SS/24 CONNECTED CRUISING Greg Martin of SES explains how technology can deliver smart ship operations and satisfy guests NEW LOVE John Padgett of Princess Cruises talks Sun Princess SUSTAINABILITY Kelly Craighead of CLIA discusses cruise decarbonisation
Ports of Call Kingston Midland Parry Sound Welland Canal Sarnia Sault Ste. Marie Thunder Bay Tobermory Toronto Windsor Quebec City Three Rivers Chicago Alpena Bay City Detroit Holland Houghton/Hancock Mackinac Island Manistique Marquette Muskegon Port Huron Sault Ste. Marie St. Ignace Traverse City Duluth Buffalo Clayton Rochester Cleveland Toledo Erie Bayfield Green Bay Milwaukee Burns Harbor Atlantic Ocean Oswego Toronto Mackinac Island Milwaukee Duluth Thunder Bay LAKE SUPERIOR Duluth, Minn. • Canal Park, 7.25 miles of Lakewalk and 5 top attractions • Glennsheen Mansion and Gardens, tours and intrigue • All-freshwater aquarium LAKE ERIE Cleveland, Ohio • Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the city’s No. 1 attraction • Cleveland Museum of Art, great for groups • Trolley tours through the city LAKE HURON Mackinac Island, Mich. • Luxurious Grand Hotel with public dining • Horse drawn carriage rides • Rent bikes and lap the island LAKE MICHIGAN Muskegon, Mich. • Heritage Landing ship dock, craft breweries, markets, public art • Silversides Submarine Museum with beach coastline • Historic district, museums, art and architecture tours Milwaukee, Wisc. • Harley Davidson Museum, a global icon and No. 1 city pick • German beer and bratz • Milwaukee Public Market and Riverwalk Green Bay, Wisc. • Lambeau Field and Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame, top attractions • Green Bay Botanical Garden • New public market on Fox River Chicago, Ill. • Navy Pier’s public art, shopping and dining • Chicago Architecture River Cruise, 2021 top attraction • Millennium Park and its interactive fountains and gardens
For information on transiting the locks and channels of the St. Lawrence Seaway or other Great Lakes destinations, contact: REBECCA YACKLEY Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation (202) 297-9448 • rebecca.yackley@dot.gov Explore the Great Lakes THE GREAT LAKES ST. LAWRENCE SEAWAY SYSTEM is a shared U.S.- Canadian waterway. Pristine rivers, lakes and channels make the Great Lakes a cruising destination that strikes the perfect balance between ocean travel and riverboating. The awe-inspiring experience includes traversing manmade locks that create more than 2,000 miles of inland cruising. This growing hub for luxury cruises includes the clear water of the St. Lawrence River and all five freshwater Great Lakes. Picturesque ports are rich with historic, maritime and Midwestern charm. Prime attractions are closely located to berthing space. Unique onshore experiences immerse passengers in local history, art, architecture and native cultures. Port communities on the Great Lakes go out of their way to welcome cruise ships and their passengers as they sail in throughout the spring, summer and fall. Your passengers won’t want to miss the unexplored experience on the freshwater seas. • About 1/3 of cruise vessels built today carry fewer than 400 passengers, providing a more intimate experience. • Ships in the St. Lawrence Seaway are small enough to navigate the locks and channels, but large enough for superior handling and stability in rough seas. • Maximum ship dimensions are length 225.50 m, beam 23.77 m and depth 8.08 m. SHIP FACTS
Webuild for beyond. sunstoneships.com Photo: Tyson Mayr Whether the destination is to the remotest parts of the planet or to the cultural capitals of the world, SunStone provides all-in-one B2B solutions for small ship cruising on long-term or seasonal charters in cold and warm waters. Our clients and partners depend on SunStone’s commitment to environmental sustainability and pioneering initiatives to build a class of expedition vessels that delivers efficiency, safety, and comfort.
CONTRIBUTORS CFR would like to thank all of those who contributed to this issue, including: Gianpaolo Dalla Vedova Gianpaolo began his career as a naval architect and has worked for Lloyd’s Register for over 20 years. He is currently the firm’s strategic business partner and country lead for Italy. Susan Parker Susan has written about the shipping industry since 1990 and was editor of Lloyd’s Cruises International until 2008. She is now a freelance cruise shipping specialist. Yohandel Ruiz A founding partner of interior design firm Studio DADO, Yohandel has an undergraduate degree in interior architecture from Florida International University in Miami, Florida Michele Witthaus Michele is a former editor of Cruise & Ferry Review. Now freelance, she writes about passenger shipping and ports with a particular focus on maritime sustainability. SS/24 At an International Maritime Organization (IMO) briefing in London in February 2024, Arsenio Dominguez, the organisation’s new secretary general, outlined priorities for his term in office: safety, decarbonisation, digitalisation and people. Succeeding the highly regarded Kitack Lim – whose many achievements included the landmark adoption of the 2023 IMO Strategy on Reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Ships – expectations of the tenth elected secretary general are high. Having served as Lim’s chief of staff for the last eight years, Dominguez knows better than most what it will take to effect change. Cruise Lines International Association and Interferry’s leadership will be keenly following these early months of Dominguez’s tenure. Both organisations are already tightly aligned with the priorities he laid out, some of which are discussed in Kelly Craighead and Mike Corrigan’s contributions to this issue, starting on pages 74 and 79 respectively. While sustainable maritime interiors is a niche that currently resides outside the scope of these three organisations, Cruise & Ferry continues to champion improvements in environmental performance for ship interiors. Our report on page 148 is intended to advance progress towards a consistent method of measuring product sustainability. Elsewhere in this issue, you’ll find plenty to satisfy cravings for exploration. You can tour Sun Princess in our keynote with Princess Cruises’ John Padgett on page 11, embark on an adventure with the Expedition Cruise Network on page 48, or seek out authentic destination experiences on page 172. And if you are more a digital dweller than print purist, you may have noticed that we have given the Cruise & Ferry website (at www.cruiseandferry.net) a comprehensive makeover. Our new design makes it easier for you to find, read and enjoy our content, on all devices. You can sign up for our monthly newsletter and download digital versions of all our magazines there too. Jon Ingleton Executive Editor, Cruise & Ferry Review Maritime priorities Foreword 3
