ABB to supply propulsion system for two Carnival Corporation newbuilds

Holland America Line’s Koningsdam and a Carnival Cruise Line newbuild are to be fitted with complete electrical power plants and Azipod electric propulsion systems from ABB.

As part of the US$60 million contract with both brands parent company Carnival Corporation & plc, ABB will provide generators, main switchboards, a remote control system, distribution transformers and the gearless Azipod propulsion system. This system improves safety, fuel efficiency and is environmentally friendly.

Both the 2,650-passenger Koningsdam and the 3,954-passenger Carnival newbuild – which will be a sister to Carnival Vista – are currently under construction at the Fincantieri yard in Italy. The ships will be delivered in the fourth and first quarter of 2018 respectively.

“These beautiful new ships on order from Fincantieri signify our ongoing commitment to provide the best possible guest experience across our industry leading brands,” said Arnold Donald, president and CEO of Carnival Corporation. “New ships with the latest features, accommodations and innovations really bring the modern cruise experience to life and will help us continue to grow new demand for cruising.”

ABB has worked with Fincantieri and Carnival Corporation for more than 25 years, first installing an electric propulsion system on a Carnival vessel that was being constructed at by the Italian shipbuilder in 1990. Since then, 14 ships built by Fincantieri have been equipped with ABB’s Azipod propulsion, while 24 Carnival Corporation’s ships feature the system.

“We are pleased to continue our collaboration with Fincantieri, which is known as one of the world’s leading cruise ship builders,” said Heikki Soljama, managing director for ABB’s Marine and Ports business. “Longstanding customer relationships with leading shipyards such as Fincantieri are testament to our continued dedication to quality and customer value.”