Lighting and audio are some of the most transformative elements of cruise ship interiors. Not only do they illuminate and provide pleasant sound, but they also play a key role in setting the tone and ambience of a space. EW Production Services (EWP) is a specialist company offering tailored solutions in consultancy, project management, commissioning and installation for entertainment, domestic systems, and media technologies on board cruise ships across the globe.
Recently, we sat down with EW Production Services to learn what goes into designing lighting systems that create an atmosphere, enhancing onboard entertainment with the right sound and lighting, and EWP’s exciting brand story.
Can you tell us about EWP and its brand history?
Formed almost ten years ago, EWP has always had its sights set on working with the marine industry. Operations Manager and business owner Paul Byrne spent most of his early adult life working on cruise ships as a technician. He quickly moved into a Production Management Role. Here he used his passion and knowledge of events to organise smooth productions and unforgettable shows. Now, on land, Paul works alongside fellow EWP members: Phil Smith, Owain Jones and Stefan Specina. Together, they provide turn-key solutions for an ever-growing list of cruise clients.
The EWP team supplies not only aesthetically pleasing solutions, but also must-have safety equipment. These include cruise ship lighting solutions, sound equipment, LED technology and safety PAGA systems and CCTV systems.
What services does EWP provide for the cruise industry?
At EWP, our knowledge, passion, and creativity in entertainment, domestic systems, and media technologies allows us to utilise modern technology and offer something new to our clients. We know how the right lighting can truly transform a space and offer an unforgettable experience for passengers. We also understand the importance of having crystal clear audio for domestic and entertainment purposes.
EWP offers many different lighting solutions for a variety of cruise ship interior spaces. We also overhaul onboard audio for emergency announcements, background music, and entertainment audio. Additionally, our team installs Public Address General Alarm (PAGA) systems to enhance onboard safety for passengers and crew.
Another service we provide for cruise ships is the installation of professional LED walls. With an LED wall, you can not only showcase advertisements for upcoming cruises, but you can also display graphics, colours and more to help set the mood and add atmosphere to any area. Our LED walls have even been used in theatres and concert halls as digital backdrops for shows. This helps to immerse the audience further.
Can you tell us about some of EWP’s biggest or most interesting projects on board cruise ships?
EW Production Services has successfully completed many projects across the world. These range from large scale marine audio and video system fittings to smaller scale cruise ship lighting fittings. We work with clients throughout the entire process, from consultation to creation, bringing experience, knowledge, and creativity to each project.
Atmospheric solutions on board Marella Dream
Among EWP’s many projects is Saga’s first new build luxury cruise ship. Here, we were responsible for the commissioning of all LES entertainment systems shipwide. The team also installed lighting that created an atmosphere and added versatility to the Orion Restaurant on board Marella Dream. Here, we installed technology that allows staff to change the colour of their focal glass dome to provide ambience.
Providing show-stopping entertainment solutions for Carnival Cruise Line
We’re extremely lucky to have experience in both the cruise and events industry. As a result, our team is equipped with both the knowledge and passion for advancing onboard entertainment. This assisted us in a recent project for Carnival Cruise Line where we designed bespoke lighting for a new show. As part of this, EWP removed the original Pyro across the Carnival Cruise Line fleet and also reprogrammed all production shows on GrandMA lighting software to include new special effects including Sparkulars!
Illuminating onboard entertainment on Marella Explorer 2
One of our most recent cruise ship lighting project was on board Marella Explorer 2. Here, one of our specialists executed a huge lighting upgrade. As part of this project, we switched old neon lighting for 5w/m blue LED tape in the ceiling and wall cavities for a mesmerising effect. As a result, visitors are greeted with glitz and glamour from the moment they enter the space. We also replaced all halogen lighting for Philips Master warm white LED lamps and replaced the lighting built into the drink table. Overall, this creates a warm, relaxed ambience.
Cruise Ship Interiors Design Expo Europe 2022 is fast approaching! Can you give us a preview of what the EWP team will be bringing to their stand this year?
With the EWP headquarters situated in the South East of England, our specialists are excited to be exhibiting at Cruise Ship Interiors Design Expo Europe this year! Taking a short break away from exciting projects, our team will be there to showcase just what we’re passionate about – the way technology can enhance the cruise experience. We’ll be showing how lighting can be both atmospheric and immersive whilst being practical and versatile. We’ll also have specialists on hand to discuss some of our high-tech CCTV products. In addition to this, our team will be on hand to share how our entertainment technology can elevate the guest experience and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Cruise Ship Interiors Design Expo Europe is Europe’s biggest cruise industry event. Learn more about this event and register here.