Finnish technology group Wärtsilä has received an order to develop a design for up to six new luxury expedition cruise vessels to be owned and operated by Amundsen Expeditions.
As informed, the 200-passenger newbuilds are primarily intended for the growing Chinese market.
The design order with Wärtsilä was signed in the third quarter of 2019.
“The ships are designed to operate efficiently in both tropical and polar waters. Because of the harsh environment and often remote location of the cruise destinations, special attention has been given to ensuring the ships’ operational reliability,” Markku Miinala , General Manager, Ship Design Sales, Wärtsilä Marine, commented.
The Wärtsilä team has worked in close cooperation with Amundsen Expeditions to develop a concept that meets the owner’s precise specifications and requirements. The vessels are designed to be fitted with a complete package of Wärtsilä solutions, including Wärtsilä 32 engines, selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems for the abatement of nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, electric propulsion, the Wärtsilä Nacos Platinum bridge system for navigation and communication, as well as Wärtsilä automation solutions.
“Our one-stop-shop capability, which allows the ship design to be combined with a complete package of onboard solutions, enables a truly integrated design. This results in the various onboard systems working … in harmony to provide the optimal level of reliability and efficiency, while keeping cost and time considerations under control,” Maikel Arts , General Manager, Cruise Business, Wärtsilä Marine, explained.
The eventual supply package is likely to be supported by a ten-year maintenance agreement, which would ensure the safety, reliability, and efficiency of the vessels, the company added.