Starboard - Issue 5

STYLE IN TRAVEL

ECO-FLOATING HOTEL • NORWEGIAN PRIMA • CELEBRITY BEYOND

Carrara

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CONTENTS ISSUE 5 ON WATER

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MAIDEN VOYAGE

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Eco-Floating Hotel Celebrity Beyond Norwegian Prima M/Y Njord Oceania Vista Seabourn Venture Kivu Queen uBuranga Viking Aton Heritage Line Anouvong Disney Wish MSC Seashore

016 018 022 026 028 030 032 034 036 038 040

FEATURES Plain Sailing

042

Sea Change

046

Appetite for Change

050

Turning The Tide

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Shipping Forecast

062

It might not be plain sailing for the cruise industry but enhanced health and safety protocols together with succesful restarts and a healthy pipeline point to recovery.

With a host of new ships set to take their maiden voyage as soon as restrictions are eased, cruise ship design expert Ayesha Khan asks their designers to reveal more.

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With stringent health and safety measures coming into play, will changes to on-board dining spell the end of the buffet?

An eco-friendly superyacht may seem like an oxymoron, but the industry is navigating towards a sustainable future with a ripple effect on cruise ships.

From sustainability to spas, Shipping Forecast explores the trends and news from the water.

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CONTENTS ISSUE 5 074

ON LAND MAIDEN VOYAGE Virgin Hyperloop Airo by Heatherwick Studio Trend: The Year of Rail InterContinental Khao Yai National Park

074 077 078 080

VOYAGES AutoCamp 082 086 Camp Hox

IN THE AIR 082

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© Matt Kisiday

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MAIDEN VOYAGE Aska 088 EHang Vertiports 090 Crystal Cabin Awards 092 ZEROe by Airbus 094 Jet Blue Mint Suites 096 Arca by Aim Altitude 097 British Airways x Tom Kerridge 097 Trend: Elevated Encounters 098

FEATURES Life in Space

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With commercial space travel becoming a reality, focus is shifting to the innovations that contribute to an all-encompassing guest experience.

REGULARS Welcome 013 Events 107 In the Spotlight

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Cargo 115 Final Call

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WELCOME

ON THE COVER Eco-Floating Hotel, Qatar

Full Circle

W

hen I sat down to write this column for the previous

and the guest experience at heart. On land, there’s progress

issue of Starboard, it was with the expectation there

in the Hyperloop concept and a new venture from The Hoxton,

would be some element of ‘normality’ by the time

which brings the style and substance of its land-based hotels

this issue came along. At the time, hotels, restaurants and

to the campervan, while in the air, innovations include cabin

bars were fully open in most parts of the world, flights were

suites for commercial aircraft and a futuristic drive & fly

once again airborne and the Centers for Disease Control &

vehicle that could take to the skies as soon as 2026.

Prevention had just lifted its No Sail Order for cruise ships

Such ventures feed in to the notion that travel is about

in US waters. But six months on, Covid-19 is still making its

the journey as much as the destination – the very reason

presence known and travel and hospitality continue to suffer.

Starboard came to existence. And in the three years we’ve

The cruise industry in particular is struggling, with the

been publishing, the sector has come full circle; what started

majority of ships yet to return to operations. Very few new

as hotel groups venturing into travel has evolved into modes of

ships have launched, and those that have been delivered are

transportation presenting themselves as a rounded hospitality

as yet unable to take their maiden voyage. As a result, this

experience. From the onset of the pandemic, this trend has

issue of Starboard focuses primarily on the future pipeline,

only accelerated, driven largely by a demand for personalised,

and the good news is, we’ve received more new vessel

self-contained journeys. There’s a new car that transforms

announcements than ever, signifying healthy growth. We’ve

into a living and sleeping space for example, and private

published these projects in all their glory, with architectural

jet carriers are enhancing their offer through land-based

renderings and insight into the design schemes. We’ve also

packages and programming. Cruise lines meanwhile are

taken a look at the imminent launches set to take to the water

establishing a presence on land – particularly in the form of

over the coming months, and spoken to industry leaders to get

private island resorts in the Caribbean – and as a direct result

their take on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

of the pandemic, are seeking to forge partnerships with tour

Despite the headwinds, there’s a feeling of optimism amongst

operators, ground transportation, hotels and airlines in a bid

cruise line executives and designers, all of whom have been

to eliminate the risk of passengers boarding a ship having been

working hard to develop solutions and implement heightened

infected elsewhere. The idea is that the heightened health and

protocols that ensure the health and safety of passengers and

safety protocols on a cruise ship extend to the entire journey.

crew. There’s a palpable sense of community too, with the

It may be an ambitious goal, but this end-to-end approach

launch of initiatives such as Cruise Ship Interiors Expo’s CSI

will serve to put travellers at ease and could well be the saviour

Plus platform, established to assist in product sourcing, and

the industry needs to aid recovery.

Royal Caribbean Group’s Healthy Sail Panel, which shares its findings for the benefit of the wider travel sector.

With the wider travel sector in mind, this issue of Starboard once again delves into the design and development of other forms of transportation, particularly those with hospitality

Catherine Martin • Managing Editor

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MAIDEN VOYAGE

Eco-Floating Hotel QATAR

Hayri Atak Architectural Design Studio has unveiled plans for a floating hotel designed to the core principles of conserving energy and reducing waste.

Developed together with the expertise of naval architects and engineers, the 152-key property is set to be based in Qatar, though has no fixed location due to its mobile characteristic.

The ocean current will keep the vessel moving, with the upper structure rotating 360 degrees every 24 hours, providing guests with ever-changing views and cruicially generating electrical energy. A system known as vertical axis wind turbine and umbrella (VAWTAU) will also be employed, in which wind currents caused by

the temperature difference between land and sea produce enough energy to power the resort.

The centrepiece of the architecture is a vortex glass roof inspired by the surrounding waterscape, designed to whirlpool down to the heart of the 700m2 lobby as a unique visual feature. Its main purpose however is to collect rainwater that can be used both for greywater recycling and as irrigation for the greenery. Clean water will be obtained by purifying seawater, while wastewater will be treated so as not to harm the environment. The Turkish design studio also plans to develop waste separation units in order to turn food waste into fertiliser for the landscaping.

The hotel is accessed via a floating pier, boating dock or floating helipad, with a computer-controlled dynamic positioning system utilised to maintain the vessel’s direction, powered by its own propellers and thrusters.

Each guestroom comes with a private balcony, while facilities on board include multiple F&B venues, an infinity pool, a beach club, spa and sauna, gym and mini golf course. Although there is no exact date for the opening, feasibility and technical studies are ongoing and it is hoped the venture will be completed by 2025.

Celebrity Beyond

Following the success of the first two ships in its

“Celebrity Cruises has always been an innovator

game-changing Edge Series, Celebrity Cruises is once

at sea, and now we have challenged the status quo

CELEBRITY CRUISES

again setting out to redefine luxury, this time on the

with a vessel that goes beyond expectations, beyond

forthcoming Celebrity Beyond, due to set sail in 2022.

imagination,” explains Lutoff-Perlo. “Celebrity

Currently under construction at Chantiers de

Beyond shatters any and every preconceived notion

l’Atlantique in France, Celebrity Beyond is designed

of the cruising experience. This ship offers a journey at

to cultivate connection, bringing new opportunities

the intersection of elegance and approachability filled

for passengers to connect with one another, the

with what’s important to our guests today: forward-

surrounding seascape and their journey. Inspired by

thinking design, culinary excellence, unparalleled

a vision to take the cruise industry into the next era

well-being and incomparable service.”

of luxury, President and CEO Lisa Lutoff-Perlo has

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assembled a dream team of creatives to develop the

REIMAGINING THE RETREAT

spaces and experiences on board. British designer

Building on earlier ships in the Edge Series, The

Kelly Hoppen CBE, Paris-based studio Jouin Manku,

Retreat will make its return with reimagined aspects.

architect Tom Wright of WKK, and American designer

Designed by Kelly Hoppen, the new two-storey Retreat

Nate Berkus will reprise their roles from Celebrity

Sundeck will offer more outdoor space and ways

Edge in 2018, working to enhance and reimagine their

to rejuvenate in the fresh ocean air, with secluded

original concepts to new levels of luxury. The ship

cabanas, chic new seating areas, additional water

will also feature cuisine from Michelin-starred chef

features and the exclusive Retreat Bar. The Retreat

and restaurateur Daniel Boulud, and products and

Lounge is a new space to unwind, while Hoppen’s

experiences from Gwyneth Paltrow’s Goop.

refresh of the Luminae restaurant sees a relocation to

MAIDEN VOYAGE ON WATER

019

the front of the ship and the introduction of a

has expanded exterior spaces on board,

I sail,” says Wright of his enhancements. “The

boldly elegant scheme. Accommodation within

transforming them into serene outward-facing

design of the ship is what provides that window

The Retreat includes the redesigned duplex

sanctuaries to take full advantage of the ocean

to the world – the vantage point. More space on

Edge Villas with outdoor plunge pools, and

vistas. His design both lengthens the ship by 20

Beyond creates a bigger ‘window’ and enables

Celebrity’s famous Iconic Suites, the largest in

metres and raises it to 17 decks tall, allowing

us to add elements that I had always dreamed

the fleet, offering private spaces for relaxation,

for the reimagination of The Retreat, the Resort

of for Celebrity’s Edge Series.”

dining and entertaining. “All of these spaces are

Deck and the Rooftop Garden. The main open

so integral to the ship and people’s experience,”

deck, 40% larger than on previous Edge Series

CONNECTING WITH OTHERS

explains Hoppen. “For me, the design project

ships, features a living Rooftop Garden designed

As well as spaces to connect with nature,

became all about this idea that every day,

by Hoppen and includes increased seating and

Celebrity Beyond brings new opportunities to

someone’s going to feel different and want to

more spaces for movie watching, live music and

connect with others in a variety of settings. At

do something different but always want the

al fresco dining. Highlights include Wright’s

the heart of the ship is the Grand Plaza, a Jouin

ultimate holiday. So, there’s music, drinks and

incorporation of two floating pools cantilevered

Manku-designed social hub inspired by the

places to come together but also cocoons and

over the side of the ship, and the signature

piazzas of Italy; larger than on previous ships, it

places of solitude.”

