Germany-based Aida Cruises has chosen onboard communications provider, Maritime Communications Partner, Norway, to provide wireless mobile services and systems to three new cruiseships.
The contract for three consecutive newbuilds in 2010, 2011 and 2012, follows the completion of the installation of wireless cellular systems onboard Princess Cruises, Cunard Lines and P&O Australia ships.
The scope of supply covers GSM, GPRS and SMS, and complete turnkey installation including the delivery of network equipment and services, engineering and product management, network design, operation, and system integration.
Facing increasing passenger demands for wireless access, the company's newbuilds will feature next generation wireless technology, products and services.
Capt. Burkhard Mueller, Vice President Fleet Services of Aida Cruises, said that the deployment of GSM, GPRS and SMS has proved beneficial to Aida's cruise operations. He said that the passenger-driven onboard communications services and watertight roaming agreements were crucial factors to increasing passenger satisfaction.
"The cruise business is about delivery, fulfilling expectations and offering great sailing experiences. Providing affordable and enhanced wireless communications… is a driving factor to passenger satisfaction and increased shipboard call-revenue," said Captain Mueller.
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