Fred Olsen to Build 'Exploration' Ships

   March 1, 2018 ,   Cruise Industry

Fred Olsen Cruise Lines revealed an intention to build a series of "exploration" ships, the first of which line's chairman hopes could enter service within “the next couple of years”. According to Fred Olsen Junior, the line was now developing a design for a new 600-passenger vessel, confirming that he saw the ship as the first in a brand new class with further newbuilds to follow.

Olsen Jnr added the cruise line would look to use upcoming Seatrade 2018 conference in Fort Lauderdale FL to speak with shipbuilders.

Boudicca cruise ship

During a media launch for Fred Olsen's 2019-2020 Worldwide program, he emphasised the intention to offer more exploration-type cruising, introducing excursions on RIBs (Rigid Inflatable Boats) in destinations like the Canary Islands and Norwegian Fjords.

A couple of fibreglass bottomed boats, able to carry 12 passengers, will be installed on Boudicca during the dry dock of the ship in Hamburg next month with 2 more to follow on Black Watch.