Cruise & Ferry Review - Autumn/Winter 2020

1 1 7 Stepping up During a time of great uncertainty, classification societies have delivered much-needed support to the cruise industry. Lindsay James finds out how S ince the start of 2020, the relentless work of classification societies operating across the globe has proved to be invaluable to the cruise sector. Thanks to new technologies, a great deal has been achieved in a very short space of time. The introduction of remote surveys, for example, has ensured that ships can continue to be surveyed efficiently and securely, maximising profitability and minimising future downtime. Other concerted efforts will ensure risks are mitigated and new procedures are in place so that vessels are ready to take passengers as soon as they are able. In the pages that follow we speak to experts from three leading classification societies to find out more about the innovative support they are providing. Joep Bollerman outlines how Lloyd’s Register is continuing to inspect and certify vessels, and provides an overview of the organisation’s new advisory and technical support services. We also hear from Hans Eivind Siewers, who explains how DNV GL is meeting the rising demand for remote services through an extended digital offering. And finally, Andreas Ullrich outlines the progress being made by Bureau Veritas, highlighting the key measures that the organisation has established to enable business continuity. These measures include remote verification, which is enabling the collaboration of teams and stakeholders who are located in different regions so that they can make decisions with confidence. CFR FEATURE: CL ASS IFICATION