CONTENTS 5 11 Ferry Business 79 Interferry is prioritising sustainability and safety, says Mike Corrigan 82 Stena Line’s three female leaders explain how the ferry operator is creating a more inclusive workplace 86 BC Ferries’ Nicolas Jimenez tells CFR how the Canadian operator is reshaping its coastal ferry services 88 Paavo Nõgene reveals how Tallink Grupp is charting a clean course for its fleet 90 New Zealand’s Bluebridge Cook Strait Ferries is prioritising efficiency and customer experience, says Will Dady of StraitNZ 94 Michael Grey considers how the ferry industry has been able to successfully increase the scale of its vessels Keynote 11 John Padgett of Princess Cruises reveals how the design innovations and extensive culinary and entertainment offerings onboard Sun Princess will transform the guest experience and position the brand as an industry leader Marketwatch 20 A collection of news from ship operators, ports and destinations and other businesses operating in the cruise and ferry sectors, including an update on EWE Cruises’ first expedition ship Cover story 36 Greg Martin explains how SES’s industry-first connectivity solutions are helping cruise brands to optimise smart ship operations and deliver superior guest and crew experiences Cruise Business 42 Thatcher Brown discusses how new luxury brand Four Seasons Yachts will exceed the expectations of its discerning guests when it debuts its first-ever cruise vessel in 2025 48 Eight senior executives from expedition cruise lines share how they are delivering safe, adventurous and environmentally friendly voyages 59 Expedition cruise lines must consider enhancing safety, sustainability and flexibility of their expedition ships, says KUND E. HANSEN’s Finn Wollesen Petersen 60 Gus Antorcha details how Holland America Line is building on 150 years of success to achieve an even brighter future 63 Resorts World Cruises’ Michael Goh outlines why the brand’s understanding of the Asian cruise market is driving early success 66 Gerry Larsson-Fedde shares how Hurtigruten will build its first zeroemission cruise ship by 2030 68 Katy Berzins explains why TUI River Cruises is prioritising flexibility for the launch of its first newbuild vessel 71 SunStone Maritime Group is continuing to expand, say Niels-Erik Lund and Carsten Lund 74 CLIA’s Kelly Craighead discusses the industry’s sustainability goals and the cruise passengers of the future 42
TURNING GREAT DESIGNS INTO SIGNS. Decorative signage · Wayfinding signage · Cabin signage Public area signage · Funnel logos and ship names · Artwork and wall graphics · Braille and tactile signage · IMO safety signs Electrical emergency exit signs · Low Location Lighting www.marahrens.com
7 CONTENTS 118 Building and Refurbishment 96 CFR showcases the latest notable orders for new passenger ferries 100 The cruise order book contains a range of large, luxury and river cruise ships due to launch in 2024 and beyond 105 SRC Group’s Methanol Superstorage solution could help cruise operators to switch to greener marine fuel 106 CFR highlights how ship operators are investing in interior refurbishments and technical upgrades in a refit report 112 Navantia completed projects on 14 cruise ships in 2023 and is set for a similarly busy 2024 113 Stephen Casey of Incat Tasmania discusses the shipbuilder’s decarbonisation strategy 114 Aros Marine has refurbished ForSea’s Tycho Brahe to improve functionality and aesthetic appeal 116 Fiona Nevin outlines MJM Marine’s upcoming work onboard Royal Caribbean International’s Utopia of the Seas and Aroya Cruises’ Manara 117 Fincantieri is exploring fuels, technologies and designs as it commits to building more sustainable ships Marine Operations 118 Captain John Lloyd shares how The Nautical Institute is helping seafarers prepare for the future 122 Interferry’s Oliver Weiss explains why it has partnered with other organisations to form the new Africa Ferry Safety Seminar 124 Hiroyuki Yamada details how the International Maritime Organization plays a critical role in protecting ships and seafarers 127 Andrew Brown discusses the benefits of Maxicaster’s onboardentertainment-as-a-service solution 128 Gianpaolo Dalla Vedova of Lloyd’s Register discusses how nuclearpowered ships could help the cruise industry to decarbonise 131 An insight into how Rescompany’s web-based, cloud-ready solutions meet the cruise industry’s evolving needs 133 Dr Arthur Diskin shares why AP Companies is now offering medical appointments in ports for passengers and crew members 134 Columbia Group shares how combining its brands into COLUMBIA blue will help it deliver more efficient operations 114 122 134
Cruise & Ferry is proud to partner with the following organisations to support and promote their global visions and objectives www.onecaribbean.org | www.cruising.orgen-gb | www.expeditioncruisenetwork.com www.interferry.com | www.ifiworld.org | www.oceancouncil.org | en.wtcf.org.cn £24.00 Published by Tudor Rose Tudor House, 6 Friar Lane Leicester LE1 5RA Tel: +44 116 2229900 www.tudor-rose.co.uk ISSN 2635-0475 (Print) ISSN 2635-0483 (Online) Printed in Great Britain by The Manson Group. © 2024 Tudor Rose Holdings Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be stored or transmitted or reproduced in any form or by any means, including whether by photocopying, scanning, downloading onto computer or otherwise without the prior written permission from Tudor Rose Holdings Ltd. Views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher. Acceptance of advertisements does not imply official endorsement of the products or services concerned. While every care has been taken to ensure accuracy of content, no responsibility can be taken for any errors and/or omissions. Readers should take appropriate professional advice before acting on any issue raised herein. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject advertising material and editorial contributions. The publisher assumes no liability for the return or safety of unsolicited art, photography or manuscripts. Executive editor Jon Ingleton Editor Rebecca Gibson Editorial team Alice Chambers, Amber Hickman, Richard Humphreys, Laura Hyde, Alex Smith Editorial contributors Rebecca Barnes, Michael Grey, Philippe Holthof, Justin Merrigan, Susan Parker, Michele Witthaus Ferry industry advisor Simon Johnson, Shipshape Consulting Account managers Teala Francis, Kimberley McLean, Shelly Palmer, Benedict Pask, Ben Surtees-Smith Publisher Toby Ingleton Production manager Stuart Fairbrother Design Bruce Graham, Libby Sidebotham, Dhanika Vansia Cover image Princess Cruises Website development Chris Jackson Advertise info@cruiseandferry.net Subscribe subscribe@tudor-rose.co.uk www.cruiseandferry.net/subscriptions to free digital editions of our suite of publications for the passenger shipping industry at www.cruiseandferry.net/subscribe Subscribe
