Bureau Veritas Marine and Offshore (BV) is collaborating with shipowner Selar, designer Cormoran/Ship-ST and shipyard CNOI on the certification of ‘Captain Arctic’, Selar’s pioneering polar expedition cruise designed to operate with close to zero carbon emissions.
Under construction by CNOI, the vessel is the first of its kind in polar exploration, built for complete sustainability with primary propulsion from wind and solar energy. Measuring 70m in length, it features five rigid sails designed by Cormoran/Ship-ST, integrated with 1858m2 of solar panels. The design is intended to enable silent, emission-free cruising, reducing CO₂ output by 90% compared to conventional vessels.
Its rigid sail system underwent a comprehensive assessment by BV, verifying compliance with BV’s rules for safety and performance, including BV NR206 for Wind Propulsion System. The rigid sail and solar wings were granted Approval in Principle (AiP) from BV in 2023.
Sophie Galvagnon, Co-founder and CEO, Selar, said: “The maritime industry represents 3% of the global CO2 emissions, there is an urgent need for radical shifts especially on growing markets like the expedition cruise. At Selar, we want to inspire and show that sustainable exploration is possible, and even be exhilarating.”
Christophe Chauviere, BV VP Southwest Europe, North Africa and Americas, said: “The Captain Arctic is a trailblazing example of what’s possible in sustainable maritime design. By harnessing wind and solar energy, this vessel will set a new standard for polar expeditions, driving forward our shared commitment to reducing carbon emissions and advancing innovative maritime technologies.”
Franck PIRIOU, Director at CNOI, said: “The Captain Arctic project embodies a pioneering spirit in sustainable polar exploration. At CNOI, we’re honoured to build this ground-breaking vessel in collaboration with Selar, Ship-ST, and Bureau Veritas, demonstrating our commitment to innovative, low-emission solutions for the future of the maritime industry.”
Laurent Mermier, CEO Ship-ST, said: “Selar is one of the few shipowners that dare to change the game. Ship-ST and Cormoran are delighted and proud to design the Captain Arctic and its solar wings while accompanied by our long-time partners Bureau Veritas and CNOI.”
Image: ‘Captain Arctic’ (source: Bureau Veritas)
