Ultra-luxury vessels will feature Azipod units to improve environmental impact and guest comfort
By
Elly Yates-Roberts |
Automation firm ABB will provide a power and propulsion package for Seabourn’s two new luxury expedition ships.
ABB will supply Seabourn’s two 170-metre, 23,000gt ships with its signature Azipod propulsion unit to improve environmental impact and guest comfort. It will also provide main generators, switchboards, converters, bow thruster motors and remote-control monitoring systems. Seabourn Venture and a yet-to-be-named vessel are expected for delivery from the T. Mariotti shipyard in June 2021 and May 2022 respectively.
“As always, the owner is closely involved in all aspects and as always, technical choices have been driven by the need for safe, reliable and sustainable operations for guests,” said Marco Ghiglione, managing director of T. Mariotti. “We are delighted to work with ABB on this high-end project as their expertise in cruise and ice-going segments, as well as local presence in Genoa, complements our shipbuilding capabilities in the most optimal way.”
Built to strict ice-class hull specifications, the 264-passenger vessels have been designed for the luxury polar expedition market. The Azipod propulsion systems will also free up space to allow the vessels to carry additional crafts such as kayaks, rubber boats and submarines.
“The selection of ABB’s Azipod propulsion was a natural decision for Seabourn because, in conjunction with our Polar Class 6 ice-strengthened hull, they will provide excellent manoeuvrability and operational control in the polar and other regions around the globe,” said Rick Meadows, president of Seabourn. “Azipod propulsion also means lower levels of vibration, which is a major plus for guest comfort. As a UNESCO World Heritage cruise partner, Seabourn also values the fact that Azipod units enable sustainable operations.”
Seabourn is the latest in a growing number of operators that have chosen Azipod propulsors for their expedition ships. So far, over 20 of these ships feature the technology, including Lindblad Expeditions’ National Geographic Endurance and a yet-to-be-named ship, a CSSC Carnival Cruise Shipping Limited cruise ship and Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration’s electric ferry.
“With their exclusive, private club atmosphere and a range of sophisticated design features, these ships will be some of the most innovative in the expedition cruise market,” said Marcus Högblom, head of Passenger Vessel segment at ABB Marine and Ports. “It is pleasing that Seabourn, a high-end cruise client, has opted for an extensive ABB power and propulsion package that plays into the benefits of our integrated electric, digital and connected capabilities.”