X-bow-engineering-feat

2005: X-BOW® - Norwegian Engineering Feat of the Year

After the launch of the ULSTEIN X-BOW® concept in 2005, the bow has received, or been nominated for, a number of Innovation Awards. The first was the Norwegian Engineering Feat of the Year from the magazine “Teknisk Ukeblad” in 2005.

Published
09 July 2005
Updated
18 February 2026
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The Norwegian Engineering Feat of the Year 2005 award was presented to an engineering solution to a technical or social problem that has local, national, or international significance for society. The solution is intended to represent a good idea that has demonstrated commercial viability or socio-economic significance and was carried out or completed during the period 2004-2005.

The ULSTEIN X-BOW introduced a larger, more slender forward volume, which represented a fundamental shift in volume distribution: 

The increased bow buoyancy allows the forebody to ride over waves rather than dive into them, eliminating slamming and ensuring smooth, gentle motion through the sea.

More to read about the ULSTEIN X-BOW

Employees from Ulstein Design Solutions AS ULS 01203 PES7868
Greg Mortimer's X-BOW cutting the seas, photo: Scott Portelli/Aurora Expeditions.

Why are vessels with the X-BOW more efficient?

The X‑BOW reduces slamming and energy loss by means of an optimised volume distribution, delivering smoother motions and improved crew comfort. Its performance remains consistent across varying draughts and speeds, unlike conventional flared bows that are optimised for a limited operating range.

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