Carnival adopts robotic hull technology

The move marks a significant milestone for both companies and the wider cruise industry, as Carnival continues to invest in innovative technologies designed to improve operational efficiency, reduce emissions and protect marine biodiversity.

The Hull Skating Solution enables proactive cleaning while vessels remain in service, ensuring hulls stay free from marine growth that can increase fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. By maintaining an always-clean hull, the technology also helps minimise the transfer of invasive aquatic species between ports.

“Maintaining a clean hull is essential for efficient ship operations, and the Hull Skating Solution allows us to take a more proactive approach to hull maintenance,” said Jari Oinas, assistant vice president of Fuel Performance and Decarbonisation at Carnival Cruise Line.

“As we evaluate the technology aboard Carnival Pride, we see strong potential to support ship performance while advancing our long-term sustainability goals.”

The agreement extends beyond the HullSkater robotic device to include compatible hull coatings, continuous monitoring, inspections, digital performance reporting and Jotun’s always-clean hull guarantee. The company recently received independent verification from DNV confirming vessels using HSS maintain an always-clean hull with no measurable speed loss.

Stein Kjølberg, regional vice president Americas for Jotun, said Carnival’s decision demonstrated industry leadership. “Carnival is demonstrating real leadership by embracing new technology that ensures consistently clean hulls and reduced environmental impact,” he said.

“With our 100-year track record in hull performance, and our presence in the US for more than 50 years, we are proud to support an American icon that is both ambitious and forward-leaning.”

Kjølberg added: “Our clean shipping commitment is dependent on collaborations with partners who dare to innovate.”