 other Carnival cruise ships have subsequently been coated.
Following the introduction of Intersleek 900 in 2007, the company is currently upgrading existing silicone coated vessels to advanced fluropolymer technology. Smoother, tougher and with better foul release capabilities than its silicone-based predecessor, Intersleek 900 was most recently applied on P&O Cruises’ Arcadia and has been specified on the four AIDA Cruises newbuildings currently under construction at Germany’s Meyer Werft. Sphere: Related Content
Wightlink takes delivery of Wight Ryder I
UK cross-Solent ferry operator Wightlink has technically accepted the first of two new catamaran passenger ferries building at the FBMA Marine shipyard in Cebu, Philippines, Wight Ryder I, with sistership Wight Ryder II being launched last week.
Both 40m, 260 passenger capacity vessels have been designed specifically for Wightlink’s passenger-only service linking Portsmouth Harbour railway station with Ryde on the Isle of Wight.
The highly-efficient BMT NGA design, which reduces average fuel consumption by over 45%, has an operating speed of 22 knots and a maximum speed of 25 knots. Both Philippine newbuildings will replace Wightlink’s ageing FastCats on the Portsmouth-Ryde route.
LD Lines to introduce 112m wave-piercing ferry on Dover-Boulogne service
French ferry operator LD Lines will start operations of the largest fast ferry to run on the cross-channel route between the UK and France at the end of May. The Incat 112m ferry Norman Arrow has been long term bareboat chartered from London-based MGC Chartering, with a purchase option,
The fast ferry will be the first ever freight carrying high speed vessel to operate across the Dover Straits and LD Lines becomes the first French ferry company to operate fast ferries on the short sea routes from Dover.
At nearly 11,000grt the 40 knot Norman Arrow is the world’s largest diesel powered catamaran and will provide significantly greater sea-keeping qualities and passenger comfort than earlier generation fast ferries operating from Dover. With a passenger capacity of 1,200 and the ability to carry up to 417 cars or 195 cars and 30 freight vehicles, LD Lines new fast ferry will make four return trips per day between Dover (Eastern Docks) and Boulogne from 29 May, with a crossing time of just one hour.
The introduction of the Norman Arrow is a major development for LD Lines, further emphasising the strategy of the French company to firmly establish its business on the cross channel routes from Dover, as managing Director, Christophe Santoni explains: ‘This is a very exciting, innovative step forward for LD Lines and with the introduction of this new high speed ferry, we will be dramatically revolutionising ferry transport across the channel, with a style of service never experienced before on the Dover Straits. We will be offering a unique, combined high speed and conventional ferry sailing frequency via the Boulogne service, providing great appeal and choice, to meet the demands of tourists and freight customers and create new markets.’
LD Lines told ‘Off Radar’ that it was very likely that the company would be adding further high speed vessels to its services in the near future.
With the introduction of the new fast ferry on the Dover-Boulogne run, LD Line’s conventional ferry Norman Spirit will remain on the company’s Portsmouth-Le Havre service and not move to Dover as originally planned. Sphere: Related Content
The fast ferry will be the first ever freight carrying high speed vessel to operate across the Dover Straits and LD Lines becomes the first French ferry company to operate fast ferries on the short sea routes from Dover.
At nearly 11,000grt the 40 knot Norman Arrow is the world’s largest diesel powered catamaran and will provide significantly greater sea-keeping qualities and passenger comfort than earlier generation fast ferries operating from Dover. With a passenger capacity of 1,200 and the ability to carry up to 417 cars or 195 cars and 30 freight vehicles, LD Lines new fast ferry will make four return trips per day between Dover (Eastern Docks) and Boulogne from 29 May, with a crossing time of just one hour.
The introduction of the Norman Arrow is a major development for LD Lines, further emphasising the strategy of the French company to firmly establish its business on the cross channel routes from Dover, as managing Director, Christophe Santoni explains: ‘This is a very exciting, innovative step forward for LD Lines and with the introduction of this new high speed ferry, we will be dramatically revolutionising ferry transport across the channel, with a style of service never experienced before on the Dover Straits. We will be offering a unique, combined high speed and conventional ferry sailing frequency via the Boulogne service, providing great appeal and choice, to meet the demands of tourists and freight customers and create new markets.’
