Cruise & Ferry Review - Autumn/Winter 2020

1 2 4 CRUI SE ORDER BOOK T hough Covid-19 has created significant difficulties for shipyards across the world, they have shown remarkable resilience to keep newbuilds progressing. Vard’s Norwegian shipyard, for example, delivered the sixth and final vessel in Ponant’s Explorer-class series, Le Jacques Cartier, on 10 July. The ship features the cruise line’s Blue Eye underwater lounge, which has two expansive windows allowing guests to see underneath the waves, and hydrophones built into the keel to capture the sounds of the sea. “These six vessels combining cutting-edge technology and respect for the environment are the symbol of a new generation of ships flying the French flag,” said Jean Emmanuel Sauvée, Ponant’s CEO. Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri will soon deliver Silversea Cruises’ Silver Moon, which the luxury cruise line will welcome into its fleet in August. At 40,700gt and with capacity to accommodate 596 passengers, Silver Moon will mirror her sister ship Silver Muse with the addition of the new Sea and Land Taste (S.A.L.T.) culinary concept of destination-based experiences. “From 2020, Silver Moon will leverage on the success of our beloved flagship, Silver Muse, to unlock immersive new travel experiences for our guests around the world,” said Roberto Martinoli, Silversea CEO. “With a range of pioneering new features that will push the boundaries of luxury travel, Silver Moon will be the most elegant ship in her class.” Costa Firenze, the second Costa Cruises’ vessel to be designed and built specifically for the Chinese market, is scheduled for delivery by Fincantieri on 30 September 2020. “We aim to bring the beauty of the Italian lifestyle Despite the disruption caused by the global pandemic, cruise ship construction projects are continuing to progress. Alex Smith highlights some of the newbuilds that will debut soon Delivering innovation Carnival’s new flagship, Mardi Gras, was floated out at Meyer Turku shipyard in January