NEPTUNE

Could expedition cruise vessels be an oil spill response asset in the Arctic?

About

The Neptune project is a collaborative initiative under the Arctic Council’s Emergency Prevention, Preparedness, and Response (EPPR) Working Group. The project partners include the Norwegian Coastal Administration (NCA), the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO), and the U.S. Coast Guard. The project explores the potential role of expedition cruise vessels in Arctic oil spill preparedness and response.

Funded by the Arctic Council’s EPPR working group, the Neptune project received a grant of NOK 360,000 awarded to the Norwegian Coastal Administration and AECO. This funding supported the launch of the Neptune project, which aimed to investigate how expedition cruise vessels can be effectively utilized in Arctic oil spill preparedness and response.

Why Expedition Cruise Vessels?

With the increase in Arctic expedition cruise activities, these vessels are often among the first on the scene in the event of an incident at sea or on land. Their widespread presence across the Arctic during the cruise season means they could serve as valuable first responders, providing critical support until larger, specialized resources arrive.

Key Objectives and Activities of the Neptune Project:

  1. Assessing Capabilities and Challenges: The Neptune project conducted surveys among cruise operators and Arctic oil spill authorities to evaluate the equipment, training, and readiness of expedition cruise vessels for oil spill response. This assessment considered factors such as available space, storage capabilities, crew competence, and the costs associated with enhanced preparedness.
  2. Engaging in Realistic Exercises: The project involved tabletop exercises (TTX) with operators like Hurtigruten and Lindblad Expeditions, using vessels such as the Roald Amundsen and National Geographic Explorer. These exercises provided insights into the operational capabilities and limitations of cruise vessels in oil spill scenarios, helping to shape future training and collaboration efforts.
  3. Promoting Collaborative Response Efforts: Findings from the Neptune project indicate that the expedition cruise industry, with its commitment to sustainability and self-reliance, is well-positioned to play a significant role in Arctic oil spill response. The presence of these vessels in remote areas can provide essential first-response services, including communication, initial site assessment, and logistical support during emergencies.

The Way Forward

The Neptune project highlights the untapped potential of the Arctic expedition cruise fleet as a critical asset in oil spill preparedness and response. By fostering closer collaboration between the experdition cruise industry and Arctic states’ oil spill authorities, the project aims to enhance the overall readiness and effectiveness of oil spill response efforts in this fragile region.

For more information about the Neptune project and AECO’s initiatives, please visit the EPPR website: eppr – NEPTUNE

Last update: 03. September 2024