9 CONTENTS Onboard Experience 136 CFR highlights how cruise and ferry lines are elevating the dining experience and providing memorable moments 146 Dietmar Wertanzl shares how Anglo-Eastern Leisure Management is striving to improve the guest experience 148 CFR asks supporters of the SMI Declaration which sustainability criteria should be prioritised during newbuild and refurbishment projects 156 Tillberg Design of Sweden’s Helena Sawelin discusses how the maritime interiors sector can achieve its sustainable design ambitions 160 Dave Byrne and James Hobbs share how Vistona exceeds client expectations 162 Yohandel Ruiz describes how Studio DADO created ‘whispering luxury’ on Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Grandeur 164 Marahrens Group’s Jan-Christian Hashagen outlines how his family’s business has catered for maritime signage needs over the past 75 years 166 De Jorio Group’s expansion into land-based design could influence its approach to cruise ship projects, says Marco De Jorio 167 Scott Lundmark of Adventure Golf & Sports discusses its newest mini golf course on Royal Caribbean International’s Icon of the Seas 169 Sourcetoad’s 2024 Cruise Mobile Apps Annual Report highlights the latest online app trends 170 Semra Aycicek explains how she aims to make a mark on the industry after rebranding Harmony Marine Solutions Ports and Destinations 172 CFR highlights some of the immersive cultural experiences on offer in ports and destinations worldwide 186 Carnival Cruise Line’s Ugo Savino shares how the brand manages 5,000 annual sailings whilst delivering brand satisfaction 190 Mehmet Kutman at Global Ports Holdings calls upon the industry to work together to achieve carbonneutral cruising Europe 192 Cruise Network Northern Norway and Svalbard 194 Orkney Harbours 196 Cruise Wales Mediterranean 198 Gibraltar Tourist Board Asia 201 Wallem Ship Agency 202 Kyoto Maizuru Port 204 Hong Kong Tourism Board North America 206 Port Everglades 208 Port of San Diego 209 Vancouver Fraser Port Authority South America 210 Falkland Islands Tourist Board Caribbean 212 Caribbean Tourism Organization 214 South Pacific Cruise Alliance 172 212 136
PortMiami.biz 305.347.4800 Cruise Capital of the World We Cruising
11 A new shining star John Padgett of Princess Cruises shares with Rebecca Gibson how the design innovations and extensive culinary and entertainment offerings onboard Sun Princess will transform the guest experience and position the brand as an industry leader First aired in 1977, ‘The Love Boat’ focused on the lives of fictional crew members working onboard a cruise ship and quickly became one of the highest-rated prime-time TV shows in the USA. It was also widely credited with introducing millions of viewers to the concept of contemporary cruise vacations and made Princess Cruises – whose ships had a starring role – a household name. Today, almost 50 years after the pilot show was filmed onboard its original Sun Princess ship, Princess is inviting travellers to come aboard and set course for a real-life adventure on its new “next-level love boat”. Named in honour of its predecessor, the 4,300-guest Sun Princess is the first of the brand’s 177,882gt Sphere-class ships and began sailing for the first time 28 February 2024 after it was delivered by Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri. “Sun Princess is the most impressive, luxurious and stunning love boat ever created, offering an array of exciting new entertainment venues, next-level dining, extraordinary food and beverage experiences, multigenerational activities, and sensational staterooms and suites,” says John Padgett, president of Princess. “The vessel has been specifically designed with the future in mind and will have a transformational impact, as KEYNOTE “Love, exciting and new Come aboard, we’re expecting you… The Love Boat promises something for everyone Set a course for adventure…” John Padgett (front row, left) with the captain (front row, right) of Sun Princess and the first guests to board the new ship. Top: The Piazza will be one of the most popular spaces onboard Sun Princess Photo: James Morgan, Getty Images for Princess Cruises
Skagway Anchorage Hubbard Glacier Glacier Bay Sitka Juneau Ketchikan Prince Rupert Vancouver Astoria Eureka Santa Barbara San Francisco Monterey Los Angeles San Diego Ensenada Victoria portseattle.org www.portseattle.com/cruise With three shore power cruise berths, a natural deep water harbor, award-winning airport, and a vibrant tourism economy, Seattle is perfectly positioned as the largest cruise port on the West Coast. SEATTLE Seattle LEARN MORE
13 will its sister ship, Star Princess, when it debuts in summer 2025.” Iconic interiors Designed to “simultaneously embrace Princess heritage while boldly pressing into the future with iconic, elegant and pure lines unique to the brand”, the new Sphere-class ships will “elevate and maximise” the guest experience. “We have retained a uniquely Princess style that is progressive yet classic,” says Padgett. “People will know Sun Princess is a Princess ship the moment they see it, but they’ll also immediately see it is next level on every dimension. For example, commonly used ship designs contain guests inwardly, but we have introduced more balconies and shifted interior public area spaces outwards on Sun Princess. Now, the ship delivers more memorable vantage points to take in the stunning destinations and ocean vistas.” Princess collaborated with a broad team of expert designers and engineers to develop the ship. They included longstanding partners that have decades of cruise design experience, such as Jeffrey Beers and Tillberg Design of Sweden, as well as others that had never worked in the sector. “Our new partners are some of the most respected designers in their fields and we leaned into their expertise to create great