Magic Carpet, a feat of engineering that soars

spans three decks and has an airier atmosphere

over the water and transforms from open-air

with more intimate seating areas for small

lounge or restaurant along higher decks to a

gatherings. The Martini Bar has relocated to

With outdoor spaces in high demand, Celebrity

tender platform for going ashore on lower

become a central feature of the space, while

Beyond ensures guests are able to experience

decks. “There is something about being at sea

Le Voyage is a new addition. Also designed by

the ship while soaking in the world around

and looking for the destination that is coming

Jouin Manku, the 50-seat restaurant helmed

them. Lead architect Tom Wright of WKK

up that is really quite special and is the reason

by chef Daniel Boulud comprises intimate

CONNECTING WITH NATURE

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MAIDEN VOYAGE ON WATER

seating cocoons shrouded in luminous veils,

bathtubs, the 400ft2 space is designed for mind,

accompanied by layers of light and texture for

body and spirit. All Aqua Class guests will be

an enchanting experience.

treated to perks such as self-care kits from

Another of the most anticipated venues on

Gwyneth Paltrow’s lifestyle brand Goop, while

Celebrity Beyond is the Sunset Bar, again larger

Paltrow will also serve as the cruise line’s new

than previous iterations, with designer Nate

Wellbeing Advisor.

Berkus creating a chic, Moroccan-inspired escape reminiscent of a modern-day Casablanca.

For Richard Fain, Chairman of Royal Caribbean

In keeping with the vision of connecting with

Group, parent company of Celebrity Cruises,

others as well as the surrounding environment,

the new iteration of the Edge Series is all about

the venue will incorporate more niches and

enhancing the guest experience through design.

covered enclaves for guests to get together in

“With Celebrity Beyond, we saw an opportunity

a more intimate way while taking in the views.

to take the extraordinary features of Celebrity

RETHINKING WELLNESS

Edge – like the focus on the connection with the ocean and the grand spaces – and really amplify

Taking the view that wellness should extend to

them,” he concludes. “We focused on providing

every space, Celebrity Beyond has introduced

more openness, height and spaciousness

the Aqua Class Sky Suite, an immersive living

throughout the ship’s most popular spaces;

experience that helps guests find their centre.

the end result is a next generation vessel that

Featuring floor-to-ceiling ocean views, private

embodies the intersection of architecture and

verandas, luxurious bedding and spa-style

design.”

ON DECK Route: Mediterranean Maiden Voyage: April 2022 Owner: Royal Caribbean International Operator: Celebrity Cruises Architecture and Interior Design: Kelly Hoppen CBE, Nate Berkus, Jouin Manku, Tom Wright Shipyard: Chantiers de l’Atlantique www.celebritycruises.com

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Norwegian Prima

Norwegian Cruise Line has announced details of

Each of the six vessels – measuring 965ft in length and

Norwegian Prima, the first of its highly anticipated

weighing in at 142,500 gross tonnes – is being built

NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE

Prima Class fleet set to feature a host of new spaces

in Italy by Fincantieri and will feature hull artwork

and experiences.

by Manuel Di Rita, commonly known as Peeta, whose

Able to accommodate 3,215 guests at double occupancy, the vessel will be a gamechanger for the operator, offering more outdoor deck space than any

the forward of the ship for the first time.

other newbuild, a food hall, infinity beach and larger

GUEST-CENTRIC DESIGN

staterooms. “Despite not having sailed in more than

NCL has enlisted a stellar line-up of world-class

a year, we never stopped working and innovating, we

designers to create its interior spaces. Italian architect

never once pressed pause,” explains Harry Sommer,

Piero Lissoni is responsible for suites and public

President and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line. “In fact,

areas of The Haven, a premium ship-within-a-ship

we doubled down on our brand investment in order

concept, while Studio Dado is developing the aesthetic

to deliver unforgettable guest experiences that go well

of various restaurants and staterooms. Rockwell

beyond expectations. Not only will we begin cruising

Group, SMC Design, Tillberg Design of Sweden and

this July, we’re so proud and so incredibly happy to

YSA Design are also on board, bringing expertise

announce the start of an exciting new chapter as we

garnered from years of experience in hotel, restaurant

introduce the Prima Class and the first ship in a line

and cruise ship design.

of unrivalled vessels with Norwegian Prima.”

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three-dimensional graffiti-style mural will extend to

The brief, according to NCL and Fincantieri, was

Due to begin sailing in summer 2022, the venture

to elevate the guest experience through spacious and

marks NCL’s first new class of ship in almost a decade.

thoughtful design, as Sommer explains: “An exemplary

MAIDEN VOYAGE ON WATER

023

representation of our brand evolution, bringing

oceanview and balcony staterooms, as well as its

DESTINATION DINING

together our ‘Guest First’ philosophy and

largest-ever bathrooms for standard stateroom

Continuing its series of firsts, Norwegian Prima

our spirit of innovation, Norwegian Prima

categories. And in another boundary-pushing

will introduce a new dining concept inspired by

personifies everything our guests love about

offer, there’s a three-bedroom suite thought to

the food halls that have been opening in cities

NCL and raises the bar. This brand-new class

be the most spacious of any new cruise ship.

in recent years. NCL’s first-ever upscale open-

of ships is truly designed to put our guests

For passengers seeking an ultra-premium

air marketplace, known as Indulge Food Hall,

first.” He adds: “We innovated with purpose

experience, The Haven by Norwegian has

has been created to elevate the guest experience

and created Norwegian Prima to push the

been elevated to new levels. Designed by Piero

and will feature dishes from a variety of global

boundaries of conventional cruising, offering

Lissoni, the ship-within-a-ship concept spans

cuisines. Along with a Starbucks and Texan

our guests more wide-open spaces, thoughtful

eight decks and provides dedicated amenities

smokehouse, outlets include a rotisserie, noodle

art and design and world-class service which

and services as well as the most luxurious

emporium, tapas food truck and salad bar, as

places our guests at the heart of it all.”

accommodations on board. All 107 Haven suites

well as a gelateria and artisan sweet treats stall.

have been relocated to the aft and offer a visual

Other dining options on Norwegian Prima

connection to the ocean via floor-to-ceiling

include Mexican restaurant Los Lobos, and the

Norwegian Prima will offer the highest staffing

windows and private balconies. Public spaces

revamped Local Bar & Grill set in an upscale

levels and space ratio of any new cruise ship in the

within The Haven are designed to be more open

beach club atmosphere and serving cocktails

contemporary and premium cruise categories,

to the sea; every outlet comes with a view while

and classic Americana cuisine. Onda By

as well as the largest variety of stateroom

the outdoor areas have been transformed into

Scarpetta will also return having made its debut

categories available at sea. Demonstrating its

an expansive sundeck with an infinity pool

on Norwegian Encore in 2019. Here, Studio Dado

commitment to putting guest comfort first, the

overlooking the ship’s wake and a new outdoor

have designed a bold, contemporary dining

vessel will feature NCL’s largest-ever inside,

spa with a glass-walled sauna and cold room.

room befitting of the Italian fare.

SUPERSIZED STATEROOMS

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MAIDEN VOYAGE ON WATER

A LIFE OUTDOORS

Norwegian Prima will make its maiden

Norwegian Prima will also offer more outdoor

voyage in Northern Europe in summer 2022,

deck space than any other new cruise ship

before crossing the Atlantic to sail Bermuda and

with al fresco dining, multiple infinity pools

the Caribbean. Since details were announced,

and vast outdoor walkways allowing guests to

the vessel has become NCL’s most in-demand

take in the ocean breeze. NCL has reimagined

ship ever, taking record bookings within the

The Waterfront by doubling its size and

first week. “Every aspect of Norwegian Prima,

adding a greater variety of experiences while

from bow-to-stern, was conceptualised with

Ocean Boulevard will debut as a new feature.

the guest in mind,” concludes Sommer. “With

Located on deck 8 and spanning 44,000ft2,

this world-class ship, we are providing our

the boulevard is designed to be a destination

guests with more wide-open spaces, elevated

in itself and incorporates open-air lounge

service, thoughtful design and a variety of

La Terraza, two Oceanwalk glass bridges and

experiences that go beyond expectation. Our

Infinity Beach featuring two pools close to the

record-breaking sales are a clear indicator of

ocean surface – an industry design first that

our guests’ excitement to return to the ocean

enables guests to take in the vastness of the

and of the significant demand for a premium

ocean. Completing the offer, The Concourse

vacation experience.”

is an outdoor sculpture garden showcasing immersive works by David Harber and Alexander Krivosheiw, the latter inspired by ancient mythology and contemporary abstract forms.

