ABB and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) have signed a long-term partnership agreement to accelerate the decarbonisation and digitalisation of the Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) fleet. Targeting increased safety and efficiency, the agreement covers 14 existing ships and a further four vessels due for delivery from 2025 to 2028.
The first phase of the partnership includes a 10-year Azipod® propulsion service agreement for the fleet, providing efficient preventive maintenance to support safety and maximise vessel availability as well as fast turnaround for planned Azipod® propulsion maintenance.
Long-term collaboration with ABB
The entire NCL fleet can connect to shoreside power supply for emissions-free operations
In addition, ABB will supply modernisation of the propulsion control system for 11 vessels, and shore connection installations on board four ships. With these planned installations the entire NCL fleet can connect to shoreside power supply for emissions-free operations while in port.
“We are pleased to solidify our long-term collaboration with ABB in a strategic partnership that aligns with our climate action strategy, centered as it is on the pillars of efficiency, innovation and collaboration,” said Patrik Dahlgren, Executive Vice President, Vessel Operations, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings.
He adds, “With ABB’s support, we will accelerate the decarbonisation and digitalisation of our fleet, taking our operations another step forward towards a sustainable future.”
Integral role in the modernisation
“Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings is a highly valued partner of ABB, and this agreement reaffirms the strong collaboration between our companies. We are pleased to continue our collaboration and see our solutions and services playing an integral role in the modernisation of their growing cruise fleet,” said Juha Koskela, Division President, ABB Marine & Ports.
He adds, “Through this collaboration, we will help NCLH to achieve safer and more efficient vessel operations while, more broadly, contributing to maritime decarbonisation.”
Based in the United States of America (USA), NCLH operates vessels under three wholly owned subsidiaries: Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, all of which incorporate and utilise ABB technologies.
Conventional shaftline systems
From its creation three decades ago to its pioneering position in shipping, Azipod® propulsion has revolutionised marine transport by delivering unparalleled gains for performance, efficiency, sustainability and reliability.
The gearless, steerable propulsion system, with the electric drive motor in a pod outside the ship’s hull, can rotate 360 degrees to increase vessel manoeuvrability and efficiency, while cutting fuel consumption by up to 20 percent compared to conventional shaftline systems. Since the first installation on a cruise ship over 25 years ago, Azipod® technology has saved more than one million tons of fuel in the cruise segment alone.
