Kongsberg Maritime has secured a contract from MKM Yachts to supply a hybrid electric propulsion and equipment package for the Scenic Ikon expedition cruise vessel.
The 203m vessel, currently under construction at the 3 Maj Shipyard in Rijeka, Croatia, is scheduled for delivery in 2027. It will be the latest addition to Scenic Cruise’s expedition fleet and the first in the series to feature Kongsberg Maritime’s Elegance Pod propulsion system.
The hybrid electric configuration is designed to enable emission-free operation in environmentally sensitive regions, such as polar areas. The vessel will be equipped with two Elegance 1230 pods, each rated at 3,340kW, using permanent magnet electric motors paired with fixed-pitch propellers.
According to Kongsberg Maritime, the propulsion system is designed to deliver low noise, high efficiency and improved maneuverability compared with conventional systems.
Hybrid power will be supported by an onboard energy storage system (ESS), allowing the vessel to operate on battery power for both propulsion and hotel loads. Additional equipment to be supplied includes bow thrusters, electric drives, retractable stabilizing fins and deck machinery.
The contract also covers an integrated navigation and control package, including dynamic positioning, maneuvering control and forward-looking sonar, as well as automation and energy management systems.
A spokesperson for MKM Yachts, Sasa Cokljat, said the selection of Kongsberg Maritime was based on its technology and experience. “Our cooperation with Kongsberg Maritime has been very positive and based on mutual professionalism and trust,” he said.
Halvard Foss, a sales director at Kongsberg Maritime, said the project reflects growing demand for cleaner propulsion solutions in the cruise sector. “With growing demand for electric propulsion and clean sailing, particularly in the cruise market, our systems are designed to offer efficiency, maneuverability and environmental benefits,” he said.
The Scenic Ikon is part of Scenic Cruise’s ongoing investment in expedition vessels designed for remote and environmentally sensitive destinations.
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