ON DECK Route: Northern Europe, Caribbean Maiden Voyage: Summer 2022 Owner: Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Operator: Norwegian Cruise Line Interior Design: Piero Lissoni, Studio Dado, Rockwell Group, SMC Design, Tillberg Design of Sweden, YSA Design Shipyard: Fincantieri www.ncl.com

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M/Y Njord

Ocean Residences Development has appointed

The venture marks a new style of residence

FM Architettura and Jean-Michel Gathy as

at sea, in which the facilities are on par with

OCEAN RESIDENCES DEVELOPMENT

interior designers for M/Y Njord, a luxury

those of a cruise ship or luxury lifestyle

superyacht featuring 118 private residences.

resort. Six restaurants, a gourmet market

At a length of 293 metres, the vessel will be

and culinary studio make up the dining offer,

home to a discerning community who share a

while wellness is taken care of courtesy of a

passion for exploration, voyage and research,

world-class medical spa facility developed in

creating an intimate circle united by their

partnership with pioneering health specialist

desire to give back to the planet and share the

Chenot. Residences range in size from 120m2 to

result of their discoveries. An impressive array

800m2 with the largest featuring a total of six

of amenities include a golf centre, swimming

bedrooms. M/Y Njord will also be the world’s

pools, a gym, an arts and craft studio, library,

only residential yacht to offer duplex and triplex

business centre and theatre, as well as a

suites with access via private elevators.

professional-standard oceanographic research

FM Architettura and Denniston are working

laboratory and a gyroscopic telescope housed in

closely with Chief Designer Jean-Louis

the top deck observatory. There will also be a

Stutzmann and naval architect Espen Øino;

sailing club with floating marina, an expedition

together they will custom-design every detail

and dive centre, various watercraft including

to a high specification. “We will design all of

submersibles and four purpose-built luxury

our furniture for this project, as with this type of

Riva-style tenders, and space for two eight-

yacht interior the proportions are vital, and the

seater twin-engine helicopters.

ratio of space to furniture must be perfect, as well

MAIDEN VOYAGE ON WATER

as the balance of materials and the atmosphere

use to punctuate the rooms. And lastly, water:

they create as a whole,” explains Francesca

the all-important element, to ensure the flow

Muzio, co-founder of FM Architettura. “Each

and balance of the design comes together in its

of our original designs is the result of a unique

entirety to create a sense of place.”

creative process that begins with exploring the

According to Ocean Residences Development,

client’s personality, integrating their ideas and

M/Y Njord will be a technically advanced green

discovering their specific passion and lifestyle.”

ship operating at the highest environmental

M/Y Njord’s architecture is characterised by

standards, and in an industry first, all crew

wide openings and vast double-height spaces,

will have private accommodation supporting

bringing a spatial quality unseen on a private

the company’s mission to attract and retain a

superyacht. Its interiors meanwhile are stylish

first-class workforce.

and elegant, with a tactile palette influenced by

Along with the comfort of both crew and

FM Architettura’s affinity for the four elements.

residents, health, safety and wellbeing are

“Earth to me is the use of wood in our designs,

paramount. “There is clearly a growing demand

be it in the bespoke furniture, flooring or

for a private, bespoke yachting lifestyle where

structural partitions, while air is the lightness

residents, their families and guests can travel

around the interiors created by using handmade

in a safe and healthy environment,” says Alain

carpets and bespoke woven textiles that lead

Gruber, COO of Ocean Residences Development.

the eye around the space,” explains Muzio.

“M/Y Njord will be very appealing to those who

“The fire comes into the accents with bespoke

share a sense of adventure, desire personal

bronze furniture, glass or the lighting, which we

enrichment and life-changing experiences.

ON DECK Owner: Ocean Residences Development Chief Designer: Jean-Louis Stutzmann Architecture: Espen Øino International Interior Design: FM Architettura, Denniston Shipyard: DIV Shipbuilding www.my-njord.com

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MAIDEN VOYAGE ON WATER

Oceania Vista

Culinary- and destination-focused cruise line

and more contemporary take on luxury,”

Oceania Cruises has revealed plans for Vista, one

explains Yohandel Ruiz, Founding Partner of

OCEANIA CRUISES

of two new 1,200-guest Allura Class ships set

Studio Dado. “A conscious effort was made to

to join its fleet. Currently under construction

create spaces that feel rich, while providing

at Fincantieri, the luxury vessel will set sail in

more contemporary silhouettes. The spaces are

2023, followed by its sister ship in 2025.

timeless and inviting, with a sense of wonder

ON DECK Route: Mediterranean Maiden Voyage: 2023 Operator: Oceania Cruises Interior Design: Studio Dado Shipyard: Fincantieri www.oceaniacruises.com

028

Named to reflect the dawn of a new age in

and discovery. Architectural materials have been

travel, Vista will exemplify all the hallmarks

elevated and used in ways that have not typically

of the Oceania Cruises experience that guests

been seen before. Whether it’s enveloping the

have come to expect, namely the operator’s

grand atrium stair in subtle leather or creating

signature F&B offering, billed as The Finest

custom crystal divider screens in the martini

Cuisine at Sea. Spanning two decks, The Grand

bar, guests will experience the richness of these

Dining Room is designed by Studio Dado to pay

architectural materials in ways they haven’t

homage to early 20th century Parisian society

before,” Ruiz continues. “The materials have

through its contemporary interpretation of

been elevated to an artform.”

Belle Époque. The vessel will also feature nine

According to Oceania’s President and CEO Bob

additional culinary experiences, dramatic public

Pinder, Vista represents a view to the future for

spaces and residentially-inspired suites and

the brand, and also pays homage to the officers

staterooms, introducing several firsts for the

and crew who played a pivotal role in the design

brand in terms of dining and guest experience.

of the ship, helping steer it from concept to

“The interiors offer guests a new elevated

design to reality.

MAIDEN VOYAGE ON WATER

Seabourn Venture

Seabourn has announced details on the spa and

natural stone flooring will give way to a palette

wellness offering aboard two of its new ultra-

of muted sage and orange shades, while four

SEABOURN CRUISES

luxury expedition ships, including the 132-cabin

treatments rooms – each fusing light woods,

Seabourn Venture. Designed by Adam D. Tihany,

textured wallcoverings and bronze accents – will

who is conceiving the interior and exterior

act as ‘branches’ of the biophilic concept, and

guest areas across both vessels, the spaces will

the sauna will provide views of the ocean and

be located on deck 7 and invite passengers to

coastline through floor-to-ceiling windows.

ON DECK Route: Copenhagen to Tromso Maiden Voyage: December 2021 Owner: Carnival Corporation Operator: Seabourn Cruises Interior Design: Adam D. Tihany Shipyard: CIMAR www.seabourn.com

030

enhance their physical, social, environmental

Currently available across the Seabourn fleet,

and spiritual wellbeing through a Mindful

Weil’s programme will be led by a Mindful

Living Programme developed in collaboration

Living Coach and champions a holistic mind-

with Doctor Andrew Weil.

and-body approach to wellbeing, offering

“Over the past year, wellness has grown in

complimentary yoga and guided meditation

importance in many people’s lives, and our

sessions, as well as seminars on integrative

staff will be devoted to providing a series of

medicine, nutrition, pain management and

treatments that ensure travellers can relax,

creative ageing. Therapists will also deliver

reconnect and recharge during their time on

massages for the face and body, together with

board,” says Seabourn President Josh Leibowitz.

detox, cleansing and wrap services, while a

The 3,700ft2 spas will be centred around the

Fitness Director will be on hand in the gym.

idea of a floating forest, with a tree-inspired

Seabourn Venture is set to make its maiden

art mural and live wood features ushering

voyage in December 2021, with its yet-to-be-

guests into the reception area. From here,

named sister ship debuting the following year.

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MAIDEN VOYAGE ON WATER

Kivu Queen uBuranga MANTIS

Conservation-focused hotel group Mantis has

bed oriented towards floor-to-ceiling windows

announced plans to launch its latest waterway

offers uninterrupted views of the lake and

experience – Mantis Kivu Queen uBuranga,

surrounding landscape.

the first motor yacht to sail on Lake Kivu in

Guests on board the luxury houseboat will

Rwanda. Billed as both one of the greatest and

have access to a range of facilities including a

safest lakes in Africa, the 90km-long body of

restaurant and cocktail bar, a swimming pool

freshwater lies at 4790ft above sea level. The

and a viewing deck furnished with a hot tub, in

unique boat experience will offer two-night,

addition to an on-board wellness centre. The

three-day packages taking passengers on a

operator will also create opportunities on land

luxury tour along Africa’s Great Rift Valley.

for travellers to sample the local culture through

With interiors conceived by South Africa-

ON DECK Route: Lake Kivu Maiden Voyage: 2021 Operator: Mantis Interior Design: MI Designs www.mantiscollection.com

032

guided walks and cultural tours.

based studio MI Designs, the floating boutique

In line with Mantis’ community and

hotel will offer a selection of accommodation

conservation pillars, Kivu Queen has been

options: six luxury cabins, two deluxe cabins,

created to add value to the environment and

one VIP cabin and one presidential suite.

communities of the region. As such, the vessel

Accomodation design centres around a scheme

will employ local staff to create an authentic

of wood-based materials, muted colours and

experience for guests, which also serves to

water-inspired artwork. To maximise space,

generate income for the local community.

each cabin will feature an open-plan layout with

Mantis Kivu Queen uBuranga is expected to

an en-suite sectioned off by a partition wall.

embark on its maiden voyage through the mild

On the other side of the partition, a king-size

equatorial climate by the end of 2021.

