By
Alex Smith |
Grandi Navi Veloci (GNV), part of the MSC Group, has converted its ferry Splendid into a floating hospital equipped to assist patients suffering from Covid-19 in Genoa, Italy, along with those convalescing from the illness.
GNV began work on the conversion project in early March, collaborating with classification society RINA and the Liguria Health System and Civil Protection. It was determined that Splendid could quickly increase the Liguria region’s hospital capacity and, if necessary, serve other areas of Italy.
The ferry is stationed at Ponte Columbo in Genoa’s ferry terminal and currently offers 25 beds in single cabins, though it is possible for additional cabins to be equipped for a total of 400 beds. The floating hospital also features a heliport and dedicated areas for healthcare personnel and crew.
RINA verified the compliance of the floating hospital with current regulations, ensuring that safety and medical needs were met in the current crisis. The classification society provided its services for free, as did a number of partners who made their products available in order to equip the ship with the necessary supplies.