Patented X-BOW design
The expedition ship will be constructed at China Merchants Heavy Industries and features the patented X-BOW design by Ulstein Design & Solutions.
The SunStone orders have been the first cruise contracts for Ulstein, a ship design company with long experience in the offshore industry. The X-BOW was developed for excellent seakeeping in rough conditions, but also has the advantage of more space in the bow areas. On the Infinity-class vessels this is being used for roomy lounges with outstanding views.
East Asia, Mediterranean and Scandinavia cruises
Sailing for Vantage, part of Boston-based Vantage Deluxe World Travel, Ocean Explorer is planned to cruise in East Asia, the Mediterranean and Scandinavia. Vantage owns and operate four European river vessels and packages river and ocean cruises around the world on various small ships.
The 104.4-meter Infinity-class newbuilds have capacity for 130 to 200 passengers and 85 to 115 crew. They have room to carry gear for outdoor activities like biking, kayaking and paddleboarding.
International cooperation
This newbuild project represents an international cooperation, with the shipowner, charterer and interior designer (Tillberg) in the US, the design company in Norway, the interiors supplier in Finland (Mäkinen) and the building in China.
Greg Mortimer, the first vessel in a series which is planned to stretch to 10, is in final outfitting before delivery in the third quarter this year.
