Suitably named Icon of the Seas, is the first of a series of four Royal Caribbean International vessels also distinguished by a new bridge control solution for Azipod® technology. As part of the complete electric power and propulsion system from ABB, the solutiondelivers optimum vessel handling as well as environmental performance and safety.
In 1997, ABB won a breakthrough contract with Royal Caribbean International to equip, Voyager of the Seas, with three Azipod® propulsion units. Soon, other major cruise lines followed in the owner’s wake, with Azipod® propulsion establishing its leading position in the newbuild cruise market. Over 25 years later, Azipod® remains the industry benchmark, with more than 150 cruise ships relying on its unparalleled performance and flexibility.
In January 2024, the pioneering propulsion system achieved a new milestone as Royal Caribbean’s newest ship, Icon of the Seas, entered service equipped with a comprehensive scope of main electrical and propulsion systems which also included ABB's latest innovations for bridge control. The 250,000-GT ship is the first of a series of four Icon-class vessels, with Star of the Seas the second in line and set to be launched in the summer of 2025.
Efficient operations at sea and in port
These 365-meter length, 5,610 guest capacity luxury ships are the work of shipbuilder Meyer Turku and are each powered by six liquefied natural gas (LNG)-ready dual-fuel engines, with the complete electric power and propulsion system from ABB.
Azipod® propulsion is key to the performance of the Icon-class ships, where it provides optimum efficiency, maneuverability, and safety while minimizing noise and vibrations to ensure a comfortable onboard experience for guests and crew. Complementing the power and propulsion set-up is the ABB Ability™ Marine AX Bridge platform, which simplifies Azipod® operations on the bridge by harmonizing functions and information that are typically performed and displayed separately.
In addition, thanks to ABB’s shore connection technology, the ship can switch off its hybrid engines at available berths, instead of drawing on the landside electrical grid to serve the hotel load and cut emissions and noise in port.
Setting new standards in bridge operations
Developed in close collaboration with cruise operators, and Royal Caribbean in particular, the AX Bridge simplifies the vessel maneuvering experience, by combining and harmonizing functions and information that used to be separate. In addition to fewer levers and less informational noise, the system offers automated operations, operational support and assistance, such as dynamic positioning, all-speed joystick control, automated speed control and braking assistance functionalities enabled by ABB Ability™ Marine Pilot Control.
ABB is also delivering a comprehensive package of electric, automated, and digital solutions to the Icon class of ships. Since the integrated system is compatible with alternative power sources such as fuel cells, the vessels will be able to adopt new decarbonizing technologies in response to evolving regulations.
“Ever since the Icon project was initiated, the choices have been driven by a vision for a safer, more efficient, and lower-emission cruise industry at every step,” said Marcus Högblom, Head of Passenger Segment, ABB Marine & Ports. “As a result of this forward-thinking approach, Icon of the Seas and its sister ships are truly remarkable, future-proof vessels. We are proud to be a key supplier and partner to Royal Caribbean.”
