CASE STUDY
Technology is central – enabling seamless guest experiences, digital engagement and operational excellence. supporting robust security and privacy. This digital foundation fundamentally enhances every aspect of the guest journey, enabling consistent, tailored, and memorable experiences that rival leading land-based hospitality venues.
How did you and Insight complete the project on time despite the tight 11-month schedule?
Success depended on meticulous planning, early risk identification and close collaboration with Insight. We deployed parallel onshore and offshore teams, used pre-configured systems, and embraced modular, automated deployments. Agile project management enabled rapid adjustments, while regular stakeholder engagement ensured alignment. Leveraging Insight ' s maritime IT expertise and round-theclock support, we maintained momentum, resolved challenges proactively, and delivered a fully operational, world-class IT environment within the demanding 11-month timeframe. positions Cruise Saudi as a technology leader in the region ' s evolving and increasingly competitive cruise industry.
Jamie Turner, Global Account Director at Insight, provided us with more details.
What were the biggest technical hurdles your team faced during the AROYA’ s IT overhaul?
The AROYA project faced significant challenges in modernising a legacy cruise vessel into a digital platform. Key hurdles included integrating advanced technologies in a complex maritime environment, deploying a Hyper Converged Infrastructure, 2,000 Network Access points and over 650 EUC devices, and completing the transformation within an aggressive 11-month timeline. The project required meticulous planning and co-ordination to ensure its seamless implementation across guest and crew services.
How will the AROYA support Saudi Arabia ' s tourism goals, and what role does technology play?
AROYA directly advances Vision 2030 by positioning Saudi Arabia as a premier cruise destination. Technology is central – enabling seamless guest experiences, digital engagement and operational excellence. Sophisticated analytics inform service enhancements and marketing, while the IT platform supports localisation and cultural immersion. AROYA ' s digital capabilities set new standards for luxury and efficiency, attracting international visitors and showcasing Saudi commitment to innovation, hospitality, and global tourism leadership on a floating, hightech stage.
Do you plan to use this IT model on other ships or projects at Cruise Saudi?
Absolutely. AROYA ' s IT architecture serves as a blueprint for future vessels and projects at Cruise Saudi. The model ' s scalability and adaptability allow for rapid deployment across different ship classes and operational contexts. By standardising on this digital foundation, we streamline new rollouts, ensure consistent guest experiences and drive operational efficiencies. This approach
AROYA’ s IT architecture serves as a blueprint for future vessels and projects at Cruise Saudi.
How did you ensure the ship’ s new infrastructure was delivered on time and met Insight’ s quality standards?
Insight ensured timely delivery and quality by adopting an architecture-led framework, comprehensive planning, close collaboration with Cruise Saudi’ s IT leadership, and using proven enterprise technologies. This approach allowed for parallel workstreams across hardware deployment, software integration and user experience design. The project was delivered within the 11-month target, demonstrating Insight’ s ability to manage complex transformations at an accelerated pace.
In what ways does this project set a new benchmark for IT innovation in the maritime industry?
The AROYA transformation sets a new benchmark in maritime IT innovation by digitising guest experiences, enhancing operational efficiency, deploying scalable infrastructure and supporting sustainability and future-readiness. The ship now features mobile apps, self-service kiosks and personalised digital interactions, all integrated into a unified platform. This transformation not only redefines the cruise experience but also positions AROYA as a model for digital excellence in the global maritime sector. •
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