Bureau Veritas Marine & 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 230 feet, it features five rigid sails designed by Cormoran/Ship-ST, integrated with 20,000 square feet of solar panels. This design enables silent, emission-free cruising, reducing CO₂ output by 90% compared to conventional vessels.
Its rigid sail system underwent a comprehensive assessment by Bureau Veritas, verifying its 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 Bureau Veritas in 2023.
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 & show that sustainable exploration is possible, and even be exhilarating.
… said Sophie Galvagnon, Co-founder and CEO of Selar
Christophe Chauviere, Vice President for Southwest Europe, North Africa, and the Americas at Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore, stated that the Captain Arctic represents a pioneering achievement in sustainable maritime design. He noted that by utilizing wind and solar energy, the vessel is set to establish a new benchmark for polar expeditions, reflecting a collective dedication to reducing carbon emissions and advancing innovative maritime technologies.
The Captain Arctic project embodies a pioneering spirit in sustainable polar exploration. At CNOI, we’re honored to build this groundbreaking 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.
… commented Franck PIRIOU, Director at CNOI
Laurent Mermier, CEO of Ship-ST, expressed that Selar is among the few shipowners bold enough to innovate in the industry. He added that Ship-ST and Cormoran are pleased and honored to design the Captain Arctic and its solar wings in collaboration with their longstanding partners, Bureau Veritas and CNOI.
