By
Rebecca Gibson |
This article was first published in Spring/Summer 2018 issue of the International Cruise & Ferry Review. All information was correct at the time of printing, but may since have changed.
Norway-based company Norsafe develops advanced technology marine lifesaving systems for all types of ships and offshore installations. Since 1903, it has produced more than 29,000 conventional and freefall lifeboats, fast rescue boats and davits.
Norsafe has developed a modern, partially enclosed lifeboat (PELB) that provides a secure and protected means of escape for up to 150 people onboard passenger vessels. The Safety of Life at Sea-compliant Minima 88 lifeboat is 8.8 metres long and 4.25 metres wide.
The Minima 88 has a red canopy, white hull and a streamlined exterior, as well as several key features. A spacious cockpit in the middle of the boat provides excellent visibility during embarkation, offering a good view for the helmsman. The forward visibility is also good, while a roof hatch in the cockpit provides vertical visibility towards the davits during launching/retrieval processes. The large side doors help crew and passengers embark onto the two levels of seats quickly. A mechanical steering nozzle offers optimum manoeuvrability and increased bollard pull.
Xiamen Shipyard in China has contracted Norsafe to deliver six Minima-88 lifeboats with compatible LHD-200 davits for Finland-based ferry operator Viking Line’s latest newbuild. The LNG-fuelled ferry will enter on routes across the Baltic Sea between Turku, Finland and Stockholm, Sweden in 2021.