Wärtsilä's new dual-fuel engine to power Orient Express Silenseas

The 116-passenger, 220-meter/722-foot vessels are being built at Chantiers de l’Atlantique for delivery in 2026 and 2027.

Option for two more newbuilds

There is an option for an additional two ships. Wärtsilä booked the order in May but is just now announcing it.

Wärtsilä said the 25DF is the most efficient and environmentally friendly marine engine in its power range. It features a two stage turbocharging system, common rail fuel injection and cylinder wise combustion control. This enables power density and efficiency across the full operating range, delivering low fuel consumption and reduced emissions.

Silent, compact and powerful

'These will be very special cruise vessels and have been designed to operate with a high level of environmental sustainability. For this reason, the Wärtsilä 25DF engine was selected. It is silent, compact in size yet powerful in performance, so it was the perfect choice for these ships,' said Yann Penduff, Chantiers de l’Atlantique project manager.

'The Wärtsilä 25DF is an engine that supports the shipping industry’s transition to greater fuel efficiency and a much-reduced carbon footprint,' said Stefan Nysjö, VP power supply, Wärtsilä Marine Power. 'It marks the beginning of a new era of future-proof medium speed, small-bore engines, and comes as an important step towards the maritime industry meeting its decarbonization goals.'

Full order's scope

For each vessel the full Wärtsilä scope includes four 25DF engines, each developing 2070 kW at 1,000 rpm; four gas valve units and four Wärtsilä NOx Reducer emission after-treatment systems.

The equipment is scheduled for delivery to the shipyard commencing in autumn 2024.