Aurora Expeditions’ newest expedition cruise ship, the Greg Mortimer, has passed its sea trials ahead of its inaugural cruise to Antarctica on October 31, the cruise line said.
Named after Aurora Expedition’s co-founder, the company said that the Greg Mortimer is the first ship with the patented Ulstein X-Bow design, a new technology that allows for gentler sea crossings, improved comfort and reduced emissions. The ship also has a Tier 3 engine, which is the lowest pollution marine engine in the world, giving off 80 percent less emissions compared to Tier 1 engines, Aurora said. The ship is also Ice Class 1A and Polar Code 6 rated.
Other onboard amenities include sea-level Zodiac and activity loading platforms, which streamlines loading and unloading, as well as black-out blinds to reduce the risk of bird strikes, dedicated observation decks and outdoor viewing areas.
The sea trials tested the ship’s overall system functionality, equipment and operational performance, including comfort, vibration and noise tests. Safety performance tests also included tests of the unmanned cabin and return to port technology.
The Greg Mortimer will now undergo the final touches its interior and exterior, and the ship’s staff and crew will begin training before the official launch and 12-day inaugural voyage, departing Ushuaia on October 31.
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