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MAIDEN VOYAGE ON WATER

Viking Aton

Viking Cruises has expanded its Egypt fleet with

the eye rest, managing the change between the

a new river vessel built specifically to navigate

bright sunlight and cool interior spaces, all

VIKING CRUISES

the Nile. Inspired by the design of Viking’s

while not losing sight of the incredible views.”

longships, Viking Aton will make its maiden

The 12-day itinerary begins with a three-night

voyage in September 2022 on the group’s

stay in Cairo, before guests fly to Luxor to board

popular Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary.

Viking Aton for an eight-day roundtrip offering

Accommodating 82 guests across 41 cabins,

ON DECK Route: The Nile Maiden Voyage: September 2022 Owner / Operator: Viking River Cruises Interior Design: Rottet Studio Shipyard: Maasara Shipyard www.vikingcruises.co.uk

034

access to sites like the tomb of Tutankhamun.

the vessel is designed by Rottet Studio and

“Egypt remains a top destination for many

blends Viking’s elegant Scandinavian aesthetic

of our guests, who are inspired to discover its

with Egyptian influences. Alongside river-facing

rich history and beauty,” says Torstein Hagen,

staterooms and a series of suites complete with

Chairman of Viking. “We will always maintain

full-size rooms and verandas, there will be a

our commitment to creating meaningful

pool and sun deck with 360-degree views, a

experiences that are focused on the destination.

lounge featuring floor-to-ceiling glass doors

The addition of Viking Aton is a reflection of our

and a terrace for al fresco dining.

continued investment in Egypt; we look forward

Speaking on Viking TV, Richard Riviere of Rottet Studio commented: “The ship was

to introducing the country’s cultural treasures to even more Viking guests in the future.”

designed from scratch to provide an environment

The vessel will join Viking’s existing river

that is not only perfect for exploring Eygpt’s

fleet in Egypt, which includes Viking Osiris, an

greatest river, but also to be a great hotel

identical sister ship set to launch in 2021, and

experience. We wanted to consider how to let

Viking Ra, which debuted on the Nile in 2018.

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MAIDEN VOYAGE ON WATER

Anouvong

Boutique cruise operator Heritage Line has

designed interiors and include large bathrooms

revealed details for its new ten-berth ship

fitted with a Jacuzzi.

HERITAGE LINE

Anouvong, the first luxury boat to sail the

“Our aim was to build a luxury vessel with

upper-Mekong river in Laos. Scheduled to

cabin sizes as large as possible, plus a range

set sail in Q3 2022, the vessel will operate

of enjoyable on-board facilities,” says Andreas

two itineries: a three-night journey between

Schroetter, Director of Sales & Marketing. “This

the Thai-Lao border town of Huay Xai to the

was a challenge, as the Laotian Mekong River

UNESCO World Heritage Site of Luang Prabang,

imposes natural restrictions such as fluctuating

as well as a longer journey from Huay Xai to

water levels, wandering sandbanks and winding

Vientiane, the capital of Laos.

curves that all impact the size of a ship.”

ON DECK Route: Upper-Mekong River Maiden Voyage: 2022 Operator: Heritage Line www.heritage-line.com

036

Interiors across Anouvong blend traditional

Anouvong’s F&B offer includes the Café-Bar

Laotian handcrafted artwork with elegant

& Lounge and De-Lagrée Dining Hall, which

French-colonial accents to offer guests a taste

serve gourmet dishes, local delicacies and

of the locale on board. The vessel accommodates

international favourites against a backdrop of

eight 20m2 staterooms with French balconies

gold-leaf. Further facilities such as the Bodhi

spread across the two decks, in addition to two

Spa and al-fresco terrace deck, equipped with

suites. Situated at the front of the main deck,

sun loungers and seating, provide views of the

the Signature Suites provide 30m2 of space with

river and passing shoreline.

floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open onto private balconies. The two Signature Suites and the top-level living quarters feature individually

MAIDEN VOYAGE ON WATER

Disney Wish

Inspired by the enchanting fairytales for which

carriage and glass slipper can be seen in the

it is best known, Disney Cruise Line has unveiled

metalwork and crystal chandelier.

DISNEY CRUISE LINE

design details for the fifth ship in its fleet.

ON DECK Route: Caribbean Maiden Voyage: June 2022 Owner: The Walt Disney Company Operator: Disney Cruise Line Interior Design: Walt Disney Imagineering Shipyard: Meyer Werft www.disneycruise.disney.go.com

038

Bringing to life the characters of Disney,

Setting sail in June 2022, Disney Wish will

Pixar and Marvel adventures, facilities on board

feature a host of new spaces and experiences,

the ship include a Mickey & Friends-themed

each developed to the theme of enchantment.

waterpark; a Frozen dining experience; an

“Enchantment is about unlocking the wonder

Alice-in-Wonderland cinema; and an adults-

in everything we do and experience,” explains

only Star Wars bar. Also new for Disney Wish,

Laura Cabo, Portfolio Creative Executive at Walt

the 1,254 staterooms follow a soft, dreamlike

Disney Imagineering. “For Disney Wish, we

palette, with pixie-dusted furnishings,

are creating a signature design language that

glittering gold-leaf headboard murals and

exudes this emotional magic like only Disney

framed artwork commissioned exclusively for

can, by infusing every inch of this enchanted

the vessel. The rooms – the majority with ocean

ship with more Disney stories and characters

views – have been designed with families in

than ever before.”

mind and incorporate elevated beds, plenty of

At the heart of the ship is the Grand Hall,

storage space and the signature split-bathroom

a fairytale castle-inspired atrium with Gothic,

concept with separate WC. There’s adjoining

Baroque and French Rococo influences that give

rooms for larger groups and four royal suites

life to the columns, carvings and adornments. A

that celebrate the world of Sleeping Beauty, with

bronze statue of Cinderella stands at the foot of

some available in a two-storey configuration –

a sweeping staircase, while nods to the princess’

the first of their kind for the Disney fleet.

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MAIDEN VOYAGE ON WATER

MSC Seashore

MSC Cruises has revealed details of the MSC

newly introduced deluxe grand suites. MSC

Yacht Club offering aboard two of its newest

Seashore will also debut two brand-new Owner’s

MSC CRUISES

ships, including the MSC Seashore. First

Suites – the largest on the ship. Spanning 98m2,

launched in 2008, the ship-within-a-ship

each will include an extended balcony with

concept offers guests the privacy and exclusivity

whirlpool and outdoor lounge, impressive sea

of a private club, whilst also providing the

views, and a separate dining and living room.

wealth of leisure and entertainment facilities that a larger ship has to offer.

ON DECK Route: Mediterranean and Carribean Maiden Voyage: August 2021 Owner / Operator: MSC Cruises Flag State: Italy www.msccruises.com

040

Further Yacht Club facilities include a 2,000m2 pool area and sundeck boasting uninterrupted

Spread over four decks, the MSC Yacht Club

panoramic views from the very front of the ship,

onboard MSC Seashore has been upgraded to

in addition to members-only F&B venues. Yacht

become the largest and most luxurious in the

Club guests will gain access to the vessel’s 11

company’s fleet, with almost 3,000m2 of private

eateries including a fine-dining restaurant and

space. Upon entry guests will be greeted by a

the Top Sail Lounge.

three-deck, 46m2 backlit onyx wall, alongside

This August, MSC Seashore will embark on its

MSC Cruises’ signature sparkling Swarovski

maiden voyage from Rome to Barcelona. From

staircases in the atrium, setting the tone for

November 2021, the vessel will sail to Ocean Cay

the luxurious interiors throughout.

MSC Marine Reserve, the cruise liner’s exclusive

The MSC Yacht Club will feature its own accommodation comprising 131 suites in five different styles, including traditional interior suites, deluxe and royal suites, as well as 41

Bahamian destination, where Yacht Club guests will benefit from privileges ashore.

JUNG_AZ_Plug_Light_Spotlight_Ambi_236x275mm_Path_EN.indd 1

07.05.21 12:30

Plain Sailing It might not be plain sailing for the cruise industry but enhanced health and safety protocols together with successful restarts and a healthy pipeline point to recovery.

Words: Catherine Martin • Photography: © MSC Cruises

W

hile the global pandemic

focus on design and the ensuing guest experience

of Europe and Asia has instilled confidence

has

unexpected

were high on the agenda for many a cruise line,

amongst both operators and passengers that

benefits for both society

but along came a virus that saw even the best-

such journeys can be taken safely. Singapore

and the environment – a

made plans grind to a halt. “As with the rest

Tourism Board’s CruiseSafe Certification

welcome slowdown in

of the world, our plans for 2020 were turned

kickstarted the sector when it launched in

pace of life and a marked

upside-down at the emergence of the Covid-19

October 2020, with Genting and Royal Caribbean

reduction in harmful CO2 emissions – its impact

pandemic, culminating in the voluntary

amongst the first to sign up. The scheme’s

on businesses operating in the hospitality,

suspension of cruise operations worldwide in

strict guidelines stipulate that ships are to

travel and tourism sectors has been, in a

mid-March,” continues Craighead, speaking in

operate at a reduced capacity of up to 50%, are

word, catastrophic. There’s no denying that

CLIA’s State of the Cruise Industry Outlook for

for Singapore residents only, and must depart

the lockdowns sweeping the globe have hit

2021. “In the months that followed, our industry

and return to the same port with no stop-offs in

operations, jobs and revenues across the

wasted no time engaging leading experts and

between. The stamp of approval confirms that

board, but for a sector that was in the midst of

government authorities to strengthen already

sailings meet comprehensive health and safety

unprecedented growth, the repercussions have

robust public health measures and to put people

requirements and has so far been a resounding

been particularly hard to take.

and communities first.”

success, so much so that Royal Caribbean has

had

“The reality of 2020 sits in stark contrast

Published at the end of 2020, CLIA’s report

announced that Quantum of the Seas will

to the year that immediately preceded it,”

outlines the immediate response to the

continue sailing from Singapore through to

confirms Kelly Craighead, President and CEO of

pandemic and addresses the enhanced protocols

October 2021, marking its longest season yet.

