Vard takes wraps off innovation project

JUNE 2, 2015 — Under the banner “A Step Forward,” Vard Holdings Limited has launched an innovation project that, it says, follows its strategy and long shipbuilding traditions of developing high technology and new solutions.

Three of Vard’s specialized companies, Vard Accommodation, Vard Electro and Vard Design, have joined forces with designer Per Ivar Selvaag and Montaag, a California and Norway-based design agency, to develop a range of products and concepts.

The goal has been to develop tools to enable higher returns on investment for clients, increase the efficiency and ease of operations, and provide an attractive work environment on board.

The new ideas present innovations as stand-alone products, or combined as a total concept.

Vard says the exterior of its concept vessel “cuts an unmistakable profile in the horizon; a reflection of its many exciting interior features.”

The captain sits perched above the ship overlooking the operations from a cockpit bridge that offers a 360 degree view of the ocean.

Separate cockpit bridge and operations decks provide crew and client access to spacious working areas, allowing for an overview of the outside operations without interrupting the captain.”

The new SeaQ Bridge is designed with the operator in mind and is organized to achieve an efficient workspace with focus on ease of operation, safety and ergonomics. The functionality is built around a completely new framework for flexible integration of maritime software applications.

An aim of the project is to make the experience on board more personal, and provide an attractive work environment that eases the transition between on shore and on board life. Working areas and leisure areas are logically placed, and separated from each other while a new SeaQ Cabin is designed to add a sense of privacy, and arranged to increase the quality of recreation – all to ensure a well-rested crew.

The project was unveiled at Nor-Shipping in Oslo today. Visitors are invited to experience Vard’s new bridge, cabin and interiors, and a ship model.

Vard Design is presenting ideas and concepts to be further developed together with the customer while Vard Electro and Vard Accommodation present ready-to-use products assembled according to customers’ needs.

Vard CEO and Executive Director Roy Reite said: “Seeing how highly competent Vard employees have worked alongside Montaag to develop creative and cost-effective maritime solutions for the future has been an inspiration. I am proud that we stay true to our values and continue to focus on satisfying customer needs despite the current market challenges. It is now more important than ever that we work closely together and deliver on our promise ‘built on trust.’ “