Scenic's new discovery yacht will be the first passenger ship with the podded engines
By
Rebecca Gibson |
Scenic Eclipse is to be the first passenger vessel to be fitted with ABB’s Azipod D propulsion system.
Billed as the ‘world’s first discovery yacht, Scenic’s newbuild will be equipped with two 3MW Azipod D units, which will be mounted outside of the ship in pods to reduce onboard noise and vibration, improving passenger comfort. Azipod D’s gearless construction, high motor efficiency and advanced hydrodynamic design ensure fuel consumption is typically 10-15 % lower than with geared thrusters, which will allow the vessel to operate in environmentally sensitive areas.
“Scenic Eclipse maintains the strong tradition of Azipod propulsion powering some of the world’s most innovative ships,” said Juha Koskela, managing director of ABB’s Marine and Ports business. “With our unrivalled pedigree in the passenger and icebreaking segments, we are able to meet the owner’s demands for a flexible and efficient propulsion system which can operate safely in all sea conditions.”
To be built by Uljanik Group in Croatia, Scenic Eclipse is to be delivered in summer 2018 and has been designed with the highest passenger ship ice-class rating – Polar Class 6 – to allow it to operate in polar waters. The yacht will also be equipped with zero-speed stabiliser fins that are 50% larger than the standard model.
Scenic Eclipse will weigh 16,500gt and will be able to accommodate 228 guests in 114 all-veranda suites and will also offer six onboard dining options; various bars and lounges; a 240-seat theatre. The ship will also have a 5,000 sqft spa with treatment rooms, indoor and outdoor Jacuzzis and plunge pools; and a gym with a separate yoga and Pilates studio.
Scenic’s onboard Discovery Team will work with experts to create onboard lectures and shore excursions that make use of a fleet of Zodiacs and kayaks, scuba diving and snorkelling equipment, two onboard helicopters, and a seven-seat submarine. For Arctic and Antarctica cruises, guest numbers will be limited to 200 to enable more landings per day for each guest.
The vessel will embark on her maiden voyage on 31 August 2018, sailing from Istanbul in Turkey to Venice, Italy. This voyage will be followed by 18 different itineraries in The Americas, Antarctica, Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Arctic and Norwegian Fjords.