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA).

required for a return to service. According to

Genting meanwhile restarted service on World

“In 2019, the global cruise industry welcomed

the association, which represents 57 cruise

Dream with Singapore as its debut homeport;

nearly 30 million passengers, creating jobs

lines accounting for 95% of global capacity,

more recently, the group has resumed sailings

for 1.8 million people around the world and

there were more than 200 sailings between July

from Hong Kong, offering two- and three-

contributing over US$154 billion to the global

and December 2020, demonstrating that new

night ‘seacations’ for the city’s residents.

economy. With this growth came increased

protocols were operationally successful. Full

In the UK, cruising restarted on 17 May 2021

recognition of cruising as one of the best ways

passenger and crew testing on embarkation

in line with the easing of restrictions for indoor

to experience the world, and our industry was

as well as additional screenings throughout

hospitality spaces. Sailings are once again only

focused on achieving previously unthinkable

the trip were just some of the measures put

for domestic travellers, though some operators

milestones to pave the path for a brighter and

in place, along with compulsory face masks,

have been wary of diving straight in. Cunard

more sustainable future.”

physical distancing and ventilation strategies.

for example has launched a series of staycation

A return to the water for cruise ships in parts

voyages on board Queen Elizabeth, but it will be

Refurbishments, newbuilds and a renewed

PLAIN SAILING ON WATER

“The reality of 2020 sits in stark contrast to the year that immediately preceded it. In 2019, the global cruise industry welcomed nearly 30 million passengers, creating jobs for 1.8 million people around the world and contributing over US$154 billion to the global economy.”

KELLY CRAIGHEAD, CLIA

mid-July before they take to the water, while

standards for delivering a safe and healthy

will also be a dedicated public health officer

P&O has announced that cruises on Arcadia,

cruise experience for guests and crew.

and infectious disease prevention officer on

Aurora, Azura and Ventura have been cancelled

Given that North Americans accounted for

board. And to further reassure guests, NCL has

until the end of August, and on Britannia and

more than half of all cruise passengers in

partnered with AtmosAir Solutions to install

new ship Iona, until late September.

2019 and the Caribbean was by far the most

continuous disinfection air purification systems

Operations on mainland Europe are faring

popular destination, the restart of operations

across its 28-ship fleet.

a little better. MSC will run cruises in the

in the USA will have a positive impact on the

Royal Caribbean Group meanwhile formed

Mediterranean and Northern Europe through

sector as a whole. Getting back out on the

the Healthy Sail Panel, a taskforce of medical

summer

MSC

water is top of the agenda for all cruise lines,

and scientific experts who are pooling their

Orchestra’s departure from Venice on 5 June.

and the health and safety of both passengers

knowledge to develop protocols for the travel

In total, MSC is set to deploy ten ships for the

and crew has a major role to play. With talk

industry. The group has also appointed a Global

season, with an impressive 15 embarkation

of vaccination passports in some parts of the

Head, Public Health & Chief Medical Officer, a

ports for Mediterranean itineraries. Costa

world, verified health is becoming a ticket to

new role that ensures the Healthy Sail Panel

Cruises meanwhile has been sailing again since

travel, but for the most part, the onus is on

recommendations are implemented across

1 May, with Costa Smeralda departing from

the operator to provide a safe experience and

Royal Caribbean’s four brands.

Savona in northwest Italy.

effectively communicate protocols to guests

Over at MSC Cruises, enhanced health

The USA has lagged behind somewhat, owing

to put their minds at ease. As a result, major

and safety protocols have been aided by an

to the CDC’s No Sail Order through 2020. New

operators have set about establishing their

unexpected uptake in technology solutions.

phases of the Framework for Conditional

own sets of standards for hygiene on board.

Speaking

Sailing Order for ships operating in US waters

Carnival Corporation’s Cruise Health Program

Bernhard Stacher, Vice President of Global Hotel

were issued in May, meaning a restart is in

involves mandatory mask-wearing, regular

Operations, explained that QR codes and apps

sight. Norwegian Cruise Line has announced

testing and of course the now ubiquitous

have been part of the MSC offer for some time

plans to sail to Alaska from August pending

sanitising station, while Norwegian Cruise Line

but were previously underutilised; the impact

CDC authorisation, while Carnival Cruise Line

Holdings launched Sail Safe, a science-backed

of Covid-19 has accelerated the need for such

is hoping to commence in July. Pipping them

health and safety programme across its three

solutions, and adaptation is now almost 100%.

to the post however is Royal Caribbean Group,

brands. The scheme states that all crew and

Along with technology and innovation,

which has received approval to resume sailings;

passengers must be fully vaccinated at least

Seatrade Cruise Virtual addressed a number of

its luxury ship Celebrity Edge will depart from

two weeks prior to embarkation; it promises

topics across its three-day programme, from

Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale as soon

reduced occupancy, contactless food service and

the future of dining and social environments

as 26 June, having successfully met all new

enhanced cleaning across the ship, and there

to the guest experience. Given that the design

2021,

commencing

with

at

Seatrade

Cruise

Virtual,

000

PLAIN SAILING ON WATER

Much like the wider hospitality sector, the global pandemic hasn’t necessarily brought about change, but rather accelerated the shifts that were already under way.

of cruise ships is generally locked in years in

their on-board facilities to cater to rising

to be delivered before the end of 2021 and a

advance, there was little to discuss in the way of

demand for spas, fitness centres and personal

further 30 in 2022. The healthy pipeline is being

Covid-induced change, however the recent focus

training programmes; again, this sector was

led by MSC Cruises, with 12 ships on order,

on the on-board guest experience will serve the

already experiencing growth both on land and

followed by Viking, with 10 new ships in the

sector well at a time when shore excursions are

on the water, and the current health crisis will

works.

limited. Whether through design solutions or a

only strengthen the case.

In all, the report paints a positive picture

wider variety of facilities and services, the idea

Looking ahead, the cruise ship industry

of the cruise industry going forward, with

that the ship is the destination has been gaining

is set to grow as planned, albeit at a slower

the new supply balanced by the retirement of

momentum for some time and the pandemic

pace. The organisers of Cruise Ship Interiors

older vessels. And while there’s been much

will no doubt accelerate this thinking.

Expo recently published a report – available

debate over the spread of disease on a cruise

There were plenty of challenges to discuss at

to download for CSI Plus members – based on

– critics claim the confined environment is a

Seatrade Cruise Virtual, with one of the more

insight from its community of ship owners,

petri-dish for germs – those within the sector

prominent themes being a shortage of crew.

cruise line executives and designers. Asking

believe that the bubble of a ship is far safer

Due to the uncertainty of a restart, many have

a series of open-ended questions to gauge

than any other environment in the travel and

left the cruise sector in favour of land-based

perspective and assess market conditions,

hospitality sectors, particularly when you take

hospitality roles, leading to concerns of a major

the report explores the refurbishment and

into account the limit on shore excursions for

shortage, particularly given the new tonnage set

newbuild sectors as well as interior design

passengers and restrictions of stepping ashore

to launch over the coming months. But despite

trends. According to the findings, there were

for crew. The challenge going forward will be

the concerns, leaders across the sector have

no reports of refurbishment cancellations as a

in joining the dots and creating an end-to end

been optimistic that the industry will return.

result of the pandemic, and if anything, cruise

travel experience that takes into account the

Demand is there, as evidenced by the launch of

lines have used the stoppage as an opportunity

entire journey.

Norwegian Prima, which became the brand’s

to upgrade vessels, which has come as welcome

Speaking at Seatrade Cruise Virtual,

most in-demand ship ever, taking record

news to the supply chain. Most respondents felt

Paul Austin, Head of Safety, Security, Crisis &

bookings in the first week of sales. Operators

that the refurbishment market will play a major

Business Continuity Management at Intercruises

of smaller ships are seeing strong demand too,

role in future strategies, with multi-phase light

Shoreside & Port Services, explained that prior

with some passengers clearly opting for low-

upgrades – involving HVAC systems, upholstery

to joining a cruise, passengers will likely take

capacity vessels to avoid mixing with others.

or loose furniture – taking precedence over

land transfers and a flight as well as stay in a

full-scale refits that often involve a ship being

hotel – parts of a journey over which a cruise

out of action.

line has no control, and are arguably riskier due

Much like the wider hospitality sector, the global pandemic hasn’t necessarily brought about change, but rather accelerated the shifts

The newbuild market is also showing

to the mixing with others. Austin’s role involves

that were already under way. Growth in the

resilience with the order book as busy as ever.

ensuring that third-parties such as land-based

expedition sector for example is being further

While there were notable delays to maiden

tour operators and transfer services adhere to

bolstered by an increased consumer desire to

voyages through 2020 – and significant delays

the same set of standards as a cruise line, so

travel to remote destinations away from built-

expected to continue – the report states that

that the safe-travel bubble can be maintained.

up, overpopulated urban areas, while eco-

only a small proportion of newbuild work has

This idea of a single operator providing an end-

friendly vessels and sustainable operations

been cancelled. Shipyards Fincantieri, Meyer

to-end journey for the passenger could well be

could see a boost owing to a renewed focus on

Werft and Chantiers de l’Atlantique all report

the overarching approach the sector needs to

climate change. Wellbeing is on the agenda too,

busy orderbooks, with the latter set to deliver 10

aid recovery.

and as a result, operators are re-examining

ships by 2025. In total, 37 vessels are expected

SEA CHANGE ON WATER

Tillberg Design of Sweden is soon to launch Crystal Endeavor, which speaks of adventure and exploration

Sea Change With a host of new ships set to take their maiden voyage as soon as restrictions are eased, cruise ship design expert Ayesha Khan asks their designers to reveal more.

