Rolls-Royce and Lürssen agree to collaborate on yacht refits 

Rolls-Royce and the Bremen (Germany) based shipyard group Lürssen are now working even more closely together on the refit of yachts. Rolls-Royce’s Power Systems division and Lürssen Yacht Refit & Services have signed a framework agreement that regulates the co-operation in the overhaul of mtu propulsion systems and will further improve the service for yacht customers.

Many of the world’s largest yachts are built by Lürssen, often equipped with mtu propulsion systems from Rolls-Royce. In addition to new builds, Lürssen also offers its discerning customers comprehensive refit solutions in the areas of overhaul, modernisation and conversion of yachts up to almost 200 metres long. Refits are carried out, for example, in the event of a scheduled dry docking or because a new owner would like to have the interior changed to suit his requirements. In addition, a yacht refit also offers the opportunity to equip the propulsion system with the latest technologies for sustainable operation of the ship, thus contributing to the energy transition.

The experienced Rolls-Royce technicians and the specialists at Lürssen Yacht Refit & Services have been working closely and successfully together for many years on the overhaul of mtu propulsion systems on yachts – from the engine to the mtu NautIQ ship automation system. The agreement that has now been concluded reorganises the cooperation, accelerates processes, simplifies procedures and defines common standards. This will significantly reduce the time required for overhaul work on engines and propulsion systems – mostly mtu Series 4000 engines.

The framework agreement also ensures faster and more flexible deployment of Rolls-Royce specialists at the shipyard and better availability of spare parts. At the same time, Lürssen technicians will be specially trained to carry out certain work on mtu engines in accordance with specified Rolls-Royce standards. With this package, both partners are creating the conditions to speed up the refit process and hand over the ship to its owner.

“This partnership between the two premium suppliers of yacht construction and propulsion creates unique conditions to play a major role in a highly attractive international market – and is fully in line with our strategic focus to strengthen the marine business,” said Denise Kurtulus, Senior Vice President Global Marine at Rolls-Royce Power Systems.

“Thanks to the framework agreement, our customers receive the premium service they are used to from Lürssen,” said York Ilgner, Managing Director of Lürssen Yacht Refit & Services.

Read also: Rolls-Royce driving sustainability in the superyacht industry