78 INTERVIEW A platform for green technologies From a new ship platform to technological innovations, there are several items on the current agenda for Princess Cruises. President John Padgett talks with Michele Witthaus The major cruise lines are continually investing in exciting new concepts for their ships. Princess Cruises is no exception, with its new Sun Princess ship platform set to revolutionise the way guests navigate the onboard (and onshore) experience. “Sun Princess is a totally bespoke vessel that allows us the unique opportunity to create experiences not found on any other cruise ship,” says John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises. “That being said, the venue that I find most fascinating is The Dome, a stunning entertainment venue that transforms depending on the time of day, offering a host of fun and unique activities.” The Dome will offer a multi-level covered deck which the company says is the first of its kind on a cruise ship: a true glass-enclosed dome. With flexibility at its heart, The Dome will have an indoor/outdoor pool water feature by day and become a stage and entertainment venue at night, with state-of-the-art lighting effects and the ability to deliver stunning aerial performances. “We’re sure that our guests will be as fascinated with The Dome as we are,” says Padgett. Running alongside the quest to bring the best possible cruise experience to guests is a commitment to taking the lead with energy efficiency and environmental initiatives that ensures ships and their itineraries are as environmentally friendly as possible. Set to debut in 2024, Sun Princess, along with her sister ship in 2025, will be powered by LNG as part of parent company Carnival Corporation’s investment in the fuel for its newbuilds. The ship will also feature a range of other technological solutions that have been rolled out across the fleet with a view to meeting environmental targets. “We have undertaken a variety of initiatives across the fleet underscoring our commitment to the environment,” says Padgett. “These include comprehensive recycling centres, dedicated environmental officers for each ship, high-tech energy management systems, advanced air and water treatment technology, slick hull paint “ We have undertaken a variety of initiatives across the fleet underscoring our commitment to the environment” An unusual view of a Princess Cruises newbuild from the front
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