Fleet addition
RADISSON Seven Seas Cruises is to build a luxury ship that offers only suites with balconies.
The vessel, which is due for delivery in February 2001, will have 280 suites of 28sq metres and 80 suites of up to 100sq metres.
The decision to build the vessel was prompted by passenger feedback, according to Edwina Lonsdale, sales and marketing director at The Cruise Portfolio, Radisson’s general sales agent in the UK.
“Customers are used to having balconies, and they want more space,” she said. “People like the option of spending time in private when they are travelling. They want accommodation to match the size of hotel rooms.” She said the 10 cabins with balconies on Radisson’s vessel Song of Flower always sold out immediately.
The new ship, with capacity for 720 passengers and 440 crew, will offer 24hr room service and four dining venues. The main dining room will be capable of accommodating all guests in one sitting.
A name for the vessel is expected to be announced in four months’ time. The building of the ship is a joint venture between Radisson and Monte Carlo-based ship management company V Ships. It is expected to cost up to $300,000.
Radisson is also working with V Ships on the building of Seven Seas Navigator, which is scheduled for delivery in August 1999.
n Radisson has announced its Millennium itineraries. Paul Gauguin will undertake a 19-night cruise to the South Pacific, while Song of Flower will offer a 20-night voyage in NewZealand and Australia. Seven Seas Navigator will sail between Fort Lauderdale and Los Angeles on an 18-night cruise.