ABB secures Genting cruise ships deal

Each of the six 286m vessels will be propelled by twin Azipod units, with a combined power of 30 MW and will run on LNG. The vessels will be built by the Genting-owned shipbuilding company MV Werften and are due for delivery in 2023 – 2024.

“These vessels represent the next generation of cruising with their high flexibility, sustainable profile and highest safety and efficiency standards,” commented Gustaf Gronberg, executive vice president, marine operations & newbuilding, Genting Hong Kong.

The vessels will have the capability to be connected to ABB Ability Collaborative Operations Center infrastructure, which monitors the performance of ABB technology on board and remotely connects operators with ABB experts.

Cruise travelling is becoming more popular for holidaymakers and according to industry body Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), 30 million passengers are expected to cruise the seas in 2019 – a 6% increase year-on-year. CLIA also reports that travellers expect sustainable technology on board.

“Azipod propulsion has become an industry benchmark for environmentally-friendly cruise technology, with its proven ability to cut fuel consumption by up to 20% compared to traditional shaftline propulsion systems,” said Juha Koskela, managing director, ABB Marine & Ports. “Fuel savings of over 900,000 tonnes have been made in the cruise segment alone due to the selection of Azipod propulsion.”