Earlier this year, the Japan Society of Naval Architects and Ocean Engineers selected the CITY OF ST. PETERSBURG for their 2010 Ship of the Year Award, recognising it as the most distinguished ship or marine construction built in Japan during the year.
Built by Kyokuyo Shipyard Corporation in Shimonoseki-city, this eco-friendly roll-on/roll-off car carrier combines innovative design with fuel efficiency and reduced CO₂ emissions. Much of the praise focused on the advanced manufacturing technology that brought to life a semi-spherically shaped bow, creating a distinctive wheelhouse layout.
Why SOLASAFE Roller Screens Were Essential for CITY OF ST. PETERSBURG
The semi-spherical bow resulted in uniquely shaped bridge windows. While unconventional, this posed no challenge for the Solar Solve team, who designed and produced 17 SOLASAFE® roller sunscreens for the navigation bridge windows to exact specifications.
These screens provide multiple operational benefits for crew and vessel management:
- Glare reduction: Prevents direct sunlight and reflections from interfering with navigation.
- Heat rejection: Maintains a cooler bridge environment, improving crew alertness and efficiency.
- UV protection: Shields crew members from harmful solar radiation.
- Cold and glare management in winter: Ensures consistent comfort even in harsh conditions.
These features make SOLASAFE roller screens a critical marine navigation aid for large vessels with complex bridge window layouts.
Operational and Environmental Benefits
Installing SOLASAFE® roller sunscreens goes beyond safety and comfort. They provide measurable efficiency and environmental advantages:
- Air conditioning cost savings: Reduces reliance on HVAC systems by controlling solar heat gain.
- Lower greenhouse gas emissions: Contributing to more sustainable marine operations.
- Improved crew well-being: Reduces fatigue, stress, and eye strain, supporting safer navigation.
For fleet operators interested in similar solutions, explore our marine solar blinds and cassette roller blinds for bridge applications.
About Solar Solve Marine
Since 1987, Solar Solve Marine has supplied over 184,750 screens and roller blinds to more than 19,170 vessels globally, ensuring ISO 9001:2015 quality assurance for all products.
John Lightfoot MBE, chairman of Solar Solve Marine, commented:
“Knowing the extensive and impressive vessel list we supplied with screens and roller blinds last year, we are confident that the CITY OF ST. PETERSBURG is the first of many award-winning ships of 2010 that Solar Solve will be associated with.”
Key Features of SOLASAFE Roller Screens for Marine Applications
1. Custom Fit for Bridge Windows
Designed to accommodate angled, curved, or non-standard windows, ensuring optimal glare control.
2. High-Performance Glare and Heat Rejection
Blocks up to 93% of solar glare and 87% of heat, improving crew alertness and reducing navigation errors.
3. Durable Marine-Grade Construction
Made from UV-stable fabrics with corrosion-resistant housings, ensuring long-term reliability in harsh sea conditions.
4. Ease of Operation and Maintenance
Quick-to-install cassettes and simple cleaning procedures maintain optical clarity and functionality.
Learn more about proper installation here: How to Install Outdoor Roller Shades
5. Environmental and Operational ROI
Energy savings and reduced CO₂ emissions contribute to more sustainable fleet operations while lowering operational costs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What makes SOLASAFE roller screens different from standard marine blinds?
They are type-approved for bridge installation, offering superior glare and heat rejection, UV protection, and a clear outward view while maintaining IMO/SOLAS compliance.
Q2: Can SOLASAFE roller screens fit uniquely shaped bridge windows?
Yes, all screens are custom-made to fit flat, angled, or curved windows on any vessel.
Q3: How do these screens improve crew performance?
By reducing glare, heat, and eye strain, crews stay alert and focused during navigation shifts.
Q4: Do SOLASAFE screens reduce energy consumption?
Yes, by blocking solar heat, they reduce the need for air conditioning, cutting operational costs and greenhouse gas emissions.
Q5: Are these screens suitable for all types of vessels?
Absolutely. They have been installed on award-winning car carriers, container ships, VLECs, and offshore vessels, providing safe and comfortable bridge environments.
Conclusion
The installation of SOLASAFE roller screens on the CITY OF ST. PETERSBURG demonstrates the critical role of anti-glare and heat-rejecting solutions in modern marine operations. Beyond improving bridge safety and crew well-being, these screens contribute to energy efficiency and environmental sustainability, making them a smart investment for fleet operators worldwide.
Explore more about our SOLASAFE roller screens and marine window sunshades to enhance bridge safety and operational efficiency.
