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AIDA Cruises’ AIDA Luna [pictured] has been fitted with the first element of a comprehensive filter and exhaust gas treatment system at the German shipyard Blohm + Voss during a a scheduled maintenance drydock in Hamburg.

The first part of the system – a so-called 'scrubber' - is designed to reduce sulphur oxide (SOx) emissions by around 90 percent. Further elements of the exhaust gas treatment system - which was developed by Carnival Group using a new technology that makes it possible to technically integrate all of the main cleaning stages for the first time - are due to be installed in due course.

AIDA Cruises intends to install the comprehensive filter and exhaust gas treatment system on other vessels within its fleet in the future.

During the drydock, which took place between April 25 and May 5, Blohm + Voss also carried out maintenance work on the ship's stabilizers, steering gear, body and machinery. Also, the deck floorings were replaced, upholstery was cleaned, and painting and leather treatment work carried out.

On Friday, May 9, 2014, AIDA Luna will dock at the Cruise Center Hafencity West for Hamburg Port's anniversary celebration. It will then depart on a four-day cruise to Amsterdam and London.

Image: AIDA Luna at the Blohm + Voss shipyard in Hamburg.