ABB, the leading power and automation technology group, has won orders worth $60 million to deliver complete electrical power plant and propulsion systems for two new luxury vessels for Star Cruises operated by Genting HongKong and to be built by Meyer Werft at its shipyard in Papenburg, Germany. The orders were booked during 2014.
ABB will supply complete electrical systems for the new vessels, including power generation and distribution systems and thruster motors, as well as its latest-generation Azipod XO propulsion system, commanding power output of 20.5 megawatts (MW). ABB's energy efficient Azipod propulsion uses less fuel than traditional systems and provides greater maneuverability in all operating conditions. ABB's technology will contribute to optimized vessel performance and a high level of passenger comfort and safety.
Star Cruises, one of the world largest cruise operators, has led the development of the cruise business in the Asia-Pacific region, where it operates seven vessels connecting a wide range of destinations. Based on the freestyle cruising concept, where passengers can dine at their leisure, and world class service with a warm touch of Asian hospitality, Star Cruises caters also to passengers from North America, Europe and Australia.
"This order from Meyer Werft for Star Cruises vessels demonstrates that leading cruise ship owners, in addition to prioritizing passenger comfort, demand outstanding maneuverability and overall cost efficiency from the vessels," said Heikki Soljama, Managing Director of ABB's Marine and Ports business. "Our successful track record in delivering the best solutions to meet these demands has resulted in ABB establishing a leading position in the cruise vessel market."
"Star Cruises has successfully operated cruise vessels with conventional ABB electric propulsion since late 1990's. For our newbuilding project we evaluated alternative propulsion concepts and selected Azipod because the proven fuel savings and improved safety of operations are a good match with our needs," says Captain Gustaf Grönberg SVP Marine Operations & Newbuilding, Star Cruises.
The 150,000 gross tonnage, 330-meter cruise ships with 1,682 passenger cabins will be able to accommodate 4,925 passengers each and will be delivered one apiece in fall 2016 and 2017. The new vessels continue the successful collaboration between ABB, Star Cruises and Meyer Werft: Star Cruises' SuperStar Leo and Superstar Virgo were also built by Meyer Werft and feature ABB technology. Meyer Werft is recognized as one of the leading shipyards providing efficient high quality cruise vessels.
About Azipod electric propulsion
Azipod propulsion is a gearless steerable propulsion system where the electric drive motor is in a submerged pod outside the ship hull. It improves safety, fuel efficiency and is the most environmentally friendly propulsion system.
About ABB
ABB (www.abb.com) is a leader in power and automation technologies that enable utility and industry customers to improve performance while lowering environmental impact. The ABB Group of companies operates in around 100 countries and employs about 145,000 people.
About Genting Hong Kong Limited ("Genting Hong Kong")
Genting Hong Kong is a leading global leisure, entertainment and hospitality corporation. The primary business activity of Genting Hong Kong is cruise and cruise related operations under the brand of Star Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line and 2 newly joined members, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises. These brands operate a combined fleet of 28 ships visiting over more than 450 destinations worldwide, offering approximately 47,400 lower berths and is the world's third largest cruise operator.
Genting Hong Kong's first foray in a land-based attraction, Resorts World Manila opened its doors in the Philippines to the public in August 2009. Resorts World Manila is one of the premier leisure brands under the Genting Group and the Philippines' first one-stop, nonstop vacation spot for top-notch entertainment and world-class leisure alternatives, featuring 3 hotels including a sixstar all-suite Maxims Hotel, an iconic shopping mall, 4 high-end cinemas and a multi-purpose performing arts theatre.
About Meyer Werft GmbH ("Meyer Werft")
MEYER WERFT, with a shipbuilding history stretching more than 200 years, has achieved an excellent worldwide reputation. The company is particularly well known for its work building large, modern and sophisticated luxury cruise ships.
