ABB has been awarded a contract to supply an integrated package, including two Azipod® steerable propulsion systems, for the construction of China’s first ever home-grown cruise ship.
The 323-meter vessel, due for delivery in 2023, can accommodate 5,000 passengers and is designed to suit the tastes of Chinese cruise travelers whose numbers are expected to rise to 8-10 million annually by 2025, according to industry body Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA).
Said Mr. Gang Chen, General Manager of Shanghai Waogaoqiao Shipbuilding Co., Ltd: “With this project, China is making great strides in cruise shipbuilding. We believe the key to success is in working closely with experienced stakeholders.
“Our selection of ABB is based on their unparalleled know-how of the cruise market, as well as capabilities and understanding of running projects locally in China.
“I’m looking forward to seeing the close cooperation between ABB and the shipyard to provide high level solutions and services for the first cruise vessel built in China.”
ABB will supply an integrated package to the vessel including two Azipod® units which are proven to cut fuel consumption by up to 15 percent, reduce noise and vibration and offer 360-degree maneuverability.
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The drive motor of the Azipod® is located in a submerged pod below the hull of the ship and has been an industry benchmark in environment-friendly cruise technology since its launch in 1990.
The package also includes a complete electric power plant concept with electricity generators, main switchboards, distribution transformers and a propulsion control system for moving the Azipod® units from the bridge.
The vessel will support a flourishing Chinese cruise market, which is expected to rival that of the United States over the next decade or two, according to the China Cruise and Yacht Industry Association.
The new vessel will be part of a fleet of Chinese-built cruise ships operated by CSSC Carnival Cruise Shipping Limited, a joint venture between Carnival Corporation Plc and China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC). Shanghai Waigaoqiao is a wholly-owned subsidiary of CSSC.
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