Survitec introduces new evacuation system for smaller passenger shipsSurvitec introduces new evacuation system for smaller passenger ships

Targeted at vessels with passenger capacities ranging from 300 to 1,500 persons, such as ferries and expedition cruise ships, the new MES solution will be officially introduced during this week's SMM Trade Fair in Hamburg before being rolled out for full market availability from early 2023.

The new MES solution builds on Survitec’s success and growing market share in the larger cruise ship market, where the company has installed some of the largest dry-shod MES systems on the most advanced cruise ships.

Up to 30 months' service option

Customers can expect to see operational and cost efficiencies with an extended service MES option of up to 30 months, although the standard 12-month service offering remains available. Survitec also provides training programs for crew to improve their emergency evacuation skills and learn how to correctly deploy MES.

'We were aware that there was demand for an extended service MES solution with high functionality to serve the ferry and small passenger cruise market. We went back to the drawing board and took a fresh look at how we could drive innovation to meet this need,' said Richard McCormick, AES and MES product manager, Survitec.

'The 30-month service interval this technology affords brings convenience to the customer. This is because all of the complex logistics around servicing only have to be undertaken roughly every two and a half years. The cost savings for vessel owners are obvious,' McCormick added.

Fully enclosed spiral design

Using the fully enclosed, dry-shod helical (spiral) slide design of the company’s Marin Ark 2, the new MES solution promises safe, rapid and intuitive descent for people of all ages and abilities. There is no restriction on the size of individual users, and crew can ascend the slide to assist passengers if necessary.

Fully enclosed single and double helical slide options are available in an asymmetric arrangement. The new MES solution comprises self-righting, approved life rafts for 50, 100 and 150 persons, with  SOLAS A, B and HSC emergency packs.

For use on vessels with up to 23 meters of freeboard, the new MES solution will be type-approved later this year by classification society Bureau Veritas, according to SOLAS and MED requirements.

Inflation within 60 seconds

With a choice of life raft options to meet customer needs, the flexible design allows for installation in a wide range of configurations. Survitec said inflation takes place automatically within 60 seconds and minimal crew interaction is needed during this phase. Multiple buoyancy compartments provide stability and safety in the toughest sea conditions.

Global service coverage is provided by a total of 59 service stations around the world.

SMM takes place Sept. 6-9.