In the vast, ever-evolving ocean of maritime technology, SmartSea has just dropped a monumental anchor, steering the course for the future of cruise liners. The global tech titan has been the unsung hero behind the curtain of AROYA, the Arabian Peninsula’s first-ever cruise line, and the results are nothing short of revolutionary. Let’s dive in and explore how this news might shape the future of the sector.
Back in 2023, SmartSea and its partners rolled up their sleeves and got to work, conducting a thorough assessment of AROYA’s IT infrastructure and cybersecurity systems. They didn’t just stop at a once-over; they dug deep, upgrading and securing critical systems, reinforcing the ship’s infrastructure, and ensuring it could safely accommodate everyone onboard. This was no small feat, but it was crucial to prepare the vessel for its extensive modernisation, a complete overhaul of its IT and operational systems.
The real magic happened when SmartSea integrated a wide range of technology partners. We’re talking connectivity experts, cybersecurity professionals, and specialised providers offering hotel management software. These partners played a pivotal role in delivering services like satellite connectivity, digital signage, video-on-demand, and property management systems. The goal? A seamless guest experience onboard.
One of the standout features of this transformation is the seamless connectivity. With over 2,000 access points across the ship, guests can enjoy reliable Wi-Fi connectivity, whether they’re sailing the Red Sea or the Mediterranean. But it’s not just about the Wi-Fi. Advanced cybersecurity measures protect guest data, crew operations, and communication systems. And for the guests, full integration of passenger systems means easy bookings, reservations, entertainment, food and beverage management, and onboard activities.
SmartSea didn’t just stop at the tech. They played a critical role in vendor selection and procurement, carefully choosing partners to provide cutting-edge technology solutions. Under their guidance, and in collaboration with Columbia Blue, which manages the ship’s operations, this project saw meticulous planning, budget management, legal reviews, and risk assessments.
Bilal Hussain, IT & Digitalisation Executive Director at Cruise Saudi, the Public Investment Fund (PIF) company which owns AROYA Cruises, had this to say: “AROYA is a pioneering, first-of-its-kind product and as such, we wanted to ensure an incredibly high standard across all elements of the operation. Partnering with SmartSea has enabled us to create a seamless experience behind the scenes, allowing our valuable guests to enjoy efficient Wi-Fi, easy on-board activity bookings and more. From its advanced technology to world-class facilities and impeccable on board hospitality, AROYA is setting the new standard in the global cruise industry.”
Julian Panter, CEO of SmartSea, echoed this sentiment, adding, “We are proud to continue our collaboration with Cruise Saudi and Columbia Blue to bring the vision of AROYA to life. The combination of cultural heritage, cutting-edge technology, and luxurious experiences will make AROYA a beacon of innovation in the cruise industry.”
So, what does this mean for the future of the cruise industry? Well, it’s clear that the future is smart, connected, and secure. But it’s not just about the tech. It’s about the experience. It’s about giving guests a seamless, enjoyable journey from start to finish. And it’s about setting a new standard for the industry.
SmartSea’s commitment to providing ongoing operational support, including 24/7 help desk services and continued oversight of the IT ecosystem, shows that they’re in it for the long haul. They’re not just building a cruise ship; they’re building a future.
With AROYA poised to offer passengers an unrivalled, culturally rich cruise experience, the cruise ship of the future is here. And it’s a testament to Saudi Arabia’s ambition to redefine global luxury travel. So, buckle up, folks. The future of cruising is looking bright, and it’s looking smart.