spaces our guests would love,” says Padgett. “We shared what has worked well on our other ships but also gave them the freedom to offer fresh perspectives on what we could do that had not been done before.” Apple Store designer iCrave created The Dome, which is in the forward section of the ship above the bridge. It is a multilevel, multipurpose entertainment space covered by the first glass-enclosed geodesic dome on a cruise ship. “The Dome is inspired by the terraces of Santorini in Italy and is home to an indoor/outdoor pool and unique threedeck high water feature during the day,” says Padgett, noting that the space is climate controlled. “At night, the pool becomes a stage, and we use lighting to completely transform the space into an entertainment venue with a South Beach, Miami, vibe. This is where we host amazing aerial performances created in partnership with Cirque Eloize.” “ Sun Princess is the most impressive, luxurious and stunning love boat ever created” KEYNOTE Multipurpose entertainment space The Dome is covered by the first glass-enclosed geosodic dome on a cruise ship
Calling All Cruise Ships & River Boats: Miniature Golf & Game Court FUN! Adventure Awaits! How to start: Supply CAD deck plan & explore the possibilities! Bunkers & Bumps™ 4-hole mini golf / putting course featuring rolling terrain and faux sand bunkers on Princess Emerald at dry dock in Brest, France. Flat, rectangular turf in upper left is multi-use court for bocce ball, bean bag toss or croquet. Theme elements of undersea creatures on the RCI Wonder of the Seas mini golf course are both visually appealing and obstacles for play Shuffleboard court on Carnival Elation As the global leader of Mini Golf and Game / Sport Court design, we are dedicated to creating unique and innovative recreation for any deck space and ship demographic. AGS passenger activities provide 24/7 guest enjoyment with an outlet for socialization and a sporting competition. Our products are eco-friendly, low maintenance, wheelchair accessible allowing entertainment options for your guests to create lasting memories. • New builds & revitalizations • Any space, theme, or budget • Durable, lightweight patented modular system • Excellent drainage for quick-dry, no-mess setup • Proprietary anchoring technology • Installation at shipyard, dry dock, or at sea • Cruise ship logistics-knowledgeable crew A Global Leader in Miniature Golf & Game Court Design/Installation U.S. 888 725-4FUN (4386) • (231) 922-8166 Traverse City, MI | Chicago | Miami | Venice, FL AGSGolfAndSports.com
15 Another impressive space is The Piazza, a three-deck-high zone at the heart of the ship that serves as the gateway to many of the dining, entertainment and activity venues. It is built within a glass sphere created by Eckersley O’Callahan, marking its first cruise ship design project. “Our signature Princess Piazza has progressed from being a multifaceted gathering space to a fully capable theatrical entertainment space onboard Sun Princess,” says Padgett. “At the centre is a movable LED screen that can deliver live entertainment programming. The glass sphere spans all three decks of The Piazza and six guest accommodation decks, forming an iconic architectural feature that offers a suspended space to sit and enjoy ocean views in every direction.” Padgett predicts The Arena will become another guest favourite. “It is arguably the most technologically advanced entertainment venue at sea,” he says. “The stage can be reconfigured to host performances in the round, keyhole stage or traditional proscenium theatre productions. There are no pillars in the venue, so all seats offer great views in all configurations.” Other notable public spaces include the largest casino in the Princess fleet, the two-storey Lotus Spa, dedicated areas for young passengers, and the three-deck family activity zone called Park19. “Sun Princess offers guests more entertainment options and opportunities for rejuvenation, creating an unforgettable cruise experience that is second to none,” says Padgett. Sleeping in style and comfort Princess has reimagined guest accommodation for Sun Princess, which offers 2,157 staterooms (including 50 suites and 100 connecting rooms) and more balconies than any other ship in the fleet. Highlights include the new Reserve Collection Mini Suites, resortstyle Reserve Cabana staterooms with a balcony and private outdoor cabana, and the Signature Collection suites. Guests choosing the latter have exclusive access to a restaurant, lounge and a sun deck in a private area of the Sanctuary. “The reimagined accommodations cater to the individual preferences and needs of every guest, ensuring a comfortable and luxurious stay onboard,” says Padgett. Embarking on a culinary odyssey Princess has “raised the bar on culinary excellence” onboard Sun Princess, says Padgett. “The ship has an unrivalled collection of premium culinary options from renowned chefs and celebrity collaborators, all made with ingredients sourced from high-end purveyors, allowing guests to embark on a gastronomic journey like no other.” In total, the ship will offer 30 dining venues, bars and lounges. Some are Princess favourites that have been revamped for Sun Princess, such as the Crown Grill steakhouse, Sabatini’s Italian trattoria, and the World Fresh KEYNOTE The new Signature Collection suites will be the most luxurious accommodation on the ship
powered by Cape Town Mossel Bay Port Elizabeth East London Durban Richards Bay SOUTH AFRICA BOTSWANA NAMIBIA MOZAMBIQUE
17 Marketplace. Others have been designed exclusively for the ship. For example, Princess has collaborated with Italian butcher Dario Cecchini to open The Butcher’s Block by Dario, where guests dine at a large, shared family-style table. “This restaurant serves the finest cuts of meat in an unforgettable atmosphere,” says Padgett. “Meanwhile, sushi master Makoto Okuwa has crafted playful and exquisitely presented dishes that pay homage to Japanese traditions in the exclusive Makoto Ocean. Guests can also visit Princess’s first teppanyaki restaurant, Umai Teppenyaki, where world-class cuisine intertwines with captivating performance as talented culinary artists prepare dishes right before their eyes.” Princess’s head of culinary arts and master chef Rudi Sodamin has developed several new dining concepts for Sun Princess too. He created menus for the new three-storey main dining room Horizons and curated The Catch by Rudi, a seafood restaurant designed to “showcase the ocean’s treasures”. Sodamin