Words: Ayesha Khan

A

fter over a year of lockdowns

players had tried for a long time to get into the

and entire fleets being held at

market but have perhaps been less successful

port, the cruise ship industry is

because they were missing the expertise and

finally reawakening with a host

attention from the shipyards. With some ship

of launches and deliveries on the

owners reducing their design teams, there is

docket. Each new vessel reveals

suddenly some great talent available to enhance

that there has been a noticeable sea change

the new ventures,” he adds, noting that the

in the industry, so I recruited some industry

average size of this crop of new ships is around

colleagues to explain three emerging trends,

the 50,000-tonnes mark.

none of which, surprisingly, have anything to do with Covid-19.

THE SMALLER THE BETTER?

In the small-ship category, Tillberg is soon to launch Crystal Endeavor for Crystal Cruises, which speaks to another trend – that of adventure and exploration. “It’s about combining luxury

To illustrate this trend, I thought of no one

and gentle exploration,” he explains. “A lot of

better than Fredrik Johansson, Partner and

ships are introverted, so we turned the concept

Executive Project Director at Tillberg Design

inside-out and are designing the structure to

of Sweden, the mastermind behind the soon-

maximise the floor-to-ceiling glazing and

to-launch Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. “We

transparency on the outside.” The 200-guest

have six-to-eight start-up projects on our

vessel features suite-style staterooms with

tables right now,” Johansson explains. “A lot of

generous verandas; a fold-out platform deck

new players have been inspired by the courage

from which guests enjoy the ever-changing

that The Ritz-Carlton founders had. These new

panoramas and a pair of helicopters.

047

SEA CHANGE ON WATER

Studio Dado’s staterooms on Mardi Gras (top) and Richmond International’s interiors on P&O Iona (bottom) are designed with the guest experience in mind

MASTERFUL MEGASHIPS

ALL ABOUT THE STATEROOMS

window, and the interlocking room has the bed

Terry McGillicuddy, Director at Richmond

Greg Walton is something of a stateroom

positioned closer to the entry. The challenge

International has recently completed P&O’s

master, being involved on the game-changing

with these types of rooms becomes size – often

largest megaship, Iona. With owners making

interlocking staterooms of Celebrity’s Solstice

interlocking staterooms are smaller or feel more

90% of their revenues from 50% of their fleet

class and Royal Caribbean’s Oasis class before

cramped than standard staterooms. Studio Dado

– ie. their largest ships – it’s little wonder

going on to found his own firm, Studio Dado,

combatted this by reducing the size of the

there’s a focus on improving the lucrative

and working on Princess’ staterooms. “The

balcony. “As much as people want a balcony,

market segment, making it more attractive

thing to remember about staterooms is that

they don’t really spend that much time there,”

to a wider cross-section of travellers. “There

whatever you do in one room, you do 1,500

Walton explains. “Carnival did not want their

was a desire to attract a younger demographic

times over, so you really want to work every

guests to feel that this stateroom was small, so

and be more contemporary,” McGillicuddy

detail,” Walton says. “There’s been a growing

we reduced the balcony space in favour of more

explains. As luxury hotel designers responsible

trend for larger, more luxurious staterooms in

space in the room.”

for grand dame hotels such as The Dorchester

general; it used to be that cruise lines wanted

Other ploys Carnival used to create the feel

and various Four Seasons properties, Richmond

to encourage passengers out to the casino, the

of a larger room was to use lighter colours

International were certainly the right firm for

shops, the bars and restaurants, but they’ve

and introduce a wet cell (or bathroom) that

the job. They also had the unique distinction

learned that the stateroom is an integral part

accommodates a larger shower.

of designing the entire P&O Britannia from

of the vacation experience. It has become a place

bow to stern. “Back then, cruise ships felt a

for people to nest.”

For Studio Dado, the pandemic has been an opportunity to reassess design schemes, but in

bit theme-y, so we were the first to bring a

Co-Founding Partner Yohandel Ruiz agrees:

reality, there’s been no major changes. “At the

calming residential aesthetic,” McGillicuddy

“When we design spaces, we ultimately focus on

beginning of the pandemic, we had to ensure

recalls. The directive for Britannia was along

the guest experience and consider how the guest

our designs provided the retrofits required to

the lines of The Dorchester-at-sea, and the only

wants to feel. We always ask ourselves, what

allow for the new social distancing protocols,”

thing standing between Dorchester opulence

will they remember from their lounge or suite.

explains Ruiz. “Now that we are seeing progress,

and the sheer scale of a megaship is budget,

For us, it’s more than the creation of a sense

I anticipate some of these modifications may

or cost complexity, as the shipyards call it. But

of place, it’s about creating the environment

not be implemented. Overall, our spaces did not

McGillicuddy and his team quickly caught on.

and backdrop for memorable moments that

undergo any major redesigns.”

“By the time we got to working on Iona, we

transcend the spaces we are designing.”

really understood the cost complexity issue. We

Then there’s the question of whether or not

So while there’s been plenty of talk over the

realised we don’t have to spend money on every

to interlock the prefabricated room blocks to

past 12 months surrounding the changes to

surface because guests will remember the grand

save space. “Technically on a ship like Mardi

ships as a result of the pandemic, the consensus

gestures rather than if the seats had black-and-

Gras you can get around 10 more staterooms

amongst owners, operators and designers is

white checks on them.” The resulting spaces on

per deck, and if you use the old saying that

that although there may be a shift long-term,

Iona employ pared down fabrics and finishes

a stateroom is a million dollars a year in

the vessels already under way can implement

combined with grand gestures such as elaborate

revenue, then that’s 10 million more dollars per

simple workarounds such as rearranging

brass screens at the Deck 17 Crow’s Nest, or

deck,” Walton explains. Think of interlocking

furniture or specifying anti-microbial fabrics,

the undulating feature ceiling of Epicurean, the

staterooms as Tetris pieces – each one has a

but no wholesale design changes are in order.

ship’s fine-dining venue. Guestrooms feel like

notch that makes either the front half or the

suites with an elevated, residential aesthetic and

back half of the room narrower, meaning that

subtle nautical nods that, McGillicuddy says,

when interlocking staterooms are arranged side

“give a feeling of being seaside.”

by side, one has the bed positioned close to the

049

Chef Daniel Boulud is set to take his cuisine to the seas with a new restaurant on Celebrity Beyond

APPETITE FOR CHANGE ON WATER

Appetite for Change With stringent health and safety measures coming into play, will changes to on-board dining spell the end of the buffet?

Words: Jenna Campbell • Food Photography: © Bill Milne

C

ruising has evolved gradually

spread at a cruise ship buffet or restaurant. As

over the years, but one aspect

expected, the results were far from optimistic,

that has stood the test of time

exemplified by a widely-shared video showing

is the buffet. An integral part of

how easily the virus could transfer between food

the on-board dining experience,

items, utensils and passengers. In a subsequent

it captures the very essence

effort to show how socially-distanced dining

of travel, a chance to free oneself from the

on cruise ships could work, operators were

constraints of the day-to-day in favour of

faced with the reality of reduced capacity and

indulgence and unashamed consumption.

the removal of self-service options, which will

Operationally, these large-scale dining rooms

likely result in lengthy queues and discomfort

and self-service concepts have traditionally

for passengers occupying a confined space.

been the most efficient way to feed hundreds,

These concerns are not limited to cruise

if not thousands of hungry passengers in a

ships of course, land-based hospitality spaces

relatively short amount of time.

are faced with the exact same challenges. So

That was until Covid-19 brought the industry

with hotels, restaurants and bars now open in

to a standstill, reshaping fundamental aspects

most parts of the world, what learnings can

of the cruise experience and forcing operators to

the cruise sector take to on-board dining? In

examine the future of dining. In the early stages

recent months, Starboard’s sister publication

of the pandemic, Japan’s public broadcasting

Supper – dedicated to hotel food and drink – has

organisation NHK conducted an experiment in

explored the innovative solutions and practices

collaboration with infectious diseases experts

that have helped the sector get back to business.

to illustrate how quickly coronavirus could

The introduction of Perspex screens to separate

052

APPETITE FOR CHANGE ON WATER

Virgin Voyages and MSC Cruises have diversified their food and beverage offer, opting for more intimate venues, food halls and enhanced room service

tables were a quick and easy solution in the early days of the pandemic, but since then, a host of more creative concepts have come to the fore.

