Croatian Shipyard Launched a New Expedition Cruise Ship

Hull 487, a polar expedition cruise vessel bearing the name “Ultramarine” has been launched on Saturday in Brodosplit shipyard. even as the world of cruising contends with the fall-out from the coronavirus pandemic.

– I want to point out that this is our 487 second of three ships that we have contracted in a completely new and innovative way that includes financing the ship. In this way, we showed the very demanding world market the possibilities of Croatian shipbuilding, the possibilities of Brodosplit, which is growing into a leader in European builders of polar cruisers. I am glad that today we can show how very difficult and complex projects can be realized in difficult times for the economy, said Tomislav Debeljak, The Chairman of the board of Brodosplit.

The Chairman of the board of Brodosplit, Tomislav Debeljak, thanked the workers of the Split shipyard for being able to complete such a significant project in the challenging times of the coronavirus. He thanked Minister Horvat and the Government of the Republic of Croatia for approving state guarantees three times and enabling the financing of profitable export projects that contain 70 percent of the domestic component, and pointed out that these export projects maintain not only the employment of more than 2,000 Brodosplit workers, but also the employment of thousands subcontractor workers and suppliers

This is a technologically advanced polar expedition cruise ship, contracted with the US company Quark Expeditions, a member of the Travelopia Group which brings together several companies from around the world specializing in adventure travels.

The Ultramarine is 128 meters long and 21.5 meters wide and it will be able to accommodate up to 200 passengers and cared for by 140 crew members housed in 103 luxurious cabins and public spaces across nine categories, including six solo suites with floor-to-ceiling windows and the largest entry-level twin suites found on ships in Ultramarine’s class. They will have spacious entryways, spa-inspired bathrooms with heated floors, premium sleep zones and decor that reflects the polar landscapes.

Public spaces will include the Panorama Lounge, two restaurants, a wine-tasting bar, a lecture theatre with comfortable seating and a high-resolution LED screen, and the Wellness Centre with a spa, a sauna with ocean views and a fully equipped fitness room with a separate space for yoga sessions. In addition, the ship will have a Polar Boutique and two ‘Ready Rooms’ next to the zodiac (inflatable landing craft) hangar, outfitted with individual lockers for each guest to dry and store personal items and expedition gear between excursions.

Two simultaneously operable helidecks for twin-engine helicopters and an internal hanger with capacity for 20 quick-deploy Zodiacs, sea kayaks, paddle boards and more will enable guests to enjoy flightseeing, heli-hiking, heli-skiing and other adventure excursions.

The value of the ship exceeds 106 million Euros and this is the first new building in Brodosplit’s history made for an American buyer.

The Chairman of the board, Tomislav Debeljak, pointed out in his address that by choosing a godmother, a protégé of the ‘Angels’ association, we want to encourage solidarity, care and inclusion for children and young people with disabilities.