Wärtsilä ANCS, part of the Finnish technology group, has completed the first pilot installation of its NACOS Connect remote mimics application, part of the NACOS Platinum family, on Princess Cruises latest flagship ‘Sun Princess’.
This deployment introduces a new level of vessel operations by enhancing shoreside access to real-time data from the ship’s integrated automation systems and sets a new standard for remote vessel management, Wärtsilä claimed.
The pilot project was initiated as part of an agreement between Wärtsilä and Princess Cruises signed in 2021.
Wärtsilä ANCS’s NACOS Platinum automation system enhances operational efficiency by providing an onshore technical representative with a complete, real-time overview of the integrated automation system, as if the person was on board.
This solution allows multiple users to simultaneously view different automation mimics live, from remote, enhancing remote support and guidance capabilities.
“Our collaboration with Wärtsilä ANCS has delivered a system that aligns perfectly with our automation and monitoring objectives by enhancing our ability to remotely support ship operations by providing real-time access to vital systems data,” explained James Webb, Senior Manager, Automation at Princess Cruises.
‘Sun Princess’ is the first vessel in the brand’s new ‘Sphere’ class, a new generation of cruise ships designed with technology for both sustainability and operational efficiency.
Using the NACOS Connect application, the ship is provided with enhanced shoreside guidance and systems oversight, supporting ongoing support and analysis, as well as faster incident resolution.
“As pioneers in maritime technology, we are thrilled to partner again with Princess Cruises on this project,” said Thomas Heldarskard-winnerskjold, Director, Wärtsilä ANCS.
“The NACOS Connect remote mimics application is a welcomed feature for the industry, providing monitoring access and allowing the crew to act on changes more efficiently.
“We look forward to continuing our collaboration with Princess Cruises and expanding the capabilities of our remote solutions,” he said.
In another move, Wärtsilä has signed a five-year lifecycle agreement with fellow Finnish based company, Viking Line covering the ropax ‘Viking Glory’.
The vessel has been supported by an earlier Wärtsilä agreement since its launch in 2021, and this renewal further extends and expands the partnership and benefits provided by the agreement.
Equipment covered by the agreement includes the ship’s six Wärtsilä 31DF dual-fuel engines, six Wärtsilä gas valve units (GVU’s), and two Wärtsilä LNGPac fuel storage and supply systems.
The agreement is designed to minimise unscheduled maintenance and ensure performance reliability, while providing cost predictability for budgeting purposes.
“We already have two ferries covered by Wärtsilä agreements, and we have been extremely pleased with the service and support they deliver. The ‘Viking Glory’ is one of the most environmentally sustainable vessels sailing today, and by maintaining the equipment we ensure efficiency of its operations.
“The Wärtsilä agreement represents an important contribution to improve the reliability, and this help us on our decarbonisation strategy,” said Mathias Sundberg, Viking Line’s Technical Manager.
The scope of the agreement includes maintenance planning, operational support, spare parts and services for the equipment covered, and a ‘one point of contact’ through the contract manager.
It also includes Wärtsilä’s Expert Insight digital predictive maintenance service.
“We are delighted to renew and extend our collaboration and support for the ‘Viking Glory’ and to continue our strong relationship with Viking Line.
“Both our companies are committed to de-carbonising shipping operations, and these agreements play an important role in this. By ensuring the highest levels of operational efficiency, Viking Line can continue its great work in minimising the environmental impact of its operations,” added Henrik Wilhelms, Director, Agreement Sales, Wärtsilä Marine.
Both the ropaxes ‘Viking Grace’ and ‘Viking Glory’ are also supported by Wärtsilä lifecycle agreements.
‘Viking Grace’ was the first ferry to operate with dual-fuel engines, enabling her to operate with LNG, while ‘Viking Glory’ operates with a Wärtsilä 31DF dual-fuel engine.
Both ferries run between Finland and Sweden.
