Silverstream air lubrication systems for Carnival Excel 4 and 5Silverstream air lubrication systems for Carnival Excel 4 and 5

Silverstream Technologies inked an agreement to supply air lubrication systems for Carnival Cruise Line's fourth and fifth Excel-class ships.

The 180,000gt vessels are scheduled for delivery in 2027 and 2028 from Meyer Werft.

The LNG-powered newbuilds will integrate Silverstream’s technology onboard, unlocking net fuel savings potential. Previously, the system delivered approximately 5% net fuel and emissions savings for Princess Cruises’ Diamond Princess.

16 Carnival Corp. ships

The order will result in a total of 16 vessels in Carnival Corp. & plc's fleet with the Silverstream System.

'Cruise operators have consistently been frontrunners in embracing advanced technologies across their fleets,' Silverstream founder/CEO Noah Silberschmidt said. 'Since 2016, we have proudly partnered with Carnival Corporation, the industry’s largest operator, to support their decarbonization journey with our proven air lubrication technology. The need of the hour is to raise decarbonization ambitions, and we are committed to building large-scale partnerships that advance sustainability across the entire sector.'

Standing out in a crowded marketplace

'Silverstream’s ability to deliver proven, verified GHG and fuel cost savings sets them apart in a crowded marketplace,' according to Carnival Corp. Chief Maritime Officer Bill Burke. 'Our continued partnership has thrived thanks to our shared commitment to advancing sustainability in the maritime sector. As we work towards net zero by 2050, we look forward to many more years of collaboration, driving energy efficiency, reducing fuel consumption and cutting emissions throughout our fleet.'

Related:Carnival expands installation of energy-saving air lubrication systems

The Silverstream System reduces frictional resistance between the water and the hull, minimizing net fuel consumption and associated greenhouse gas emissions by 5% to 10%. The system has been independently verified by Lloyd’s Register, HSVA, the University of Southampton, Carnival Corp. and Shell.

In addition to installation on newbuilds, Silverstream said the technology be retrofitted in 10 days or less.