also crafted a seven-course luxury menu for boutique restaurant Love by Britto, which features artwork and interiors designed and inspired by Brazilian artist Romero Britto. “Love by Britto is an artistic-inspired experience designed to celebrate love and the fusion of senses,” says Padgett. “Britto’s world-renowned bold, vibrant and playful style and its bespoke fusion with Princess’s creativity makes the venue completely unique.” Another notable highlight is ‘Spellbound by Magic Castle’, the latest of Princess’s ‘Extraordinary Experiences’ offerings. Small groups of guests will dine in an exclusive area of the Horizons dining room before being escorted to the hidden Spellbound Bar, where Magic Castle-sponsored magicians perform illusions in themed rooms as waiters serve “theatrical” cocktails. “Our collaboration with the famed Hollywood icon Magic Castle offers a multisensory journey into the world of illusion, complemented by delectable dishes and mesmerising cocktails,” says Padgett. “With 30 inviting restaurant and bar venues, as well as exceptional new dining experiences curated by renowned experts, guests are treated to a diverse and exquisite culinary experience.” Personalised luxury Like all Princess ships, Sun Princess will offer the MedallionClass experience, which was developed by Padgett when he “ Preserving and protecting our planet for future generations is a top priority for Princess” KEYNOTE The new Horizons dining room will offer menus curated by Princess’s master chef, Rudi Sodamin Photo: James Morgan, Getty Images for Princess Cruises
FUEL FOR THOUGHT Methanol for Passenger Ships Expert insights into the future of alternative fuels Download our report today Scan the QR code or visit Lr.org/fft-passenger-methanol
19 first joined the brand’s parent company, Carnival Corporation, as chief experience and innovation officer. The experience is powered by medallions worn by guests that connect to thousands of sensors as they move throughout the ship. This data is shared with Princess’s patented technology platform to power every onboard experience. “Our technology is unique in the travel industry and enables real-time service personalisation for every guest at any time at any scale,” says Padgett. “On-demand individualised services like these are unparalleled in the big ship space.” Environmentally conscious cruising Sun Princess is the first LNG-powered vessel in the Princess fleet and is also equipped with several other technologies to minimise its environmental impact. It has an advanced wastewater treatment system; desalination and reverse osmosis systems so it can produce up to 90 per cent of the fresh water used onboard; and extensive recycling, food dehydration and other systems to significantly reduce waste. “Preserving and protecting our planet for future generations is a top priority for Princess and Carnival Corporation,” says Padgett. “Sun Princess will progress our emissions reductions by decreasing relative energy and fuel consumption through the use of LNG fuel, LED lighting, HVAC system automation, a hull air lubrication system and advanced hull coatings.” Elevating the Princess cruise experience Sun Princess debuted with a 10-day ‘Grand Mediterranean’ roundtrip from Rome, Italy, to Barcelona, Spain. The ship will continue providing “exciting new choices” in the Mediterranean with departures from Rome, Barcelona, and Athens in Greece, until October 2024, when it will reposition to North America sail Caribbean itineraries from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. It will return to the Mediterranean in spring 2025. “Sun Princess will further galvanise Princess’s global brand positioning,” says Padgett. “It will transport guests to marquee ports worldwide, while offering sweeping vistas from various onboard vantage points, creating a sense of adventure and connection to both the ocean and the destinations that is unmatched by our competitors.” Now it is sailing, Padgett expects the ship to set new standards for both Princess and the wider industry. “Sun Princess has been meticulously crafted to raise the guest experience to unprecedented heights,” he says. “Our focus on innovative design and sustainable technologies showcases our commitment to raising the experiential bar with unparalleled luxury, variety, personalisation and value. The combination of iconic spaces, global adventures, culinary excellence, luxurious accommodations and exceptional amenities elevates the guest experience to an entirely new level and sets Princess apart as an industry leader that offers a cruise vacation like no other.” KEYNOTE The Arena can be arranged in three different stage configurations, making it possible to host a range of different productions
MARKETWATCH New brand EWE Cruises to build first expedition ship EWE Cruises has partnered with naval architect Deltamarin and design firm Tillberg Design of Sweden (TDoS) to develop its first expedition cruise vessel. The group is working in collaboration with the Chinese Polar Guide Association to build a 17,000gt vessel with capacity for 200 passengers, which will be designed to operate in both the polar and tropical regions of the globe. The yet-to-be-named vessel will have an optimised hull design and will be equipped with numerous green technologies to enable it to operate sustainably. These will include an engine that can operate using biodiesel fuel, high-efficiency equipment with waste heat recovery capabilities, and an advanced waste treatment system to ensure zero discharge in sensitive areas. These measures will enable the ship to comply with international requirements for environmental protection. “We will continue to explore available options for reducing onboard food waste by installing more efficient galley equipment; we’re in discussion with suppliers on this,” said Eric Kwok, chief development officer at The operator has partnered with Deltamarin and Tillberg Design of Sweden to develop the vessel, which will be targeted at the Chinese market, says EWE Cruises’ Erik Kwok 20 EWE Cruises is working with Deltamarin, Tillberg Design of Sweden and the Chinese Polar Guide Association on the new vessel
