Danish AHTS becomes first vessel to gain IMO Polar Code approval
The AHTS Magne Viking has become the first ship ruled to be in compliance with the new IMO Polar Code. The vessel, owned by Viking Supply Ships, gained approval from DNV GL and the Danish Maritime Authority.
“As this vessel was already winterised and built for operation in cold climate, most of the additional requirements in the Polar Code were already fulfilled before we started the implementation process” commented Andreas Kjøl, project director at Viking Supply Ships.
The IMO Polar Code is mandatory for all SOLAS vessels entering Arctic and Antarctic waters after January 1 next year.
The director general and CEO of the Danish Shipowners’ Association, Anne Steffensen, said: “The first vessel to comply with the IMO Polar Code is an important first step in opening up the Arctic region commercially. The fact that the first certified vessel is flying the Danish flag comes as no surprise. A number of Danish shipowners have a strong focus on the development of the Arctic and have experience navigating in the region.”