Adam D Tihany for example developed a series of screens that co-ordinate with the interiors of the restaurants he designed, an idea that could be implemented in his forthcoming cruise projects. For Vernick Fish at Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia Comcast Centre, Tihany designed screens in the same fluted glass that fronts the pass, while at Seafood Bar at The Breakers Palm Beach, the room dividers feature nautical details in line with the interiors scheme.

Elsewhere, architect David Rockwell – who’s

“One of the biggest successes we’ve seen is our QR-coded menus for restaurants and wine lists; it’s really about leveraging the mobile devices and technology guests already have.”

JACQUES VAN STADEN, MSC CRUISES

already standard practice, as is the removal of table items such as salt-and-pepper shakers.

Over the last year, existing practices have stepped up with enhanced cleaning methods like electrostatic spray systems, pre-boarding health screenings, mandatory hand-washing stations and single-serve packaging to reduce the risk of virus transmission.

While more stringent health and safety regulations could result in the end of the buffet altogether, there was already a gradual move away from the concept pre-Covid. In a worldfirst, Virgin Voyages eschewed the cruise staple in favour of a food hall, where all meals are

working on Norwegian Prima – devised a kit of

made to order, giving guests the chance to eat

parts that could transform New York’s streets

as and when they like. Setting the tone for

into outdoor restaurants. The adaptable and

things to come, the company also revamped

modular system addresses flooring, barriers,

its room service offering with ‘Ship Eats’,

shading, lighting and furniture as well as space

taking ergonomically designed tiffin boxes,

for sanitation and restaurant equipment with

re-usable lunch boxes and kit bags to create

the ultimate aim of creating a venue that diners

a more experiential and personalised in-room

feel comfortable in. Design agency AvroKO

experience. Doing away with cumbersome

meanwhile produced its own Covid-19 response

plates, glasses and trays, the stacked dishes are

in the form of a step-by-step guide for the

designed to be handled, allowing guests to move

reopening of restaurants. Entitled Reimagining

around the cabin, while the canvas bags roll up

Your Restaurant, the guide uses AvroKO’s

and down to cater to large or small food orders.

The evolution away from buffets has also led

philosophy of Hospitable Thinking - designing not just for functionality or aesthetics, but for

up with social distancing in mind, while others

to the steady increase of fine-dining experiences

core human needs such as safety, significance

pivoted to take-aways or meal-kits. Many of

on-board and with it the proliferation of smaller

and surprise – to reassess the customer journey,

these adaptations could easily be applied to

and more intimate dining spaces helmed by

suggesting light-touch interventions like

existing dining spaces on cruise ships, and the

Michelin-starred chefs. Reflecting this shift,

antimicrobial surfaces and transparent shields,

possibilities for crossover between land and sea

Celebrity Cruises’ forthcoming vessel Celebrity

both of which demonstrate that it is possible

are not only limited to the design process, but

Beyond will feature acclaimed chef Daniel

to retain a level of theatre that has become an

wider product procurement, as can be seen in

Boulud’s first restaurant at sea in the form of

important part of the dining experience.

the growing number of innovative tableware

Le Voyage, a 50-cover dining concept inspired

Elsewhere, hospitality venues have been

and service options. Covered and customisable

by global flavours. MSC Cruises meanwhile

inventive in their concepts, installing pop-up

bento boxes from manufacturers like Craster

boasts chef partnerships with Ramón Freixa,

dining domes, socially-distant greenhouses, or

and MyGlassStudio, for instance, provide

Roy Yamaguchi and pastry chef and chocolatier

in the case of St Moritz Hotel & Spa in Cornwall,

operators with hygienic and safe options for

Jean-Philippe Maury, with the upmarket

a purpose-designed Covid-safe restaurant

serving passengers and tap into a growing trend

dining offer often characterised by small-

known as the Anti-Social Club. The ideas have

for anywhere-anytime dining.

capacity restaurants. But whatever the type of

spanned every corner of the market, from self-

In truth, the cruise sector is already set up

restaurant, cruise lines are having to adapt.

service to fine-dining. Michelin-starred chef

for combatting the spread of disease owing to

Speaking at Seatrade Cruise Virtual, Jacques

Daniel Boulud temporarily converted his New

flu or Sars outbreaks in the past. The thorough

Van Staden, Vice President of Food & Beverage

York flagship into Boulud Sur Mer, a casual pop-

sanitisation of surfaces in restaurants is

at MSC Cruises explains: “One of the biggest

053

successes we’ve seen is our QR-coded menus

Dilley, Director of Jestico + Whiles. “As always

for restaurants and wine lists; it’s really about

with the trends in cuisine, they respond to the

leveraging the mobile devices and technology

particular conditions of time and place. As such,

guests already have. This is something we’re

we are seeing offers inspired by the opportunity

probably going to continue using because we’ve

for being outside with barbeque, smokers and

seen it has been effective across all age groups.”

wood burning adding all kinds of new foods,

Across the sector there’s a noticeable move

P&O Iona features The Glass House, a wine lounge concept designed

by Jestico + Whiles (above), while Norwegian Prima will introduce the Indulge Food Hall (opposite)

054

and a new kind of theatre.”

towards diversification, with the standard

Elsewhere, Carnival Cruise Line’s newest

restaurant replaced by more adventurous

ship, Mardi Gras, reflects the move away from

concepts such as the food hall or immersive

set meal times and formal dining with its casual

dining, as well as grab-and-go and take-away

Italian-themed La Piazza Zone, which will house

options. New concepts reflecting the non-

a variety of food and beverage outlets on the

buffet trend that will soon be open to guests

promenade, including Bar della Rossa serving

on board P&O’s latest addition, the Jestico +

classic cocktails, and Piazza Panini offering

Whiles-designed Iona, include Glass House, a

hand-pressed sandwiches and deli bites.

home for wine connoisseurs featuring a wine

Also diversifying its food options, Norwegian

list curated by Olly Smith. Such concepts are

Cruise Line’s Prima Class will boast the brand’s

being introduced according to evolving tastes

first-ever upscale open-air market place in the

and the wide-range of options available on

form of its Indulge Food Hall as part of the

land. “The creative response to the need for an

expansive Ocean Boulevard, which at 44,000ft2,

inside-outside is particularly exciting and we

wraps around the entire deck. The food hall will

are seeing igloos, pods and bell tents appearing

encompass 11 eateries including a tapas food

in the most unlikely locations,” explains James

truck, while the Boulevard will also host three

APPETITE FOR CHANGE ON WATER

premium dining venues including Onda by Scarpetta,

fast-casual street food dining venue and Indochine, an

Los Lobos and The Local Bar & Grill.

upscale restaurant offering Vietnamese classics with

While new designs and concepts have been years in

a French twist. MSC is also tapping into the trend

the making, operational changes to how passengers

for touch-free food and beverage experiences with its

navigate dining spaces on-board will be imminent.

immersive and futuristic MSC Starship Club, which

“The health, safety and wellbeing of guests and team

will be home to Rob, the first-ever humanoid robotic

members has always been our number one priority,”

bartender at sea.

says Wesley Cort, Vice President, Food & Beverage

Whilst more automated food and beverage

Operations at Norwegian Cruise Line. “With this in

experiences could be on the cards for the next wave of

mind, we will be implementing some changes to our

cruise ships, in the meantime the approach will likely

food and beverage service when we return to sailing:

mirror that of the land-based hospitality sector, with

all buffets and beverage stations will be operating at

a greater focus fast-casual and grab-and-go options,

full service, with staff available to serve guests rather

alongside a selection of smaller fine dining venues and

than guests serving themselves. Likewise, areas will

enhanced in-room experiences. And yet, the industry

be cleaned, sanitised and disinfected at an increased

is unlikely to fully retire the all-you-can-eat buffet

frequency. This will include the use of Electrostatic

anytime soon, instead its Covid-era adaptations will

Spray Technology, which is a new way to apply

have prompted a rethink of how to deliver exceptional

disinfectants in less time and with better coverage

dining experiences on a large scale, especially in a way

than traditional cleaning methods.”

that protects guests’ health and wellbeing, whilst also

Meanwhile, MSC Virtuosa – which already offers

satisfying increasingly discerning appetites.

five speciality restaurants, five main dining rooms, a buffet and 21 bars and lounges – has announced two new speciality dining concepts, Hola! Taco & Cantini, a

055

Turning the Tide An eco-friendly superyacht may seem like an oxymoron, but the industry is navigating towards a sustainable future with a ripple effect on cruise ships.

Words: Lauren Ho

O

n the face of it, the superyacht business, with all its extravagances, might not seem like the most ecoconscious of industries. But with shipyards, owners and designers showing a greater concern for the

environment, it seems change is on the horizon and there’s a steer towards a cleaner, greener future.

In fact, the growing number of eco-friendly superyachts already sailing our seas is proof that consumer demand for going green is on the rise.

Among these is the gleaming 80m Artefact, which German shipyard Nobiskrug outfitted with a hybrid diesel-electric system and smart dynamic positioning that allows for stability without the need for an anchor; the Oceanco-built Black Pearl, said to be one of the world’s most advanced zero-impact superyachts that can reportedly cross the Atlantic without fuel thanks to its three impressive DynaRig carbon masts and a hybrid propulsion system; and the mighty 109m Bravo Eugenia, another pioneering Oceanco offering, which along with its forward-thinking naval architecture, is equipped with a smart hybrid-engine configuration that demonstrates size is not an obstacle when it comes to power and fuel-efficiency.

