Expedition

Navigating the Future of Expedition Cruising

Innovative Weather and Ice Navigation Solutions for Safer Journeys

Hermess is a experienced weather and oceanographic services company that recently developed personalised weather and ice navigation services tailored specifically for expedition cruise operators around the world. With a focus on safety and risk mitigation, we leverage over 50 years of expertise in the shipping industry, responding to the challenges posed by climate change and evolving maritime conditions.

We provide personalised boutique-style weather and ice navigation services to ensure safe expedition cruise operations. Our meteorological support is essential for planning voyages during unpredictable weather conditions.

The need for specialised services

Impact of Climate Change on Maritime Operations

Global warming and climate change are leading to rapidly changing weather patterns and increased risks in maritime operations. Extreme weather events are more frequent, making it crucial for expedition cruise operators to have access to specialised weather services that can provide accurate forecasts and guidance to mitigate these risks.

Climate change causes floating sea ice conditions to worsen by accelerating melting, making detailed ice navigation support more and more important.

Specialised support services

  • Boutique weather services

    We provide specialised weather and ice navigation services tailored to the specific needs of your expedition cruise, providing crews regular and relevant updates.

  • Safety & risk mitigation

    We focus on risk mitigation by providing custom guidance for remote landing operations considering all logistical aspects. This enhances overall expedition success and safety.

  • Expert support

    Support of ice pilots and meteorologists, ensuring that the crew can consult with experts at any time. This direct access to professional guidance empowers crews to make informed decisions.

  • Ice Navigation

    We provide detailed ice navigation support, providing forecasts of ice conditions and expert routing advise. This specialised guidance helps vessels navigate safely through this challenging environment.

Changing conditions in polar regions

The southern ocean has witnessed a significant rise in extreme wave heights, with recorded heights reaching 26.4 meters in April 2012. Individual waves may approach 30 meters, creating substantial challenges for navigation and safety in this region. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for expedition planning and risk mitigation.

Historical Context: Lessons learned from the Titanic

The Titanic disaster prompted significant reforms in maritimes safety and operations. The shipping industry has since recognised the importance of real-time weather data and expert guidance for ensuring the safety of vessels navigating challenging conditions.

Our Expert Team

Professor John Hay - Climate Change Research

Professor John Hay is a Nobel Prize recipient for his significant contribution to climate change research. He is an IPCC lead author and has co-authored several publications focussed on the intersection of tourism and climate change.

Professor Hay offers a balanced perspective on climate issues, combining scientific realism with action-oriented optimism. His expertise helps guide effective strategies in the face of climate change.

Dr. Peter McComb - Physical oceanographer and science leader

Physical oceanographer with 30 years of global experience in metocean studies, collection and analysis of environmental data, marine instrumentation and numerical wave modelling. Expert in coastal processes, harbour dynamics, infragravity waves and Antartic processes. A proven track record in leading scientific teams and managing complex marine research projects. Seeking to apply his extensive oceanographic expertise to the cruise ship science and navigation training.

Captain Nenad Mogic - Ice Pilot & Polar Code Instructor

Captain Nenad Mogic has logged over 700 days in Arctic and Antarctic waters, starting his polar navigation career in 1998. With more than 25 years of extensive experience, he has navigated through some of the most challenging environments, including the Great Lakes, Arctic, Antarctic, Alaska and Greenland.

His expertise includes complex ice formations and extreme weather conditions ensuring safe and succesful expeditions. His deep understanding of polar environments allows him to make informed decisions for vessel operators in treacherous conditions.

Captain Rajko Zupan - Ice Pilot & IMO Consultant

Captain Rajko Zupan is a world-class polar navigation specialist with extensive knowledge of Arctic and Antarctic conditions. With decades of combined expeditions experience, he has navigated the most challenging ice conditions and extreme weather, ensuring safe and successful expeditions. His qualifications include Ice Piloting, Polar code and ship handling, instructor/lecturer and IMO consultant.