HX Expeditions and Napa Launch Digital Checklists to Boost Cruise Safety

HX Expeditions has co-developed and launched a digital checklist system with Finnish technology developer Napa to improve safety and efficiency on its expedition cruise ships. The tool guides crews through procedures in the correct order and automatically records each action with a timestamp. Designed for vessels often sailing in remote and environmentally sensitive areas, the system feeds completed checklists into shoreside platforms, enabling real-time monitoring while reducing duplicate administration.

 

Details of the Launch

 

HX Expeditions has introduced a new digital safety tool. It co-developed the system with Finnish technology developer Napa. The tool is a digital checklist for expedition cruise ships. HX Expeditions is the expedition arm of Hurtigruten. The system aims to raise efficiency and improve safety.

The tool is gaining traction beyond its original developer. Three other ship operators have also adopted it. Some are already using the checklists across their fleets. Others are in the process of implementing them. This uptake reflects broader interest in the system.

 

How the System Works

 

The checklist guides crews through procedures systematically. It helps crew members follow procedures in the correct order. Every action is recorded automatically with a timestamp. This creates a reliable record of each completed task. The guided approach reduces the risk of missed steps.

The system integrates with existing shipboard tools. Completed checklists feed into Napa's logbook tool automatically. They also connect to a shoreside fleet-intelligence platform. This removes the need for a second round of data entry. It enables real-time monitoring of operations and workflows.

 

The Two Components

 

The system consists of two distinct parts. The first is a mobile-device application used on board. This provides automated and guided workflows in the correct order. It follows the approved procedure for each task. This on-board component supports crews during their work.

The second component serves shore-based teams. It is a checklist editor for safety and compliance teams. This allows them to create and update templates. They can then publish these to one vessel or the entire fleet. This centralised control ensures consistency across operations.

 

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Benefits for Operations

 

The system improves visibility across the fleet. Checklist status is visible fleet-wide from shore. This shows whether lists are completed, in progress or overdue. Managers can see this without needing to call the ship. This real-time visibility supports oversight of operations.

The system also aids regulatory compliance. Timestamped, named records are available instantly. These support class and port state control inspections. Checklists can be configured for mandatory lists under IMO rules. They also cover an operator's internal safety management systems.

 

The Design Philosophy

 

The developers emphasised a distinctive design approach. Napa noted a difference between a form on a screen and a guided workflow. The tool carries the correct procedure into each task. It records the work as it happens. It also connects to the ship's existing systems.

This approach aims to ease the burden on crews. The goal was to reduce the load on those doing the work. It was not intended to add another system to manage. HX Expeditions wanted a tool built around how crews actually work. This user-focused design underpins the system's development.

 

Development and Adoption

 

The tool was developed collaboratively over time. Input came from officers and crew across operators. This engagement began in the fourth quarter of 2024. It drew on both cruise and expedition operators. This collaborative process shaped the final product.

Strong adoption has followed this development approach. Napa reported strong uptake wherever the tool has been deployed. This success reflects the crew-focused design philosophy. HX Expeditions operates a fleet of five cruise ships. These offer voyages to over 250 destinations across more than 30 countries.