Kongsberg to tech-furnish Seabourn's cruisers

Photo: Kongsberg

The Norwegian company will deliver its K-Bridge Integrated Bridge System, incl. K-Pos Dynamic Positioning, to the Genova-based T.Mariotti yard where the newbuilds are constructed.

The order includes multi-functional workstations featuring touch-sensitive control panels, joystick operation and large information displays, a dynamic positioning solution, the SN90 forward-looking, omnidirectional sonar, an Electronic Chart Display and Information System (incl. an integrated docking aid and mosaic enhanced 360° radar images), and an ice radar.

The two ultra-luxury expedition cruise ships - the first, Seabourne Venture, scheduled for delivery in June 2020, while her yet-to-be-named sister ship is due to enter service in May 2022 - are being built according to the PC6 Polar Class standards. The vessels will carry two custom-built submarines, 24 Zodiac inflatable boats, and an array of kayaks.

"We will be able to offer our guests exciting, awe-inspiring expeditions in polar regions thanks to the technology that has opened up these areas for us. Safety is paramount, of course, which is why the K-Bridge system's pin-sharp radar images and built-in ice detection capabilities are so vital. We know we can navigate these areas with great confidence thanks in part to these systems," Robin West, Vice President of Expedition Operations for Seabourn, said.

Morten Stanger, Vice President, Passenger & Seaborne Transport, Kongsberg, also underlined, "Having the vital navigational technology contained within one centralised software and hardware environment simplifies and enhances operational processes - and when these vessels head off into remote, less-explored regions, having full control of the ship and complete awareness of surroundings is the top priority."