New SeaWalk could assist travellers

Every new major invention that comes along is viewed with some
skepticism in this space until it is proven. That was true with all
the hype surrounding Oasis of the Seas, the largest cruise ship in the
world at that time. Did the ship match the hype? In that case, it did.

Usually technology is not the mandate of Ports and Bows.

The column is designed to keep you informed about ports to visit,
unique cruises, new ships, pricing, ships designed for all
demographics.

Every once in a while, something unique comes along. For example, the
"something unique" in this column - if it's successful and if the item
I'm about to describe can do what inventors claim it can do - could
eliminate a lot of tendering.

It could also open up newer ports for less than 50 per cent of what is
currently being spent on port infrastructure, and could be ready to go
in nine months, rather than two years.

This invention is called SeaWalk. Many experts in the cruise industry
are looking at SeaWalk and its Norwegian heritage, which is loaded
with architects and engineers who have worked on some of the most
well-known ships.

While it's unique, SeaWalk is quite simple. Yet, considering where
ships now have to tender, or where ports are difficult to build,
SeaWalk may be the answer. This portable walkway reaches out to a
ship, like a gangway to a plane, only on water.

The ship backs into port, is attached at the bow to a fixed buoy, and
is locked onto two bollards at the stern. SeaWalk then expands across
the water, from shore to the nearest passenger exit, and is secured in
short order, with space for passengers to walk to and from the ship
throughout the day - with little or no environmental impact.

That last promise comes from Phil Crannell, President of Ports and
Maritime Group International, and the man who will be selling it in
North and South America.

He says: "It's so innovative in moving passengers that I liken it to
the first moving gangways that entered service in the port of Los
Angeles in the '60s. The technology is suitable only for ports that
have a protected ingress, and adequate water depth for a ship to come
close to shore."

The team who invented SeaWalk is Asbjorn Nes, a partner in Cruise
Ventures, along with Ole Heggheim and Arthur Kordt of European Cruise
Service. The naval architect is Kai Levander.

Although they have no financial interest in the company, Carnival
Corporation has shown interest in SeaWalk. Carnival Corp.'s Giora
Israel saw the potential for SeaWalk, and is making experts from his
company's operations and nautical teams available to offer advice on
its development.