ORIENTLines is planning to operate a second ship alongside Marco Polo from next year.
UK sales and marketing director Paul Ellerby said that either another ship would be bought, or a vessel transferred from the fleet of parent company Norwegian Cruise Line.
He expects a decision to be made in time for the launch of Orient’s full programme for 2000 this April or May.
Ellerby claimed a second ship was needed in order to expand Orient’s offering to its regular customers.
“We have got a 40% repeat passenger ratio. Either new destinations or new facilities on a different ship are required,” he said.
Marco Polo: repeat business has prompted need for second ship