In 2017, Ulstein Design & Solutions AS announced their first design and equipment contract on an X-Bow expedition cruise vessel for ship owner SunStone Ships. The contract included nine options, and the first option has now been declared.
The first vessel for SunStone, which has received the name Greg Mortimer, is well underway at the CMHI (China Merchants Heavy Industry) yard, and is set to sail off for its first cruise after its completion in Q4 2019. This vessel, as well as the next one, have been chartered by the Australian Aurora Expeditions.
CMG Contract
Ulstein’s contract is with the China Merchants Group (CMG), China, and the vessels will be built at their yard. This second ship is scheduled for delivery in August 2020. Ulstein is responsible for the delivery of the design and equipment package. Ulstein is also responsible for pre-commissioning and commissioning, testing and sea trial assistance.
First Expedition Cruise Vessel with X-Bow
The expedition cruise vessels are the first of their kind in which the Ulstein X-Bow hull design has been implemented. The shape of the X-Bow enables the passengers to stand at the bow and look directly down to where the waves meet the hull. The bow leads to reduced ship movements, and, therefore, a more comfortable stay.
The X-Bow has a tapered fore ship shape to pierce waves of all heights, resulting in reduced pitching and bow impact loads in rough seas. It prevents the vessel from rising on the waves and dropping violently onto the water’s surface. The vessel needs less fuel to cut through the waves, reducing fuel costs and energy use, and thus reducing emissions.
CX103 Expedition Cruise Ship with Polar Code 6
The Ulstein CX103 expedition cruise ship is 104.3 m long and 18.4 m wide. The SunStone vessels are part of the Infinity Class, in which the passenger capacity can range from 130 to 200, and the crew capacity from 85 to 115. The hull will be built according to Polar Code 6, Category B, with dynamic positioning system and zero-speed stabilisers.
Observation decks and balconies offer a range of views to the surroundings. A high class restaurant and bar serve all-day delicacies and refreshments.