21 EWE. “We also plan to look at how we can reduce single-use plastics and invest in alternative fuels. Plus, we’re concerned about light pollution in the Antarctic region, so will ensure we can ‘dim’ the lights onboard at night. This will also prevent native birds accidently colliding with the ship.” In addition, EWE will ensure that activities offered to passengers in the Antarctic region “will not have a negative impact on the environment”, said Kwok, adding that the brand will also explore how to support conservation efforts in the regions it visits. EWE plans to provide a dedicated service for Chinese or Asian passengers, as the region has a “huge potential market” for expedition cruising. In keeping with its name, which stands for ecology, wellness and education, EWE aims to form strategic partnerships with local communities, conservation organisations and cultural institutions to offer immersive and authentic experiences for passengers. The brand also hopes to incorporate virtual reality experiences, augmented reality tours, and advanced onboard amenities to enhance the overall guest experience. “We hope to be the brand providing an exquisite and luxurious speciality service for Chinese and Asian passengers,” said Kwok. “We plan to use our core concepts of ecology, wellness and education in all our products. In the future, we hope to explore new destinations, particularly in remote or less-travelled regions, to offer unique and exclusive experiences to travellers. We also hope to offer customisable itineraries and personalised services catering to a diverse range of traveller preferences.” Iina Forsblom, partner and cruise design director at TDoS, said: “The EWE project represents a new approach to expedition cruising for the Asian market. The ship will be a frontrunner both in design and in operations.” “ We hope to be the brand providing an exquisite and luxurious speciality service for Chinese and Asian passengers” The vessel, which will have capacity for 200 passengers, will be designed to operate in both the polar and tropical regions
22 MARKETWATCH 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 29.7 4.8 20.4 31.5 36.0 37.2 38.5 39.5 5.8 Thirty-six million people will take an ocean cruise in 2024, according to Cruise Lines International Association’s (CLIA) State of the Cruise Industry report. CLIA’s research showed that 31. million passengers took an ocean cruise in 2023, surpassing pre-pandemic figures. It also expects numbers to rise to nearly 40 million per year by 2027. “A holiday at sea offers something for everyone,” said Andy Harmer, managing director of CLIA UK and Ireland. “The word is out as we are seeing more people than ever interested to try out a cruise for the first time.” The report also states that the industry will need to attract four million new-to-cruise travellers to meet the increase in global cruise ship capacity projected from 2023 (644,000 lower berths) to 2025 (703,000). CLIA predicts steady rise in ocean cruise passenger numbers from 2024 Interferry is to focus on improving domestic ferry safety, environmental sustainability and member collaboration as part of its new ‘All Aboard’ strategy for 2024-2026. The association will develop a mentorship programme for new members, as well as continuing to diversify its board of directors to better reflect the 1,200 individuals from its more than 270 member organisations, which represent 40 countries. “All Aboard builds off our current plan and its many successes, while at the same time looking to provide greater value to our membership, add more resources in our regulatory/public affairs area and, most importantly, further our commitment to improving ferry safety in the developing world,” said Mike Corrigan, CEO of Interferry. Read more from Mike Corrigan on page 79 Interferry to focus on safety, sustainability and collaboration Photo: Unsplash/Isaac Struna Ocean-going cruise passengers (millions) Source: CLIA passenger data 2019-2021 and CLIA Cruise Forecast/Toursim Economics Forecast Actual
23 Royal Caribbean International officially inaugurated the world’s largest cruise ship, Icon of the Seas, in Miami, Florida, in January 2024. Argentina and Inter Miami footballer Lionel Messi named the ship and bestowed safekeeping onto the vessel by smashing a ceremonial bottle of champagne on the hull. The event was hosted by four-time Emmy award-winner Mario Lopez in AquaDome, one of the ship’s eight ‘neighbourhoods’. Royal Caribbean christens Icon of the Seas in Miami SOVEREIGN OF THE SEAS 2,850 passengers 73,529gt | 268 metres length VOYAGER OF THE SEAS 4,000 137,276gt | 311 metres NAVIGATOR OF THE SEAS 4,000 139,999gt | 311 metres FREEDOM OF THE SEAS 4,375 156,271gt | 338 metres OASIS OF THE SEAS 6,699 226,838gt | 360 metres HARMONY OF THE SEAS 6,687 226,963gt | 362 metres WONDER OF THE SEAS 7,084 236,857gt | 362 metres ICON OF THE SEAS 7,600 250,800gt | 365 metres Royal Caribbean International’s Icon of the Seas has become the world’s largest passenger ship. It is one of many record-breaking ships the Miami-based brand has launched. Others include: Royal Caribbean’s record breakers 1988 1998 2002 2006 2009 2016 2022 2024 TVV Marine Lighting illuminates Icon TVV Marine Lighting provided various lighting products for Royal Caribbean International’s Icon of the Seas. The project was the biggest to date for the Finnish company, which designs and manufactures custom-made marine lighting solutions using sustainable materials. “We are honoured to be a part of this iconic creation,” said Aldona Mäkinen, CEO of TVV Marine Lighting. “The design work started a few years before the project itself and our commitment to sustainability, innovation and excellence has been appreciated throughout.” Photo: Royal Caribbean International
24 MARKETWATCH Global Ports Holding marks 20 years in the cruise industry Photo: Global Ports Holding Tourism consulting firm Lemoneight has partnered with Belize Tourism Board to provide customised skills training to professionals working in the cruise sector in Belize for a third consecutive year. Lemoneight has delivered the Elevate Ambassador training programme in partnership with the tourism board since 2022, targeting frontline staff, public sector employees, and managers and leaders across all tourism sectors. To date, it has hosted over 3,000 participants. “Increasing the training investment in Belize has significantly strengthened the capacity of the workforce,” said Anthony Mahler, Belize’s Minister of Tourism. “The various trainings have impacted the tourism product and the quality of guest experience to each guest.” Lemoneight to train cruise tourism professionals in Belize Photo: Lemoneight Global Ports Holding (GPH) is to commemorate two decades of cruise port operations in 2024 at Seatrade Cruise Global, in Miami, Florida, in April. According to GPH chairman and CEO Mehmet Kutman, this