A-ROSA SENA: Eco-Friendly River Cruising with Waste Heat Recovery
Author: Jeroen Berger • Publication date:
With the introduction of the A-ROSA SENA, the German cruise company A-ROSA takes a significant step toward sustainable tourism on Europe’s waterways. This vessel, one of the largest and most technologically advanced river cruise ships of today, was developed in collaboration with the Dutch shipbuilder Concordia Damen. Since May 2022, this environmentally friendly Rhine passenger ship has been sailing on various European inland waterways, including the Rhine in northern Germany and routes through the Netherlands. The sustainable river cruise ship combines luxury with environmental consciousness, setting new standards in green ship design. It demonstrates how passenger comfort and sustainability can go hand in hand.
With technological innovations such as a hybrid propulsion system, an advanced battery storage system, and a waste heat recovery installation, the A-ROSA SENA aims to reduce its ecological footprint. As a leading eco-conscious river cruise ship, it offers practical solutions to the challenges of green shipping and reflects the principles of corporate social responsibility (CSR).
This article highlights the energy-efficient technologies and environmental measures that distinguish the A-ROSA SENA as a forward-looking river cruise ship.
Efficient Energy Management: Practical Innovations
The A-ROSA SENA is equipped with a hybrid propulsion system that combines diesel and electric engines. This system, designed for sustainable shipping, incorporates an advanced battery storage system. By storing surplus energy and reusing it when demand is higher, the system enables peak shaving. This technique ensures that the engines operate more efficiently, resulting in lower fuel consumption and a reduction in harmful emissions, including CO2.
Another key feature of this eco-friendly river cruise ship is its hydrodynamically optimized hull. Using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), the hull shape was refined to minimize water resistance. This reduces energy demand during sailing and contributes to overall efficiency and sustainability.
A crucial innovation onboard is the waste heat recovery system, developed by our specialized partner. This system captures waste heat from exhaust gases and jacket cooling water, converting it into usable electricity. The energy is stored in batteries and reused for onboard systems and propulsion. The system reduces energy loss and enhances operational efficiency, which is vital for climate-conscious shipping.
Emissions-Free and Low-Noise: Quiet and Clean
When entering urban areas, the A-ROSA SENA can sail fully electrically, minimizing both local emissions and noise pollution. Thanks to the advanced energy storage system, which can be charged via shore power in ports, the ship can enter and leave cities emission-free and with minimal noise.
Any exhaust gases produced are treated using an SCR catalyst and particulate filters. This reduces nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions by at least 75% and removes more than 90% of particulate matter (PM), contributing to cleaner air quality and a better living environment along the waterways.
Clean Water: Responsible Wastewater Treatment
To protect the water quality of Europe’s rivers, the A-ROSA SENA is equipped with an advanced wastewater treatment system that uses membrane technology. This system filters harmful substances from wastewater, preventing them from entering the environment. The resulting sludge is responsibly disposed of by certified companies in designated ports.
Waste Reduction and Sustainable Alternatives
Waste reduction is a key component of the A-ROSA SENA’s sustainability strategy. Single-use plastics have been almost entirely replaced with reusable and sustainable alternatives. Onboard water dispensers allow guests to easily refill their glass bottles.
Additionally, the cruise line collaborates with ‘United Against Waste’ to minimize food waste. Through efficient inventory management and conscious choices in the kitchen, food leftovers are significantly reduced, contributing to a responsible and sustainable use of resources.