Norwegian cruise ship to get Promas upgrade

The Promas Lite integrated propeller and rudder will be installed in November this year, during the ship’s routine drydocking. The system is designed specifically for retrofitting, and Rolls-Royce says it will significantly reduce operating costs for Hurtigruten, thanks to an estimated propeller efficiency improvement of 11%-14% at 15 knots.

The Richard With was originally equipped with twin Rolls-Royce CP propellers. The upgrade will be partly paid for with a grant of up to 80% of the installation cost from the Norwegian Government’s NOx fund, which encourages ship operators to invest in NOx reduction technology.

Andrew Marsh, Rolls-Royce, president – services said: “As an experienced operator of this system, Hurtigruten recognises the fuel savings and relatively short return on investment achieved by retrofitting Promas Lite. We have equipment installed on board most of Hurtigruten’s cruise vessels, and for many years we have worked together to develop and operate efficient propulsion systems suited to fleet requirements. We look forward to continuing this long relationship.”