Abstract Field testing of a modified Totally Enclosed Motor Propelled Survival Craft (TEMPSC) was conducted in March 2013 in managed level ice conditions. This testing was part of a multi-year trials program, conducted by the National Research Council (NRC), which aims to investigate design considerations for a conventional TEMPSC operating in ice. During the March 2013 testing campaign, the TEMPSC was equipped with a side impact panel and bow visor, both instrumented with load cells to measure local ice impact forces. The resulting local ice load measurements taken during this field trials campaign are presented and the operational performance is discussed. This was the first year during the trials campaign in which local loads on the stem were measured and recorded. The results of this set of field trials could be useful to support the implementation of new TEMPSC design considerations to allow for better performance in harsh, northern conditions. It could also provide operational insight to promote more effective and low stress navigation through ice conditions.