ALSTOM to build two more millennium cruise
ships for RCCL

ALSTOM, through its subsidiary Chantiers de
lAtlantique, has received confirmation of an order for
two 1,000-cabin cruise ships from Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd
(RCCL). The contract was signed in March 1998 for a series of
four ships, of which these two were originally on option.

The four Millennium class ships will be
operated by Celebrity Cruises, a subsidiary of RCCL. At 85,000
GRT (gross registered tons) and 294 metres long overall, they
will be the largest cruise ships ever built in France.

One of the most advanced features to be installed on board
the ships will be a world first - a combined cycle power
generating system using both gas and steam turbines. Besides
operating benefits and low NOx emissions, this unique system
will allow considerable weight and space gains (900 tons and
the equivalent of about 50 cabins respectively). The vessels
will also be equipped with an innovative pods
propulsion system, adjustable over 360°, which will
combine maximum manoeuvrability and powerful propulsion with
reduced noise and vibration levels.

Delivery of the four-ship series will begin in the year
2000, with completion scheduled for 2002.

The order book of ALSTOMs Marine sector now comprises
10 cruise ships, two high- speed ferries, 17 tug boats and one
seismic research vessel.