ABB to Power Genting’s Universal Class Cruise Ships

Technology company ABB has secured a EUR 157 million (USD 175.5 million) contract to supply power, propulsion and digital solutions for Genting Hong Kong’s six next-generation cruise vessels.

Genting will operate the six Universal Class ships for global hotel brands who want to enter the cruise industry but are facing constraints related to most shipbuilding slots being occupied at present.

To be built by Genting-owned shipbuilder MV Werften, the ships will feature a gross tonnage of 88,000 tons and a capacity of 1,000 to 4,000 passengers. They are due for delivery in 2023-2024.

The new vessels will be designed to “the highest safety and environmental standards” and will be powered by ABB’s Azipod electric propulsion, ABB said.

Specifically, each of the 286-meter vessels will be propelled by twin Azipod units, with a combined power of 30 MW, and will run on low-emission liquified natural gas (LNG). The propulsion system, where the electric drive motor is in a submerged pod outside the ship hull, can rotate 360 degrees to increase maneuverability and operating efficiency. Due to minimal noise and vibration, it is also said to improve passenger and crew comfort.

“These vessels represent the next generation of cruising with their high flexibility, sustainable profile and highest safety and efficiency standards. ABB’s Azipod electric propulsion … has been a natural choice for these vessels,” Gustaf Gronberg, Executive Vice President, Marine Operations & Newbuilding, Genting Hong Kong, commented.

“With these vessels, we enter a new era of sustainable cruising, and we are pleased to collaborate with ABB, who through the years have proven to be a reliable solution provider enabling us to deploy advanced technology that defines the future of cruising,” Peter Fetten, President and CEO of MV Werften, said.

Genting Hong Kong sea-based businesses include Star Cruises, Dream Cruises, and Crystal Cruises, along with German shipyards MV Werften and Lloyd Werft.