China Classification Society awards AiP to CSSC cruise ship

A new luxury cruise ship design developed independently by China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC) has been given Approval in Principle (AiP) by China Classification Society (CCS).

The 80,000 GT cruise is being heralded as an important milestone for CSSC, highlighting its ability to apply key technologies in cruise development. The ship is also the result of close co-operation with CCS, as China’s shipbuilding industry looks to take the initiative in developing domestic large cruise ship projects.

The ship has a total length of 293.5 m and a width of 34m. Its design includes a number of enhanced and technology leading features. In order to enhance energy efficiency, CSSC has optimised the aerodynamic and hydrodynamic performance of the vessel’s superstructure and equipped a range of energy-saving devices.

The ship meets the requirements of the phase three of the International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI).

CSSC has refined the cabin planning and air-conditioning systems in order to meet the EPC3 standards given in CCS’ Guidelines for Epidemic Prevention and Control of Ships.

The ship’s speed and capacity also compare favourably with the most advanced similar luxury vessels internationally.

Mr Wang Zhirong of CCS said: “This cruise ship design marks an important milestone for CSSC and underlines the R&D work and the innovation and green technology advances being made.

“CCS has worked closely in partnership with CSSC on this breakthrough project and will continue to play a leading role in supporting China’s maritime sector and the industry supply chain as it looks to develop and deliver domestic large cruise ship projects.”

Founded in 1956, CCS is headquartered in Beijing and is a full member of the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS).

It provides classification services to ships, offshore installations and related industrial products by furnishing world-leading technical rules and standards.

It also provides statutory surveys, impartial and integral classification, verification, certification and accreditation and other services in accordance with international conventions, regulations and the related rules and regulations of the authorizing flag states or regions.