Cruise & Ferry Interiors 2021

9 0 T he maritime industry is changing the face of public transportation. The hot, busy and noisy conditions of trains, trams and buses are transforming into spacious, light and quiet experiences onboard innovative fast ferries like Baleària’s new Eleanor Roosevelt. “When designing the ship, we wanted to create a modern interior that differed from other ferries,” says Georges Bassoul, general director of Baleària. “We felt that it was important to use all elements – accommodation, light, space and materials – to ensure our customers enjoy the experience onboard.” Bassoul says that spaciousness and distance between seats have been prioritised, and a high- tech stabilisation system has been incorporated to reduce movement. “Vibrations and noise will be minimised thanks to insulation and a floating superstructure,” he says. “The ship will also have an escalator and lift to the upper deck, both elements never before seen on a fast ferry.” Onboard, passengers can make use of a children’s crèche, a food court, two private lounges and an outdoor terrace which features two canopies and a food truck made from fibreglass in the shape of an old Mercedes vehicle. Baleària’s innovative use of glass onboard Eleanor Roosevelt accentuates the light and spacious design. For example, the Aft Bar is crowned by a glass dome and the VIP lounge – Bassoul’s favourite spot – offers passengers a panoramic view via a 180-degree smart-glass window that automatically adjusts the level of transparency depending on sun conditions. “Spanish firms Oliver Design and Jorge Belloch helped us to realise Eleanor Roosevelt’s innovative design in terms of configuration and material selection: she features custom-made REACHING NEW HEIGHTS Eleanor Roosevelt will be the first fast ferry to feature an escalator and lift. Design note: INTERIOR V IEW Baleària’s Georges Bassoul tells Elly Yates-Roberts about the operator’s new fast ferry and how spaciousness and light are setting her apart from other vessels Eleanor Roosevelt