Tokyo-based Mitsui OSK Line is joining the cruise industry’s green revolution by putting its only cruiseship through a major refit that is expected to keep trading for at least the next five years.
The 22,500-gt Nippon Maru (built 1990), which is operated by cruise subsidiary Mitsui OSK Passenger Line (MOPAS) will undergo a 50-day refurbishment in an as-yet undisclosed shipyard starting next February.
Work to be undertaken includes replacing the ship’s auxiliary machinery and equipment with more fuel-efficient models.
The company has elected to use low sulphur fuel (LSF) rather than fit scrubbers. The switch to LSF will take place towards the end of this year.
New cabins will be built including multi-generational family cabins sleeping up to six people.
The general arrangement of public spaces such as lounges will be rearranged, while others will be extensively refurbished.
Finally, a Wi-Fi environment will be adopted throughout the ship.
The Nippon Maru was last refurbished in 2010. A company spokesman told TradeWinds that the upcoming work is designed to keep the ship in service until at least 2025.
