ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews historical highlights related to sailings into polar seas, particularly the Barents Sea region. The objective is to identify how ship design and operations for the polar seas have evolved over the centuries and to describe the role of international cooperation in this process.
The design of ice-strengthened vessels is discussed, likewise the evolution of the requirements for an ice class vessel design. The discussion leads to a review of the present requirements for the fleet of polar vessels carrying cargo, containers, and products from the oil and gas industry as well as for cruise ships. Thereafter, a discussion is presented of possible future requirements for ships operating on polar seas. The role of the International Maritime Organization is highlighted with a request for launching additional relevant international norms as the maritime activities in the Arctic are on the increase and the technology is progressing toward autonomous ships.
In parallel with the discussion on ship design and operations, concerns related to the safety of those involved in sailings and expeditions in polar seas are commented on. It is argued that international cooperation is important to ensure safety in the design and operations of ships on polar seas.