milestone underscores the company’s “unwavering commitment to operational excellence and collaborative partnerships”. In future, the company aims to “redefine the future of cruise port operations” and focus on sustainability. “We are thrilled to commemorate this significant milestone alongside our valued cruise industry partners,” said Kutman. “As we reflect on the past two decades of success, we are more determined than ever to continue driving innovation and excellence in cruise port operations.” Read more about GPH’s operations on page 190 Meyer Werft floats out Silversea’s Silver Ray Shipbuilder Meyer Werft has floated out Silversea Cruises’ Silver Ray at its shipyard in Papenburg, Germany. Workers at the shipyard cleaned Silver Ray’s hull before flooding the dock with approximately 100,000 cubic metres of water dock over four hours. Two tugboats then repositioned the 728-guest ship from the construction hall into the neighbouring harbour basin, where the final outfitting phase will continue. Silver Ray is scheduled to enter service in June 2024 and will spend its inaugural season in the Mediterranean. Photo: Silversea
25 Regent Seven Seas Cruises has launched six new itineraries for 2024 and 2025, all of which will feature an overnight stay in each port of call. This is a first for the cruise industry, according to the brand. The ‘Immersive Overnights’ itineraries will be operated by Seven Seas Splendor, Seven Seas Explorer, Seven Seas Voyager and Seven Seas Navigator. The brand will offer a selection of 26 curated evening excursions in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe and Asia. Excursions include sunset winetasting at a Tuscan villa in Italy and a Michelin-star dinner in Athens, Greece. Regent Seven Seas Cruises introduces ‘Immersive Overnights’ Photo: Unsplash/Topsphere Media American Cruise Lines to add five new ships by 2026 US-based river cruise operator American Cruise Lines plans to take delivery of five new ships over the next two years. All five ships, which are currently under construction and are a mix of American Riverboats and Coastal Cats, will cater to the US market. The ships will accommodate between 90 and 180 passengers and are being built by Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Salisbury, Maryland. The addition of the new ships will renew focus on the Mississippi and Columbia Rivers, according to American Cruise Lines. Photo: American Cruise Lines Carnival Corporation has commissioned German shipbuilder Meyer Werft to build a fourth Excelclass cruise ship for its Carnival Cruise Line brand. The unnamed ship is expected to enter service in spring 2027 and will accommodate 6,400 passengers. “Our Excel-class ships have been a tremendous addition to the Carnival fleet and proven very popular with our guests,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “This new ship enables us to continue the growth of our incredible fleet as we welcome our loyal guests back to cruise more frequently and attract newto-cruise guests to experience all that a Carnival cruise has to offer.” Carnival orders fourth Excel-class cruise ship Photo: Carnival Cruise Line
MONTEGO BAY | FALMOUTH | OCHO RIOS | PORT ANTONIO | PORT ROYAL @jamaicacruising ----------- MARKETWATCH British celebrity couple Matt and Emma Willis will host the naming ceremony for Cunard’s newest ship, Queen Anne, in June 2024, in the cruise brand’s ‘spiritual home’ of Liverpool, England. The day of celebrations will include the christening, live performances from “eminent entertainers” and a “special salute” to the city, where Cunard began its transatlantic passenger shipping service in 1840. Photo: Cunard Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Jubilee was christened by three-time Grammy-award-winning musician Gwen Stefani during a ceremony at the Port of Galveston in Texas, USA, in February 2024. Stefani (centre) was joined by Josh Weinstein, president and CEO of Carnival Corporation, and Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, at the bow of the ship, which will spend its maiden season offering seven-day itineraries to Western Caribbean destinations. Photo: Carnival Cruise Line
27 Port of Toronto celebrates a record-breaking cruise season The English city of Plymouth expects to welcome over 10,000 cruise passengers in 2024, following a 40 per cent increase in bookings from 2023. The port city has 14 cruise ships already confirmed to call between April and October, with more in the pipeline. It is also receiving enquiries for 2025 and 2026. Cruise bookings grow by 40 per cent in Plymouth Photo: One Plymouth Port of Toronto welcomed a record-breaking 18,000 passengers onboard 45 ships at its cruise ship terminal throughout the 2023 season. Vessels from brands including Viking, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, Ponant, Plantours and Pearl Seas Cruises visited the Canadian city, with Viking Polaris and HapagLloyd’s Hanseatic Inspiration also making their maiden calls to the port. “I am thrilled to cap off another record season at the Port of Toronto Cruise Ship Terminal, welcoming thousands of visitors to Toronto through the harbour’s scenic Eastern Gap,” said RJ Steenstra, president and CEO of PortsToronto. The city of Valencia in Spain is to carry out multiple projects to become a more sustainable tourist destination after being named as the European Green Capital for 2024. Valencia will implement projects to enable locals and visitors to easily explore natural spaces; promote sustainable mobility by encouraging citizens and visitors to walk, cycle or use public transport; reclaim and rejuvenate public spaces; and protect and celebrate its cultural, natural and gastronomic heritage. Its new Central Park is also being expanded and will, when completed, add 23 hectares of green space to the city centre. Photo: Visit Valencia Valencia to develop more sustainable tourism experiences Photo: PortsToronto
