Luxury hotel group’s vessel will be equipped with two Azipod D propulsors to optimise energy use
By
Elizabeth Robinson |
ABB is to provide the power and propulsion equipment for the first in a series of cruise vessels for the new Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.
As part of the contract, ABB will provide solutions that optimise energy efficiency and allow the 298-passenger vessel to be remotely monitored from the shore.
Two Azipod D propulsors will enable the ship to manoeuvre efficiently and effectively, while the Remote Diagnostics Service will provide a smarter approach to maintenance.
“We have been serving the cruise industry for three decades,” said Juha Koskela, managing director of ABB’s Marine and Ports Business. “Our efforts during the last 10 years in building up a solid global network to serve the increasing number of customers have been fruitful. Now new partners wish to make use of this experience. Whether it is the largest cruise ships in the world or these luxurious mega-yachts, we serve our customers with consistent quality globally.”
The Azipod D is ideal for smaller vessels because of its lower installed power. Unlikely bulky traditional shaft line systems, the Azipod D has an electric motor installed in a pod outside the hull, freeing up space for more cabins. The thrusters’ ability to turn in all directions will make it easier for the ship to access ports without the help of tugs, which will be beneficial during her itineraries in New England, Caribbean and Mediterranean waters.
“When we set out to design and build an ultra-luxury cruise yacht for the Ritz-Carlton brand, we wanted to select the critical systems and equipment from among the most experienced suppliers known for their reliability and quality,” said Erik Bredhe, marine operations director at The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. “The obvious choice for power and propulsion was ABB, and we expect them to meet and exceed our quality standards as partners for many years.”
Ritz-Carlton’s first ship will be built by H.J. Astilleros Barreras (HJB) in Spain and is scheduled to set sail in 2019. The 190-metre long vessel will accommodate 298 guests and has been dubbed the ‘anti-cruise ship’ because she will provide a more bespoke service than larger cruise ships.
“This is a very exciting concept and we are delighted to have ABB as a partner, which has a proven record of delivering systems on many similar, and larger passenger vessels,” said Alfonso López Loureiro, sales director at HJB.