Singapore-based Sembcorp Marine said it had cemented its position as Asia’s top cruise shiprepair and upgrade solutions provider last year.
This announcement came with the completion of repairs to the ‘Costa Fortuna’ – the Group’s 10th and final cruise ship project of the year.
Operated by Costa Crociere, the 1,358-cabin vessel sailed from Sembcorp Marine’s Admiralty Yard in mid-December.
The vessels handled by the company included six vessels from leading cruise brands and long-term partners Carnival Cruises, Princess Cruises and Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, and one from new customer Norwegian Cruise Line.
Already, 2019 is shaping up into a busy year for Sembcorp Marine’s cruise shiprepair and upgrade business, thus far having confirmed 13 projects from companies such as Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, Star Cruises and Star Clippers Monaco. The Group will also managed the turnkey upgrade of the ‘Pacific Jewel’, Zen Cruises’ first Indian upmarket cruiseship.
All of the upgrades will take place at Sembcorp Marine’s Tuas Boulevard and Admiralty yards, both equipped with large and deep-draft drydocks ideal for mega-size cruise vessels.
“Sembcorp Marine greatly appreciates our partners and customers for choosing us once again to execute their important cruise vessel repair and upgrading projects,” said Head of Repairs & Upgrades, Alvin Gan. “We are very pleased to strengthen our track record in this niche market with 10 more successful projects, and at the same time contribute to Singapore’s progress as a leading cruise hub by providing reliable services to the cruise liners calling here.”
“Given the continued strong growth of cruise tourism, especially in Asia, Sembcorp Marine is well positioned to capitalise on the boom with our proven capabilities and facilities,” he added.
Sembcorp Marine has undertaken 102 cruise ship refit and upgrade projects over the past decade, averaging about 10 vessels per year.
Compared to the 10 projects last year, Sembcorp Marine completed 16 cruise ship repairs and upgrades in 2017 and nine in 2016.