DNV issues 1st passenger ship security certificate to Star Cruises’ SuperStar Aries
Star Cruises has become the first cruise ship operator worldwide to receive an International Ship Security Certificate (ISSC) according to the requirements of the International Ships & Ports Security (ISPS) Code. The certificate was issued to the Bahamian flagged ship SuperStar Aries, a 37,301 GRT passenger ship in DNV Class. DNV has full authorization from Bahamas to act as a Recognised Security Organisation (RSO) which enables DNV to issue ISSC certificates on their behalf.
DNV’s security manager for Asia Pacific Graig Hughes said: The certificate confirms that the vessel has developed and implemented a ship security plan in accordance with the ISPS Code, which stipulates that all vessels trading internationally must carry a valid ISPS certificate from 1 July 2004”
Chong Chee Tut, chief operating officer of Star Cruises commented: “The issuance of this certificate to SuperStar Aries is a first for any cruise ship company in the world. As a matter of self-governance, Star Cruises has already complied in a number of areas of the Code as part of its ship security policy and procedure well before the ISPS Code was officially adopted as a proactive measure to provide peace of mind to its passengers with safety being a top priority in the company.”
Hughes added, “It was obvious that Star Cruises due to the nature of their business take security as a fundamental component of their business risk management strategy as they have a very comprehensive security system in place. DNV would like to congratulate Star Cruises on being the first cruise ship operator to receive a ship security certificate under the auspices of the ISPS code.”
DNV is committed to helping its customers deal with the new code. For the past two years, the Society has conducted extensive research and pilot studies to prepare ahead. DNV’s head of security Øivin Lorentzen commented: “With over 40,000 vessels and 20,000 port facilities to be incorporated under the code, it is very important that the new requirements for shipping are made as practical as possible to avoid stopping the flow of trade, at the same time as increasing the security level.”
For further information contact:
DNV Shanghai:
Craig Hughes
Tel. (+86) 21 6278 8076
craig.hughes@dnv.comStar Cruises
Jane Poh
Tel. (+60) 3 3109 2526
sjpoh@starcrusies.com.myDNV Høvik
Øivin Lorentzen
Tel. (+47) 67 577032
Oivin.lorentzen@dnv.com
DNV Høvik
Stuart Brewer
Tel. (+47) 67 578511
Stuart.d.brewer@dnv.com