Faced with unprecedented challenges over the past two years, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, industry forecasts now indicate that passenger volumes are expected to recover and surpass 2019 levels by the end of next year.
The cruise industry is actively preparing for this increase in passengers and the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) Registry is well-positioned to assist the industry during this recovery period, the registry claimed.
For example, recognising seafarers as ‘key workers’ early in the pandemic, the registry has been actively engaged in assisting passenger vessel operators to find real-time solutions to crew contract and repatriation issues.
Delay in service and support can be common when equipment is brought back online, but not used at full capacity. The cycling of equipment disrupts the maintenance schedule, and can cause technical concerns or maintenance issues. The registry’s fleet operations and technical teams, stationed worldwide, are available to assist clients with complementary technical support 24/7.
RMI claimed that its proactive outreach helps owners/operators prevent and identify areas of concern early, before they become costly repairs or deficiencies, and also provides flag state advice and guidance without delay.
Flag state technical support is also critical in the newbuilding process with innovative vessel designs and new advanced technologies. RMI Registry’s Cruise Team members engage with existing clients to review technical specifications for newbuildings.
The most recent example is Oceania Cruises’ latest vessel, ‘Vista’, currently under construction at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Genoa, Italy, which incorporates new technologies. ‘Vista’ is 67,000 gt, will accommodates up to 1,200 pax, and is scheduled for her maiden voyage in early 2023.
Source: Oceania Cruises
