A&P Falmouth, Cornwall which is part of the APCL Group, has been awarded a contract with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines to carry out the next drydocking of MV Balmoral next month.
The latest contract will result in the third Fred. Olsen refit to be carried out at the Falmouth shipyard in two years with both Balmoral and Bolette previously visiting the facility. A&P Tyne and Cammell Laird (see new Mersey ‘ferry’) have also carried out significant refits of the cruise operator’s fleet in recent years.
The 1,325 (standard occupancy) passenger capacity Balmoral which is 43,537 gross tonnes represents the smallest in the fleet of four.
This significant scope of work on the cruise ship will include a full Ultra High Pressure water blast of the underwater hull and application of silicone paint system to improve fuel efficiency.
The team at A&P Falmouth will also assist Kongsberg Marine with propeller and rudder modifications to improve the vessel’s propulsive propeller performance and manoeuvrability, as well as overhauls of the propeller hubs, bow thrusters, stabilizers and main engine gearbox.
Additional works include servicing of lifeboats, davits and crane as well as overhauls of mooring winches, fans, motors and sea valves.
The signing of the new Balmoral contract took place in Liverpool between Mike Spicer, Managing Director of A&P Falmouth, and Samantha Stimpson, CEO of Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines. Lisa Grant (MCIPS), APCL Group Director of Business Development, Darren Fisher, APCL Group Chief Operating Officer and Mike Hill, Managing Director of Cammell Laird were also in attendance.
When Balmoral enters the south-west of England drydock it will undergo a comprehensive 14-day work package.
