By
Alex Smith |
Crystal Expedition Cruises’ new expedition yacht Crystal Endeavor has successfully completed its second sea trial ahead of her delivery by German shipyard MV Werften.
The sea trial began on 20 May and involved performance and operational tests on the ship’s systems, machinery and engines, along with noise and vibration measurements. Captain Thomas Larsen and senior members of the Crystal Endeavor bridge and engineering teams participated in the sea trials in collaboration with the engineers, naval architects and builders from the MV Werften team.
The ship crash-stopped from full-speed to zero within 660 metres, significantly lower than the required 1,700 metres. Noise was also measured at 10 per cent lower than requirements, while vibrations were 80 per cent lower than required.
“These sea trials mark another successful milestone in the highly anticipated debut of Crystal Endeavor, bringing the award-winning Crystal Experience to the most remote places on the planet,” said Jack Anderson, president of Crystal. “We applaud the MV Werften team for their partnership and professionalism in overcoming the many challenges of the past year and their engineering expertise and design excellence in working to create and deliver a new standard in luxury expedition cruising.”
Crystal Endeavor is 20,200gt and features a Polar Class 6 hull for operation in the Arctic and Antarctic regions. The ship’s propulsion system includes two Azipod D units and a diesel electric power plant designed specifically for ice-going vessels, providing 13,020 kilowatts of power.
“The design and building standard of Crystal Endeavor is outstanding,” said Larsen. “Contracted for maximum speed of 19 knots, she has delivered an actual maximum speed of nearly 20 knots during sea trials, exceeding all performance expectations and standards with little to no vibration even during crash stop tests in the suites and public areas. This means a comfortable, enjoyable experience for guests even in unpredictable weather conditions.”
Crystal Endeavor will set sail from Reykjavik, Iceland, beginning on 17 July with five 10-night voyages circumnavigating the country. This will be followed by a 10-night voyage from Reykjavik to Tromsø, Norway, departing on 5 September.