Polar Code Climate Study

For one client operating in the Polar Regions, Navimeteo have developed a Climate Study based on a future vessel itinerary navigating in the Polar Regions. Vessels that operate in these regions are required to adhere to the Polar Code and must obtain either a Category A, B or C Polar Ship Certificate. The Polar Code is intended to cover the full range of shipping-related matters relevant to navigation in waters surrounding the two poles – ship design, construction and equipment; operational and training concerns; search and rescue; and, equally important, the protection of the unique environment and eco-systems of the polar regions. 

Ships operating in the Arctic and Antarctic environments are exposed to a number of unique risks.  Poor weather conditions and the relative lack of good charts, communication systems and other navigational aids pose challenges for mariners. The remoteness of the areas makes rescue or clean up operations difficult and costly. Cold temperatures may reduce the effectiveness of numerous components of the ship, ranging from deck machinery and emergency equipment to sea suctions.  When ice is present, it can impose additional loads on the hull, propulsion system and appendages.

Under Operations & Manning ships must receive Navigation information regarding ice conditions, and the Climate Study developed by Navimeteo feeds into the preparations for the vessel's audit. The component of a Climate Study can vary according to the specific client needs, but would typically be founded on simulated historical data. These give good indications for typical climate patterns and expected conditions at a certain time of year. In the polar regions, the simulated weather data have a spatial resolution of approximately 12 km, so may not be representative of all local weather effects, such as thunderstorms, gust fronts, etc.