Seatrade Cruise News is part of the Informa Markets Division of Informa PLC

This site is operated by a business or businesses owned by Informa PLC and all copyright resides with them. Informa PLC's registered office is 5 Howick Place, London SW1P 1WG. Registered in England and Wales. Number 8860726.

Knud E. Hansen unveils interiors for expedition cruise ship design

Knud_e_Hansen_interior_ Expedition_ship.jpg
Central wraparound bar and lounge areas with comfortable seating
Marine consultancy Knud E. Hansen has expanded on the interiors for a 144 mtr icebreaking expedition ship it designed and showcased in September 2020.

Suitable for up to 300 passengers and sporting a dual fuel propulsion plant with a large lithium-ion battery bank and twin podded propulsion, the vessel created by the in-house team of designers also has ‘unique interactive space ... that seeks to bring nature inside ... by offering passengers the opportunity to acquire a greater knowledge of their natural surroundings.’

Eco-conscious passengers

‘Related to the recent surge in ecotourism and expedition travel, the cruise industry has ushered in a new type of consumer that represents a monumental shift from the stereotypical cruiser,’ the Danish company said.

‘The new demographic seeks to explore parts of the world that have remained relatively untouched, embracing the exquisite beauty of their natural surroundings without disturbing the habitat and with minimal carbon footprint. While doing so, they wish to gain a greater understanding and appreciation for the natural world around them.’

Interactive equipment

With this at the forefront of the designers’ minds, the space comprises two decks at the forward end of the vessel with the lower deck featuring a collection of  artifacts and exhibits, multiple displays and informative touchscreens, a library, as well as interactive equipment including microscopes and a virtual reality experience.

There is also a wraparound bar on centerline and lounge areas with comfortable seating throughout the space. Oversized porthole windows on both sides provide plenty of natural light while allowing passengers to enjoy magnificent views.

Up forward is a convertible lecture hall with a stage and removeable partitions to allow for integration with the exhibit space.

Cavernous atrium

Between the two decks is a large opening and stairwell on either side that creates a cavernous atrium, providing a bright, spacious feel typically found only on larger vessels.

The upper deck includes a smaller bar, science exhibits, lounge seating as well as full height, wraparound windows on the side and forward end of the superstructure which allow for panoramic views.

The space is outfitted with an ultra-modern décor that includes sustainable, natural wood finishes, adjustable LED lighting, and dimmable smart windows for optimal energy conservation.

Learning environment

It provides passengers with an exceptional learning environment on the open seas with an equally comfortable place to relax and take in the beauty of their surroundings, Knud E. Hansen said.