LD Lines told ‘Off Radar’ that it was very likely that the company would be adding further high speed vessels to its services in the near future.
With the introduction of the new fast ferry on the Dover-Boulogne run, LD Line’s conventional ferry Norman Spirit will remain on the company’s Portsmouth-Le Havre service and not move to Dover as originally planned. Sphere: Related Content
A trio of Canadian old ladies put up for sale
Canadian ferry operator BC Ferries fleet expansion programme has resulted in three ageing vessels being put on the market for sale. However, the age of the ferries will most probably mean that they will end their days in a ship breaking yard.
With the arrival of BC Ferries new three new Coastal class vessels, plus the Island Sky and Northern Expedition, the west coast operator has withdrawn from service the 1962-built Queen of Vancouver (1,272 passengers, 1,825 lane metres); the 1963-built Queen of Saanich (1,672 passengers, 1,825 lane metres) and the 1966-built Queen of Prince Rupert (544 passengers, 420 lane metres).
Any interested parties should contact BC Ferries at shipsforsale@bcferries.com
Sphere: Related ContentMonday, May 4, 2009
Dangers of English language difficulties
English language difficulties are causing more maritime deaths than piracy and sinking combined! The International Maritime Organisation says that there are over 100 fatal accidents every year , countless injuries and millions of dollars of damage are caused because of problems with the English language but two big advances will be reducing these fatalities
The IMO have worked on the problem for years. They wrote the Standard Maritime Communication Phrases (the SMCP) and passed various laws that all watch officers on ships of over 500 tons must learn the phrases and people are still dying. One reason is that there is no definition of what is meant by ‘an ability to use and understand the SMCP’ Chinese sailors are taught to one level, Italians to another.
Additionally, different Maritime English teachers teach different parts of the SMCP. Ukrainian mariners are using one part of the book and Philippine sailors another. Mother tongue seamen do not use the SMCP. It is not odd that there are accidents. It is strange there are not more!
An IMO regulation that demands standards of linguistic competence without defining the standards has created serious legal problems. An insurance company could refuse to honour an insurance policy in the case of an accident, because the crew has not been trained according to the IMO regulations, but there is no measure of ‘an ability to use and understand the SMCP’
A possible solution was born in Genova Italy. An Italian Company, Messina shipping commissioned the Training Company to write an exam. The exam was piloted with cadets at the Italian Shipping Academy in Genova. This is an international problem IMEC (the International Maritime English Committee ) discussed it at their last congress in Shanghai and agreed to try the exam all over the world.
It is being tried in a series of shipping academies and with different shipping companies in Asia and Europe. The International Transport Federation is monitoring the results and will set a global standard . Any companies or maritime teachers wishing to participate are invited to join in the experiment contact enquiry@thetrainingcompany.org for copies of the test
At the same time Cambridge University Press, the leaders in English language teaching publishing have issued a CD to teach the SMCP. The CD is completely self access. Mariners just need a computer and can study at sea. Every phrase in the SMCP is practiced several times and the student tests themselves to see if they have learned the material. They rehearse listening and speaking , they can record their voice, and compare their pronunciation to the models. The CD is available from Cambridge University Press http://www.cambridge.org
The IMO have worked on the problem for years. They wrote the Standard Maritime Communication Phrases (the SMCP) and passed various laws that all watch officers on ships of over 500 tons must learn the phrases and people are still dying. One reason is that there is no definition of what is meant by ‘an ability to use and understand the SMCP’ Chinese sailors are taught to one level, Italians to another.
Additionally, different Maritime English teachers teach different parts of the SMCP. Ukrainian mariners are using one part of the book and Philippine sailors another. Mother tongue seamen do not use the SMCP. It is not odd that there are accidents. It is strange there are not more!
An IMO regulation that demands standards of linguistic competence without defining the standards has created serious legal problems. An insurance company could refuse to honour an insurance policy in the case of an accident, because the crew has not been trained according to the IMO regulations, but there is no measure of ‘an ability to use and understand the SMCP’
A possible solution was born in Genova Italy. An Italian Company, Messina shipping commissioned the Training Company to write an exam. The exam was piloted with cadets at the Italian Shipping Academy in Genova. This is an international problem IMEC (the International Maritime English Committee ) discussed it at their last congress in Shanghai and agreed to try the exam all over the world.
