[ 4 ] THE SHIP OF THE FUTURE As a leading builder of highend ro-pax ferries, Guangzhou Shipyard International (GSI) is extremely proud to have successfully completed P&O Ferries’ next-generation P&O Pioneer and P&O Liberté — the world’s largest double-enders. T hanks to the double-ender design, a first on the English Channel, turning manoeuvres in the busy ports of Dover and Calais are something of the past. This saves considerable time, warranting a reduced service speed while still guaranteeing 90-minute berth-to-berth transit times. A lower speed positively impacts the energy consumption and emissions footprint, something further enhanced by the hybrid solution in the shape of an 8.8MWh capacity energy storage system, i.e. batteries, as well as a long list of energy-saving technologies that have been implemented. Actually, P&O Pioneer’s extensive sea trials confirmed that fuel consumption would meet all the most exacting targets. Besides environmental stewardship, the Fusion-class — as P&O Ferries has coined its Ship of the Future — also stands out in terms of comfort and style. The diesel-electric propulsion with ABB Azipods guarantees zero vibrations, while the relaxing shipboard environment with its modern, crisp design offers a welcome break for passengers travelling to and from the Continent. Ample outside deck space with fixed seating spread over two decks offers passengers stunning views of the passing scenery with Dover’s iconic white cliffs as a backdrop, an altogether different proposition to the fixed link below the sea. Besides the passengers, the crew too appreciate the low noise and zerovibration levels. They live onboard, being accommodated in all-outside cabins located between the forward and aft wheelhouse on Deck 10. P&O Ferries has gone to great lengths to drastically improve the working and living conditions onboard its Fusionclass. Obviously, the zero vibrations are part of this ambition as are height-adjustable navigation consoles and the comfortable “ We believe that we are true pioneers and a leading shipyard in the world in terms of this ship type. We are extremely proud of this achievement and are convinced that our customers will benefit from this strength” PRIDE OF THE P&O FERRIES FLEET By William Zhou Xuhui
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