By
Rebecca Gibson |
Wärtsilä, a marine solutions and services provider, signed a five year contract to maintain its four 50DF dual-fuel main engines and its LNGPac gas system's safety valves onboard Viking Line’s most recent vessel, Viking Grace.
According to the agreement, which became effective on 1 March 2013, Wärtsilä will provide a range of services including engine maintenance planning, maintenance work, condition monitoring, spare parts supply, technical support and workshop services. The contract will extend maintenance intervals and optimise the logistics for spare part deliveries, while the vessel’s increased efficiency will lower fuel consumption and operating costs.
“Viking Line has enjoyed an excellent relationship with Wärtsilä and this has led to deep co-operation between both parties in finalising this agreement,” said Tony Öhman, senior vice president, marine operations and newbuilding, Viking Line. “The agreement provides predictability in maintenance issues, and through extending maintenance intervals, we can lower operating costs and optimise the lifecycle efficiency of Viking Grace.”
Viking Grace is the largest passenger ferry to operate on liquefied natural gas fuel and currently operates on the Turku-Stockholm route in the Baltic Sea. The 2,800-passenger vessel carries cars, trucks and road trailers and is able to sail in Sulphur Emissions Control Areas (SECAs). Its dual-fuel technology will also enable it to sail in the upcoming Nitrogen Emissions Control Areas (NECAs).