Scenic Eclipse to be powered by Azipod propulsionScenic Eclipse to be powered by Azipod propulsion

ABB Azipod D’s gearless construction, high motor efficiency and advanced hydrodynamic design ensure fuel consumption is typically 10-15% lower than with geared thrusters. Azipod propulsion has so far clocked up more than 12m running hours since its first installation a quarter of a century ago.

Azipod D has less installed power than other models and has gained traction in the market since its launch in 2015. Orders have been received in the offshore sector.

Built to Polar Class 6 the vessel will have the ability to navigate the summer waters of the Polar regions.  The ship’s two 3 MW Azipod units will allow it to reach destinations previously off limits for large passenger vessels.

Juha Koskela, md of ABB’s Marine and Ports business, said, 'Scenic Eclipse maintains the strong tradition of Azipod propulsion powering some of the world’s most innovative ships.  With our unrivalled pedigree in the passenger and icebreaking segments, we are able to meet the owner’s demands for a flexible and efficient propulsion system which can operate safely in all sea conditions.'

With the engine mounted outside of the ship, passengers benefit from a reduction in noise and vibration whilst the freed-up space can be used for other purposes.  In Scenic Eclipse’s case, this includes a submarine and six restaurants.

16,800gt Scenic Eclipse is due for completion in 2018.  The vessel will have a capacity of 228 passengers (200 in polar regions) and 172 crew (182 in polar regions) with a total of 114  passenger cabins, the largest being 233sq mtr. The ship will be 168mtr long.