By
Rebecca Gibson |
This article was first published in the 2019 issue of Cruise & Ferry Interiors. All information was correct at the time of printing, but may since have changed.
In March 2019, Oceania Cruises’ Insignia hit the waves with new luxury carpets after undergoing a multimillion-dollar revitalisation as part of the OceaniaNEXT initiative. The premium quality Axminster carpets were custom-made by Ulster Carpets, a family-owned company in Northern Ireland.
“Ulster’s huge selection of colours along with its exceptional and talented design team helped to bring not just our architect’s vision, but also the entire immense project, to life,” says Franco Semeraro, senior vice president of Hotel Operations for Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises. “And it was done in record time.”
Oceania Cruises’ ships are not the only ones with bespoke carpets produced by Ulster. In fact, they adorn vessels belonging to many well-known cruise lines including Royal Caribbean International, Cunard, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Princess Cruises and Holland America Line.
By combining creative design talent with its unique, innovative PSYLO weaving technology, Ulster offers shipowners unlimited design possibilities for carpets that can be used in all areas of passenger ships – including accommodation, corridors and public areas. The company also provides complete support in the design, planning and execution of projects.
Care and attention to detail is at the core of everything Ulster does. Its International Maritime Organization-certified carpets are produced using the finest quality wool and are all made within the UK. Ulster Yarns spins the yarn in Dewsbury, England and the company weaves them into finished carpets at its headquarters in Portadown, Northern Ireland. This vertical integration allows Ulster to ensure its products are high quality – from the initial yarn to the luxurious finish.
Ulster’s bespoke products add to the sustainability story of any ship. The company is constantly reducing its carbon footprint thanks to its commitment to sustainable manufacturing. By investing in new technology, it can produce carpet that not only enhances interiors, but also minimises environmental impact.
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