A US entrepreneur and fitness expert plans to launch the first cruise line aimed at active “wellness-minded” adults.
Miami-based Gene Meehan aims to create a fleet of three luxury ships carrying a maximum of 350 passengers each under the Blue World Voyages brand.
The first unnamed all-suite vessel is due for delivery in November ahead of a refit in January 2018.
The ship is then expected to make its debut in the Mediterranean in May next year with other cruises between Miami and Cuba and Costa Rica under consideration.
Meehan said: “To date we have invested $400,000 in seed capital in the company, and have commitments for another $15 million from traditional investment channels.
“We will also be looking for some additional venture capital funds to provide a bridge for our cabin sales concept.”
A crowdfunding scheme to raise an additional $10 million will enable 26 investors to own suites on board the first vessel.
“Crowdfunding provides an excellent platform for connecting with potential customers, and the process gives proof of concept,” Meehan said.
“It’s time for a cruise line, and a ship, that responds to the preferences of active, wellness-minded individuals, or of those looking to move in that direction.”
Meehan, who has been developing the concept for Blue World Voyages for two years, claims to have assembled a leadership team of experienced cruise industry executives who embrace the corporate philosophy.
“At Blue World Voyages, our attention to sports/wellness and our focus on health are not options or add-ons, they are the core of the overall cruise travel experiences we offer; embedded in the design of the ship, the onboard programs, dining options, even the itineraries,” he added.
“The philosophy extends to our staff and crew, who we envision participating in cross-training and adventures ashore.
“This is uncharted territory for the cruise industry but it is so perfectly aligned with our view of passengers as partners, that it seems natural for us to take this direction.
“Our plan begins with the idea of having our passengers as our partners. That’s one reason we added a crowd-sourced component to our three-pronged approach to funding. We are creating a community of like-minded travellers, and listening to what they say.”