Kongsberg’s Next-Gen Stabilizers Will Keep These New Cruise Ships Steady

Kongsberg Maritime is doubling down on its 15-year partnership with Chesapeake Shipbuilding, supplying cutting-edge Aquarius retractable stabilizers for a new fleet of ACL cruise ships. The deal underscores Kongsberg’s dominance in marine stabilization tech—and Chesapeake’s bet on smoother sailing for high-end coastal cruises.

Small Ships, Big Stability

The Aquarius stabilizers aren’t just another maritime accessory. Designed for compact vessels, they pack high-performance roll damping into a space-saving system. Key features include a single-piece high-lift fin for maximum efficiency, simplified installation to slash costs, and seamless integration with onboard monitoring networks. For ACL’s upcoming ships—where luxury and comfort are non-negotiable—these stabilizers could be the difference between a serene voyage and a queasy one.

“Kongsberg’s precision engineering and technician support are critical to our growth,” says Steven McGee, Chesapeake’s President. “Their tech lets us push boundaries.”

ACL’s Fleet Gets a High-Tech Boost

Chesapeake Shipbuilding, a veteran player with three decades of commercial ship construction, is currently building four vessels for American Cruise Lines (ACL): the American Patriot, Pioneer, Maverick, and Ranger. Slated for launch in June 2025, each 450-foot ship will host 130 guests in suites with private balconies—a far cry from the crowded megaships dominating the industry. But smaller doesn’t mean less sophisticated. Kongsberg’s stabilizers ensure these ships handle coastal and river routes with minimal roll, even in choppy waters.

“Guests expect comfort, whether they’re sailing the Mississippi or the Intracoastal Waterway,” notes Paul Crawford, Kongsberg’s Sales Director. “Our systems are engineered to deliver that.”

Why Stabilizers Matter Now

As cruise lines pivot toward intimate, destination-focused experiences, demand for advanced stabilization in smaller ships is surging. Kongsberg’s Aquarius line hits a sweet spot: robust enough for performance, compact enough for tighter hulls. For Chesapeake, the partnership isn’t just about hardware—it’s a long-term play to cement its reputation as a builder of choice for premium coastal cruisers. And with ACL’s new fleet on the horizon, smoother seas ahead seem all but guaranteed.