28 MARKETWATCH Panache Cruises is using Temprotech’s customisable surface protection materials during its latest refurbishment project after the brand’s founder and CEO, James Cole, spotted the products onboard Oceania Cruises’ Oceania Vista. “In addition to protecting our existing floor and wall coverings, we used an edge protector to prevent damage to doorways and new furniture in our headquarters,” said Cole. “We have been very impressed with the results and many of these materials can be reused as well, which is an important environmental consideration for us.” Panache Cruises uses Temprotech on latest refurbishment project Photo: Temprotech Resin applications specialist Bolidt will supply and install decking and flooring for NYK Cruises’ Asuka III, which is currently under construction at Meyer Werft’s shipyard in Germany. This will be the first time Bolidt’s products have been used in a ship purpose-built for the Japanese cruise market. Bolidt has collaborated with NYK Cruises, interior design firm SMC Design and Meyer Werft to develop flooring solutions in new colours for the ship’s interiors, with special attention given to the sports courts. Bolidt will supply a range of products, including its Future Teak, Select Hard and Select Soft flooring products. Bolidt to supply decking and flooring for NYK Cruises’ Asuka III Photo: Meyer Werft Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has named Jason Liberty, Royal Caribbean Group’s president and CEO, as its new chairman. “I am excited and honoured to lead this organisation as we enter a new era of cruising,” said Liberty. “With consumer demand continuing to accelerate, we are doubling down on our commitment to decarbonisation and sustainable growth, ensuring that we are not only investing in our oceans and communities, but preserving them for generations of travellers to come.” Photo: Susan Parker
29 For every conceivable area Bolidt offers innovative decking solutions. Environmentally friendly Durable Cost efficient Lightweight Maintenance friendly Unlimited design options Our specialised application teams work worldwide, for new build as well as refit. Bolidt, no limits! Seatrade Cruise Global Booth # 3639 www.bolidt.com Edition 28 is the latest collection from British lighting designer and manufacturer Chelsom. The collection has been designed by Robert and Will Chelsom and includes an array of lighting solutions for global hospitality, marine and residential interior projects. One highlight of the collection is the Custom Gatsby range, which can be customised to produce different styles and effects. Chelsom debuts new lighting collection Photo: Chelsom DID YOU KNOW? When Queen Anne launches in May 2024, it will mark the first time that Cunard has operated four ships simultaneously since 1999. Carnival Corporation is on track to meet its emissions target four years early. The cruise company predicts it will cut greenhouse gas intensity by 18 per cent in 2024 (compared to 2019), just short of its 20 per cent reduction goal originally targeted for 2030. 73 per cent of millennials and Generation X travellers who have never cruised before would consider a cruise for their vacation, according to Cruise Lines International Association’s State of the Cruise Industry 2023 report. With a typical lifespan of around 30 years, cruise ships being launched today will still be sailing in 2050 and beyond.
30 MARKETWATCH Antarctica21 has commissioned Chile’s Astillleros y Servicios Navales Asenav shipyard to build a new expedition cruise ship designed exclusively for Antarctic exploration. Magellan Discoverer is scheduled to join the fleet for the 2026-2027 Antarctic season. Magellan Discoverer has been designed as a sister ship to the company’s existing polar expedition vessel, Magellan Explorer, but will have “numerous enhancements”, according to Antarctica21. The vessel will feature a yacht-like aesthetic and accommodate up to 76 guests in 40 cabins across three passenger decks. Asenav has chosen ABB to supply an Azipod propulsion and hybrid power system for the ship. “Manufacturing the first hybridelectric cruise ship in the Americas solidifies our position as a highly competitive shipyard on a global scale,” said Heinz Pearce, general manager of Asenav. Photo: Antarctica21 Antarctica21 to build new expedition cruise ship 80% of ships in the CLIA member fleet have onboard advanced wastewater treatment systems that rival shoreside treatment plants rise in fuel e ciency can be achieved if ships have a non-toxic antifouling hull coating 10% of CLIA member lines’ ships use exhaust gas cleaning systems 60% 15% of cruise ships entering service by 2029 will be equipped with battery storage DID YOU KNOW? Solar panels covering 500 square metres can produce enough electricity to power a ship’s guest elevators or approximately 7,000 LED lights, according to Celebrity Cruises. Read more about sustainable maritime interiors on page 148 Cruise brands go green Source: CLIA Photo: Unsplash/Alonso Reyes
31 Turnkey Projects & Lifecycle Services at Sea www.almaco.cc Product Spotlight Temprotech Quarter-Page Advert - C+F 2023 Cruise and Ferry Surface Protection info@temprotech.com Tel: +44 1264 337722 Web: www.temprotech.com Temprotech is a leading supplier of flame retardant and IMO approved temporary surface protection materials to cruise and ferry newbuild and refurbishment programs around the world. Our range of affordable products provide cruise lines, yards, outfitters and contractors with security and peace of mind enabling them to complete projects with minimal disruption, damage or delay. TRADENET ID: 252356 Hullbot Biofouling accumulates on all vessels stored in water, and frequent robotic cleaning is needed for minimal drag. Hullbot’s autonomous robots clean boats and ships frequently so they use 10 to 40 per cent less fuel. This is a measurable solution that has been validated by voyage data recorders to reduce fuel costs and emissions on passenger ferries. Hullbot designs, produces and deploys robots, offering cleaning as a low-cost service to operators around the world, enabling decarbonisation with no upfront capital costs. The service is complementary to hybrid fuels and electrification, while eliminating risks caused by invasive marine species by removing them at their source. Ultraguard Antifouling Ultraguard Antifouling uses ultrasonic vibrations to prevent marine life from attaching to the hull, seawater pipes and coolers of ships. This not only saves time and money for passenger shipping operators, but also contributes to the global efforts of decarbonisation. Keeping the hull clean reduces drag and improves fuel efficiency, resulting in decreased carbon emissions. Ultraguard Antifouling prevents the transfer of invasive species and eliminates the need for toxic antifouling paints that release harmful chemicals into the ocean. This makes it a sustainable solution for preserving marine ecosystems while reducing the carbon footprint of passenger shipping operations. Photo: Hullbot Photo: Ultraguard Antifouling Product Spotlight
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NzQ1NTk=