“Almost like a miracle“

Cruises is an important growing market for TUI Group. In our two-part report we describe the process in the Meyer shipyard (Turku) of converting a steel frame into a “floating hotel“.

To read the first part of our report “Almost like a miracle” click here.

Part 2

In terms of time, however, the logistical and craftsmanship activities at the shipyard take up much less time than the preparatory work. "We are planning a new cruise ship for three to four years," says Peter Heidacker, Director Newbuild at TUI Cruises. He is responsible for bringing together the many strands of the realization of such a complex project. He emphasizes: "In terms of time and budget, we have always managed to keep within the planning for all our projects - not two euros more". The start of everything is the concept for the new ship. Key data is defined: how big should the new member of the fleet be? Important details are also defined at an early set stage, such as the number of cabins and rough dimensions, for example, how big the bars and restaurants should be. "Based on such a framework, the ship is gradually developed", continues Heidacker. In the design phase, there is, among other things, a "parade of chairs" to test the style and comfort of the many hundreds of seats in the ship. "Particularly in terms of design, we have to think years ahead about what will be appropriate after the ship is delivered", explains Heidacker.

According to the Newbuild director, every cruise ship is unique and even "Mein Schiff 2" will differ in some interior areas from its already completed new sister. "We are constantly working to become more environmentally friendly and sustainable. For example in terms of energy efficiency. Overall, our new ships use around 30 percent less energy than cruise ships of comparable size."

As with the previous four newbuilds, TUI Cruises relies on an environmentally friendly ship operation and has once again implemented innovations in environmental protection: the use of modern exhaust gas technologies also leads to significantly reduced CO2 and air pollutant emissions in the newest new build. Due to the worldwide and permanent operation of these systems, Mein Schiff newbuilds are leading the industry in terms of emission reduction. Efficient on-board hotel services ensure fuel-efficient and energy-efficient use and efficient water consumption. As one of the first cruise ships, the Mein Schiff 1 has catalysts for the main and auxiliary engines. It uses more than a third less energy than comparable ships. Contributing factors include a comprehensive energy management system, an innovative light control system, a comprehensive LED concept and highly efficient air conditioning systems. Also the hydrodynamic hull shape of the ship helps to save energy. Just dispensing with minibars saves 0.33 tons of fuel and coolant every day. At the same time, the so-called waste heat from engines is utilized intensively – for example for the heating of the pools and for steam generation in the laundry. "In another project, we are currently focusing more on energy management in kitchens," Heidacker continues. The work on the new ships will basically never end. "As far as possible, we also adapt the modes that are already in service to changing modes and technical progress," emphasizes Peter Heidacker.