Technology group Wärtsilä has announced a significant new partnership with Royal Caribbean Group, signing a five-year Lifecycle Agreement that will cover 37 of the company’s cruise ships. This landmark agreement aims to enhance the performance, reliability, and availability of the vessels’ engines, ultimately supporting and accelerating Royal Caribbean’s ambitious sustainability objectives.
Roger Holm, President of Wärtsilä Marine & Executive Vice President at Wärtsilä Corporation, emphasized the importance of this collaboration. “This agreement is a testament to the mutual efforts and dedication of both the Royal Caribbean Group and Wärtsilä teams. It not only solidifies our exemplary long-term partnership but also elevates our collaboration to new heights. Together, we are committed to achieving the highest operational reliability and meeting the strictest sustainability and decarbonisation standards in the cruise industry.”
Achieving net-zero operations in the cruise industry requires more than just installing advanced technological solutions. Ensuring these solutions operate optimally throughout their lifespan is crucial. Wärtsilä’s Lifecycle Agreements are designed to provide this assurance, highlighting the importance of collaboration in meeting industry goals.
Palle Laursen, Executive Vice President and Head of Marine for Royal Caribbean Group, commented on the partnership, stating, “Collaborations, with longtime partners like Wärtsilä, serve as a cornerstone in our joint efforts to accelerate reliable and sustainable operations and future initiatives. It provides a solid framework for sustained collaboration and will have a meaningful impact on ensuring our fleet’s sustainable operations, which is vitally important for us and our industry.”
The agreement aims to reduce the risk of unplanned maintenance and costly downtime while improving performance, saving fuel, and lowering emissions. This ensures that the ships operate efficiently and remain compliant with regulatory standards.
Under the agreement, Wärtsilä will provide both scheduled and unscheduled maintenance services, as well as its Expert Insight service through Wärtsilä’s global Expertise Centres. This service leverages artificial intelligence (AI) for predictive maintenance, enhancing asset efficiency and reducing operating costs and emissions.
Additionally, the agreement introduces a performance-based model where gains from optimal operation and maintenance practices will be shared between Royal Caribbean Group and Wärtsilä Marine. This model underscores the shared commitment of both companies to achieving the highest levels of reliability and performance.
About Wärtsilä
Wärtsilä is a global leader in innovative technologies and lifecycle solutions for the marine and energy markets. The company focuses on innovation in sustainable technology and services to help customers improve their environmental and economic performance. With a dedicated team of 17,800 professionals spread across more than 280 locations in 79 countries, Wärtsilä is at the forefront of the decarbonisation transformation in various industries worldwide.
About Wärtsilä Marine
Wärtsilä Marine is a pioneer in power, vessel propulsion, and lifecycle solutions for the marine market. The division develops industry-leading technologies to advance maritime’s transition to new fuels and supports the creation of a connected digital ecosystem for vessels and ports. Wärtsilä Marine drives the shipping industry towards a decarbonised and sustainable future through a comprehensive portfolio of engines, propulsion systems, hybrid technologies, exhaust treatment, shaft line solutions, and digital technologies.
The company’s performance-based agreements, upgrades, lifecycle solutions, and extensive maritime expertise ensure the efficiency, reliability, safety, and environmental performance needed for a sustainable future.
Source Wartsila