Oceanwide Expeditions has taken an exciting new step in enhancing its existing array of onboard navigation equipment on its expedition vessels. Following trials, IcySea is now being used on board each ship in the company's expedition fleet. This software provides near-real-time ice information, perfect for avoiding unnecessary ice navigation and helping to prevent delays and detours to daily itineraries. The addition of IcySea also directly supports Oceanwide Expeditions in its goal of lowering fuel consumption in line with a broader ESG strategy.
Further complementing expert vessel crews
Oceanwide Expeditions' vessel crews are expert mariners and among the best when it comes to safely navigating the icy edges of the world, where conditions can change quickly and the power of nature can be awe-inspiring. Along with their knowledge of the polar regions, Oceanwide's vessels are equipped with sophisticated technical equipment that makes navigating in remote, often poorly charted regions both safe and more efficient.
Piet Vink, Managing Director, Oceanwide Expeditions - "IcySea complements both our existing arsenal of navigation tools and systems, as well as the knowledge and expertise of our captains, bridge officers, and vessel crews. It has proven to be a valuable tool for voyage planning in the medium- and short-term, and for Arctic and Antarctic navigation. With it, our vessels can respond to emerging ice reports, and continue to deliver exceptional experiences for our guests in the face of dynamic weather & atmospheric conditions."
A better polar experience for guests
This enhanced ability to utilize near-real-time sea ice information is an ideal tool for all expedition cruises, but especially useful for special itineraries that plunge into the Weddell Sea, chase the Arctic pack ice, or venture far below the Antarctic Circle in search of the Southern Lights. Guests will benefit from smoother voyages with fewer disruptions due to ice conditions, as well as a wider variety of alternative landing sites and excursion areas, allowing itineraries to be adjusted in real-time.
With IcySea, Oceanwide Expeditions is more efficient, more resilient, and better prepared to take customers to the very edges of the map - and into a polar adventure that will forever change the way they view the world.