Maritime software, services and data analysis provider NAPA is to install software on board Isle of Man Steam Packet Company’s (IoMSP) new ropax ‘Manxman’.
The software will optimise operations and enhance safety and follows the signing of an agreement with Hyundai Mipo Dockyard (HMD) and passenger shipping company, IoMSP to build the ropax for the Heysham/Douglas route.
‘Manxman’ is scheduled for delivery in 2023.
This contract marks a series of firsts for NAPA; the first commissioning of NAPA Safety Solutions by IoMSP and the first installation conducted at HMD.
Under the agreement, NAPA will provide IoMSP with NAPA Emergency Computer, which assesses the vulnerability of an intact ship, as well as its survivability in case of a flooding emergency, and NAPA’s Loading Computer, which optimises vessel load while minimising stress and safety risk.
Both software systems have been approved by all the major classification societies.
The 133 m long ropax has also been designed using NAPA’s 3D modelling and design functionalities, with the company’s hull form optimisation, stability assessment and initial structural design further optimising efficiency and safety in the conceptual and approval phases.
IoMSP’s CEO, Mark Woodward, commented, “We are proud to be recognised as a ferry operator raising standards in the sector. ‘As unquiet as the Irish sea’ is a common English proverb, and climate change is increasing the risks of extreme weather events.
“The addition of NAPA’s software to better monitor conditions, mitigate risk and enhance ship-shore communication will be increasingly important to the safety of our crew and passengers,” he said.
Lars Nickel, NAPA’s Sales Director, Safety Solutions, added, “At NAPA, we pride ourselves on enabling vessel owners with the highest level of safety, efficiency, and performance.
“We are therefore pleased to have NAPA Emergency Computer, and NAPA Loading Computer, safety securing ‘Manxman’ on the increasingly turbulent Heysham/Douglas route,” he said.
Since its launch in 2015, NAPA’s emergency computer is used by nearly all the major cruise lines, including Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, Norwegian Cruise Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Genting Cruise Lines, Virgin Voyages, Saga Cruises, Hurtigruten, and Lindblad Expeditions.
