Well-targeted investments delivered measurable efficiency gains
Wallenius Marine showcases the potential of modern retrofit programmes with Lakeway Express.
When Wallenius Marine led the extensive retrofit of Lakeway Express at Remontowa Shiprepair Yard during the Christmas shipyard stay of 2025, the ambition was clear: help the vessel become more efficient, safer and better prepared for future operational and environmental demands.
The result was a successful upgrade programme with verified operational improvements — including:
- fuel savings of up to 23 percent at 15 knots
- improved onboard comfort and a DNV grading upgraded from Fair to Good cross several areas
- full-scale upgrade of accomodation areas
- short ROI, only 2,6 years
For shipowners facing rising fuel costs, stricter regulations and ageing fleets, the project demonstrates how targeted retrofit investments can extend vessel competitiveness and deliver measurable operational value.
A comprehensive retrofit programme
Wallenius Marine was responsible for managing the full retrofit project, including yard planning, supplier and class coordination, supervision, cost and quality control, and post-retrofit performance analysis. The project was delivered during the holiday period under a tight schedule and with reduced staffing across several suppliers and shipyard functions.
The scope included major upgrades within hydrodynamics, propulsion, bridge systems, safety systems and accommodation.
One of the key upgrades was a newly designed bulbous bow, tailored specifically to the vessel’s operating profile to reduce wave resistance and lower fuel consumption. The vessel also received:
- New high-efficiency propeller blades
- Eco Control optimisation system
- Full overhaul and upgrade of stabilisers
- New bridge and navigation systems
- Upgraded fire and engine room alarm systems
- Full-scale upgrade of 13 onboard bathrooms
Together, the upgrades improved efficiency, stability, operational safety and crew wellbeing.
Verified operational improvements
Following the vessel’s return to service, the retrofit delivered several verified results:
- 23% lower fuel consumption at 15 knots
- Increased speed with lower specific fuel consumption
- Improved DNV rating from Fair to Good across several areas such as hull and deck equipment, machinery and electrical installations, accommodation, and safety equipment.
- Improved onboard comfort and crew welfare
- Payback time estimated at 2.6 years
According to David Andreasson, Superintendent and responsible for the upgrade, the project highlights the value of well-planned retrofit investments.
“This project shows what can be achieved when upgrades are carefully tailored to a vessel’s operational profile. We combined efficiency improvements, safety upgrades and crew comfort measures in one coordinated retrofit programme — and the results exceeded expectations.”
He adds:
“Achieving both significant fuel savings and an upgraded DNV grading on a vessel with 25 years in service is a very strong result. It demonstrates that existing tonnage can continue to perform competitively with the right technical investments and project management.”
A proven alternative to newbuild investments
The Lakeway Express project demonstrates how existing vessels can be modernised to meet future demands on efficiency, sustainability and safety — while continuing to create operational value with relatively short payback time.
The outcome also highlights the potential of well-targeted retrofit investments as a way for shipowners to extend vessel competitiveness and improve performance without necessarily investing in new tonnage.
Learn more about Wallenius Marine Technical Management here