It is being tried in a series of shipping academies and with different shipping companies in Asia and Europe. The International Transport Federation is monitoring the results and will set a global standard . Any companies or maritime teachers wishing to participate are invited to join in the experiment contact enquiry@thetrainingcompany.org for copies of the test
At the same time Cambridge University Press, the leaders in English language teaching publishing have issued a CD to teach the SMCP. The CD is completely self access. Mariners just need a computer and can study at sea. Every phrase in the SMCP is practiced several times and the student tests themselves to see if they have learned the material. They rehearse listening and speaking , they can record their voice, and compare their pronunciation to the models. The CD is available from Cambridge University Press http://www.cambridge.org
The new CUP course and the international exam are simple innovations that can reduce maritime accidents dramatically.
Stephen Murrell
Sphere: Related ContentGerman Elite Forces Need Improved Logistics Resources
Somalia — Germany's Spiegel has a very lengthy, interesting and in-depth report about Germany's elite GSG-9 police force and how two weeks ago it had to abort its mission to free the German freighter Hansa Stavanger, which was hijacked by Somali pirates April 4.
Ultimately the mission was cancelled by the United States, which had lent Germany the use of the USS Boxer, a helicopter carrier. However, while the article describes the planning and ultimate failure of this complex mission, it more importantly uses the hijacking of the Hansa Stavanger to highlight how Germany is logistically ill-prepared to effectively deploy security forces in these types of situations.
From Spiegel Online:
Ultimately the mission was cancelled by the United States, which had lent Germany the use of the USS Boxer, a helicopter carrier. However, while the article describes the planning and ultimate failure of this complex mission, it more importantly uses the hijacking of the Hansa Stavanger to highlight how Germany is logistically ill-prepared to effectively deploy security forces in these types of situations.
From Spiegel Online:
"The failed campaign demonstrated that without improved logistics and available aircraft and ships, the GSG-9 is incapable of operating swiftly enough in comparable situations"
Sphere: Related ContentMilitants Accuse Nigerian Navy of Piracy
Nigeria — The largest Nigerian militant group, the Movement for the Emancipation of Niger Delta (MEND), issued a statement Sunday in which it claims a Nigerian navy patrol boat stole fish and money from two trawlers. MEND says that if the fish and money are not returned in 48-hours it will retaliate against anyone wearing a Nigerian Naval uniform. The Navy denies its vessels were involved in the alleged attack.
Sphere: Related ContentOops. Pirates Attack French Naval Ship
Kenya — The crew of the French Navy's Nivose on Sunday detained 11 suspected pirates, 2 attack vessels and what appears to be a "mothership" in the Indian Ocean, about 600 miles off the coast of Mombassa, Kenya.
The pirates were detained after they seemed to be preparing to attack the Nivose, obviously not realizing it was in fact a French Naval warship.
Sphere: Related ContentSri Lankan Navy Foils Sea Tiger Suicide Bomb Attack
Sri Lankan authorities claim that this morning (5/1) the Sri Lankan Navy foiled a LTTE suicide attack on its vessels by killing at least 23 Sea Tigers and sinking 3 of their boats, 2 of which were said to be heavily-laden with explosives. The incident happened off the Mullaitivu coast where the last of the Tamil Tiger rebels are holed up.
The Sea Tigers are the naval component of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE or Tamil Tigers).
Sphere: Related ContentMore Oil Removed from Tank Farm Threatened by Volcano
United States — The Unified Command, Drift River Terminal Coordination, decided to remove additional oil from the Drift River Tank Farm that lies down river from Alaska's still very active Mount Redoubt volcano. The process began on April 28 and was completed by yesterday (4/30) morning. According to the U.S. Coast Guard, the potential threat posed by the stored oil at the Drift River Oil Terminal has been reduced by about 93%.
Italian Ship Attacked 3 Times in 36-Hours
Somalia — The Italian cargo ship, Jolly Smeraldo, evaded three Somali pirate attacks over a 36-hour period Wednesday and Thursday. The first attack came on Wednesday as the ship was about 300 miles southeast of Mogadishu. Thursday's two attacks happened in the morning as the vessel was headed north towards the Gulf of Aden.
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