AIDA to retrofit Rolls-Royce's Promas Lite propulsion system to AIDAsol

Rolls-Royce announced recently that Viking Cruises’ pair of ocean cruise ships building at Fintcantieri will be the first newbuilds to install its Promas integrated propeller and rudder system whereas Promas Lite is designed specifically for retrofitting to existing ships.

AIDA will install Promas Lite on AIDAsol during dry docking in December this year.

Andy Marsh, Rolls-Royce, president of services said: ‘Fuel efficiency is a key driver for our customers and we’re pleased to welcome AIDA Cruises into the group of leading cruise operators that are choosing Promas Lite as a relatively simple upgrade that will significantly reduce operating costs.

‘The fuel savings achieved by this system are typically in the range of 4-6% depending on the type of operation. Savings can increase beyond 20% when combined with an adapted operating profile and propeller blade design.’

Since first launched in 2008, 15 cruise ships and ferries have been fitted with Promas Lite propulsion systems during routine dry docking.