Submitted by Anonymous on Wed, 07/23/2008 - 06:45

Hi, Ms. Ward! It's been a lot of fun following your trip through the PolarTREC website. But, I'm just wondering, how is the ship powered? Does it use coal, or oil? Because it would have to be powerful to break through ice.

 

Jack W. 

Gerty Ward

Dear Jack! 
Thank you for following along.  Your interest makes me want to write more.  About the engine-- it is diesel electric, meaning that a diesel engine is connected to an electric generator that creates electricity that powers electric traction motors.  The ship has 5 engines and three propellors, giving it the extra power needed to break through thick ice. 
We have not yet encountered any thick ice; however, the Louis is Canada's largest and most powerful ice breaker and has been to the North Pole!  So she is up to the task. 
Later on in the trip, I will tour the engine room and give you a full report!
By the way, check out yesterday's journal on Beautiful and Unusual Things-- you will see a friend!
 All the best, 
Mrs. W