By
Rebecca Gibson |
Wärtsilä has agreed to provide maintenance services, technical assistance and spare parts for 46 of the cruise ships in Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.’s (RCL) fleet until 2028.
First signed in 2013 to cover a 10-year period, the companies’ agreement has been extended by five years to help RCL to benefit from predictive maintenance planning so it can reduce lifecycle costs, optimise operations and increase safety.
According to the new agreement, Wärtsilä will deliver improved Turbocharger maintenance for a total of 196 engines installed on 46 cruise ships, most of which sail in Europe and the Caribbean. It will also offer 24/7 technical support around the world, as well as workshop services and spare parts sourcing from original equipment manufacturers.
“When it comes to maintenance planning and operations, the marine and cruise industry is moving more and more toward long-term partnerships,” said Sean Carey, service unit director for North America at Wärtsilä Services. “This is a natural direction, as it enables a holistic approach to vessel maintenance. A partner that understands the installation and optimises its condition throughout its lifecycle can help Royal Caribbean to enhance its business. Close cooperation is essential in such partnerships.”