German superyacht shipyard Lürssen and Rolls-Royce Power Systems division have entered a strategic partnership, signing a framework agreement to bolster their collaboration in the superyacht refit market. This alliance aims to focus on cooperation in overhauling mtu propulsion systems, improving service for yacht owners. 

By joining forces, the two companies intend to streamline processes for overhauling superyacht engines and propulsion systems, primarily the mtu Series 4000 engines. This collaboration is expected to significantly reduce the time required for overhaul work, providing a faster turnaround for yacht owners. 

Denis Kurtulus, senior vice president of Global Marine at Rolls-Roye Power Systems, says: “This partnership between the two premium suppliers of yacht construction and propulsion creates unique conditions for us to play a major role in a highly attractive international market — and it is fully in line with our strategic focus to strengthen the marine business.”

“Thanks to the framework agreement, our customers receive the premium service they are used to from Lürssen,” says York Iigner, managing director of Lürssen Yacht Refit & Repair services. 

Under the new agreement, Rolls-Royce specialists will enjoy a quicker and more flexible deployment at Lürssen shipyards. Simultaneously, Lürssen technicals will receive specialised training to work on mtu engines in accordance with Rolls-Royce standards.

The partnership also address the aspect of spare parts availability. By improving access to necessary components, the alliance aims to further reduce downtime during a refit. It also recognises the evolving needs of the superyacht sector – refits can now include modernisation and conversion work, as well as updates geared towards more sustainable operation. This approach aligns with the growing emphasis on environmental considerations in the wider maritime sector. 

This focus on delivering the latest technologies to the superyacht sector, enabling more sustainable operation, is part of a broader trend for Rolls-Royce. Earlier this year, the firm entered another partnership within the refit sector with the MB92 Group, helping to provide sustainable propulsion for the existing fleet. 

Most recently, Rolls-Royce signed a four-year framework agreement with Italian superyacht builder Azimut|Benetti Group, for them to deliver the first yachts in its Grande series with mtu engines next year. 

Image courtesy of Rolls-Royce mtu solutions. 

The post Lürssen and Rolls-Royce mtu agreement to enhance superyacht refit services  appeared first on Marine Industry News.