Repowering reaps rewards
mtu distributor Pacific Power Group helped replace Bravest’s aging twin mtu 16-cylinder 396 engines with twin mtu 16-cylinder 4000 M64 engines delivering 2,680 hp. The team has been a longtime partner with Phillips to keep its catamarans running at peak performance. “We’ve been working with mtu and Pacific Power Group for quite a few years. It made sense to stick with them,” says Sommerfeld. “The new engines are quiet and smooth. They’re also Tier 3-certified, so they’re very clean burning. It’s rare you see any kind of smoke out of them, even with cold starts.” With a cruising speed of 32 knots, guests are able to see the glaciers and abundant wildlife of Prince William Sound very efficiently. As Bravest weaves through the pristine passageways and fjords, passengers may spot a variety of seabirds, bald eagles, black bears, orca whales, humpback whales, sea lions, harbor seals and sea otters. The reliability of the mtu engines provides guests with more time to experience the amazing scenery and less time on the dock.
A force of nature
From a business perspective, Phillips Cruises and Tours appreciates the uninterrupted service as well. In its inaugural season in Alaska, Bravest never missed a trip. The addition of Bravest has helped the company to nearly double capacity on its popular 26 Glacier Cruise route. On the calm waters of Prince William Sound, far away from the concrete canyons of New York City, Bravest has found new life, giving more people the opportunity to enjoy Alaska’s natural beauty.