TURNING THE TIDE ON WATER

Aqua by Sinot is the world’s first hydrogen-powered superyacht promising silent, zero-emission sailing

Futura by Vripack is a fossil-free hybrid designed to run on biofuel made from waste food

A number of sustainability-focused yacht design studios are also thinking big with innovative concepts that show the world it’s possible to be both environmentally-friendly and good looking. “Sustainability has to be regarded as a design challenge,” says Marnix J. Hoekstra, Partner and co-Creative Director at Dutch design studio, Vripack. “We don’t need to wait for yacht owners to request sustainable design. For us, creating something that looks beautiful, performs flawlessly and leaves minimum ecological impact is always at the forefront of our mind.”

“Creating something that looks beautiful, performs flawlessly and leaves minimum ecological impact is always at the forefront of our mind.”

MARNIX J. HOEKSTRA, VRIPACK

chemical process resulting in a lightweight, versatile and hardwearing leather alternative.

“Sustainability within the construction and design of superyachts is integral to ensuring the future of the industry,” continues Dixon.

“We are consistently integrating sustainability conversations within our initial client meetings, developing our own confidence and theirs as we demonstrate that sustainability is synonymous with top-end bespoke design, executed at the highest level.”

In a ripple effect, the cruise industry is

Indeed, the masterminds behind Futura,

also taking a proactive approach towards

Vripack is certainly carving its own path in the

sustainability. A task easier said than done, a

industry. Slender and lightweight with a glass

number of big-name brands are taking things

superstructure, Futura is a fossil-free hybrid

a step further from the usual practices such

designed to run on biofuel made from waste

as banning plastic straws and water bottles,

food and is equipped with revolutionary bio-

by investing in top sustainable technology.

based 100% biodegradable batteries – made

Crystal Endeavor, the new expedition ship

from salt, sand, water and plants and charged

from Crystal Cruises, is kitted-out with

by an electricity-generating kite. Moving away

various water treatment systems – including

from a traditional deck setup, the yacht’s layout

a biological process that cleans wastewater

is versatile, flowing openly with a loft-style split

before it’s discharged back into the sea – and

mezzanine configuration that intertwines and

subaquatic features like environmentally-

interconnects. “Attitudes towards sustainability

friendly lubricants for bow thrusters and

are changing for the better,” says Hoekstra.

stabilisers, a propulsion system specifically designed to reduce lifecycle costs, and smart

“Sustainability is integrated into our industry on many levels and we are really pleased with

design to new levels with Life Worth Living,

offshore dynamic positioning. It is also outfitted

that. Sustainability is our mission; it comes

a three-year road map with the goal to create

with state-of-the-art underwater sonar

included in our products, whether it is requested

a fully sustainable interior. “Winch has been

technology from marine navigation company

or not. We see it as our design obligation.”

working hard to build a rolodex of suppliers

Far Sounder, which helps the ship navigate at

Dutch design firm Sinot meanwhile has made

who offer beautiful alternatives to typically

shallower depths without leaving a trace on

a splash with the unveiling of its game-changing

non-sustainable finishes such as rare woods,

the environment. “Sometimes, the greatest

concept, Aqua, the world’s first hydrogen-

leathers, horn and coral,” says Jim Dixon,

impact comes from making as little impact as

powered superyacht, which promises silent,

Director of Yachts & Aviation. Well on its way

possible,” notes Mark Spillane, Director of Sales

zero-emission sailing that doesn’t scrimp on

to achieving its mission, the firm has, in fact,

& Marketing. “This is the case aboard Crystal

design thanks to a curvaceous five-deck set-up

recently announced its first totally sustainable

ships, where extensive efforts are made every

inspired by the swell of the ocean and featuring

interiors concept for the new Amels 60 range,

day to ensure that waste and other materials

a cascading water-covered staircase. “Our

a series of semi-custom yachts. Revealed

generated on board leave little to no footprint on

challenge was to implement fully operational

through a light, tactile and relaxed beachy

the environments we travel. Our commitment to

liquid hydrogen and fuel cells in a true

aesthetic are ‘corals’ made from eggshells,

sustainability is steadfast while looking at ways

superyacht that is not only groundbreaking in

waste-negative terrazzo-effect ‘marble’ made

to evolve practices and expand capabilities to

technology, but also in design and aesthetics,”

from offcuts of timber, palm wood – a fast-

continuously improve.”

explains its designer, Sander Sinot.

growing, sustainable softwood from the coconut

Aurora Expeditions is equally committed. CEO

palm tree – and pineapple leather, whereby the

Monique Ponfoort comments: “Sustainability

In London, Winch Design is taking interior

058

fruit’s leaves undergo a mechanical and non-

TURNING THE TIDE ON WATER

059

TURNING THE TIDE ON WATER

“Winch has been working hard to build a rolodex of suppliers who offer beautiful alternatives to typically non-sustainable finishes such as rare woods, leathers, horn and coral.”

JIM DIXON, WINCH DESIGN

Winch Design has recently announced its first totally sustainable interiors concept for the new Amels 60 range

060

across the industry is becoming increasingly

on marine wildlife, and is the brand’s first

important. It is key to protect the beautiful,

plastic-free ship. In it for the long run, by 2023,

marine places visited by expedition ships to

the cruise line has plans to increase its energy

ensure that only footprints are left behind and

efficiency by 20%, recycle 85% of its waste, and

only memories are taken away.”

allow its entire fleet to be used for scientific

Indeed, Greg Mortimer, the cruise line’s

research. “Ponant was founded by sailors keen

purpose-built expedition ship is the first

to share their passion for the sea,” says Wassim

passenger vessel to feature the revolutionary

Daoud, Head of Sustainability & CSR. “For more

Ulstein X-Bow, a specially-designed hull – first

than 30 years, we have taken our guests to the

launched by Norwegian ship designer Ulstein –

most secret places on the planet, where nature

that penetrates the waves, creating a smoother,

reigns supreme. This choice brings with it

faster ride, meaning fewer emissions and a 60%

responsibilities towards the environment and

less fuel consumption.

the local populations that we meet. We take our

Awarded most environmentally friendly cruise line by the Nature & Biodiversity

profession and our commitment to promoting sustainable tourism very seriously.”

Conservation Union (NABU) in 2020, French

While it’s true that both the superyacht and

operator Ponant continues to lead the way

cruise industries have a way to go yet, the past

with the recently launched Le Commandant

few years have already seen a rise in technology

Charcot. The world’s first hybrid-electric

and innovation, as well as consumer demand.

polar exploration ship powered by liquefied

This, along with the pioneering spirit and shared

natural gas, the vessel also has two on-board

sustainability mission of shipyards, designers

laboratories for scientific research, a low level

and cruise lines alike will, in time, hopefully

of noise and vibration that reduces the impact

turn the tide.

SHIPPING FORECAST ON WATER

Saving Planet Earth Iconic, intelligent and innovative: the design concept for a groundbreaking science lab-at-sea is revealed.

Bringing together science, technology, adventure and

Njord and Matteo Atti of VistJet are named advisors, as is

exploration in a way that has never been seen before, Earth

Carlos Reyes of Tomas Tillberg Design.

300 is an ambitious initiative designed to tackle the greatest challenge facing planet Earth. Climate change.

Earth 300’s design is the vision of Ivan Salas Jefferson, founder of Iddes Yachts, who is working with Ned Project to

The groundbreaking vessel – set to be the world’s largest

combine elements of cruise ships and luxury yachts with those

research ship – will feature 22 state-of-the-art laboratories

of expedition and research vessels. According to Olivera, the

with 160 leading scientists working in collaboration to bring

architecture is deliberately eyecatching, with notable features

rapid, far-reaching solutions to market. Making use of

being a 13-storey Science Sphere and cantilevered observation

robotics, IOT, AI and quantum computing, the platform will

deck. “Our radical design – iconic, intelligent, aesthetically-

expand knowledge and understanding of the universe, both

pleasing – is intentional. It’s a 300-metre fabrication of the

above and below the ocean’s surface.

future,” he explains. “We want to build a global icon for

“We are living at a pivotal moment in human history, facing the greatest challenge since the dawn of man, so our goal is

science, designed as a sculpture on the seas to capture people’s attention and inspire their imagination.”

to ring the climate alarm on a global scale and inspire an era

While not primarily a hospitality concept, the vessel will be

of ecological imagination, spawning a new brand of planetary

home to four different communities; in addition to the 160

vanguard, ethical leaders who will support a new economic and

scientists, there will be 20 experts-in-residence, 20 students

ecological vision for the world,” explains Earth 300 founder

and 40 guests on board, the latter staying in VIP cabins.

Aaron Olivera, an entrepreneur who brings experience from

The idea is that private citizens with an interest in climate

a range of sectors including hospitality, retail and yachting.

change can embark on a meaningful voyage and witness the

For his latest venture, Olivera has enlisted specialists from

cutting edge of science. “We are combining exploration with

the realms of technology, conservation and science as well as

education so that consumers become contributors,” concludes

luxury transportation, expedition travel and design. Francesco

Olivera. “You will create and imagine with some of the most

Galli Zugaro of Aqua Expeditions, Renato Chizzola of M/Y

eminent thinkers of the day. You’ll make history.”

Spa-at-Sea Skincare brands partner with cruise lines to bring their luxury spa concepts to the seas.

064

With wellness often closely linked to the healing

from plant extracts, marine actives and essential

powers of water, it seems natural that spa and

oils, with the treatments designed to to relax,

skincare brands are taking an interest in the

recharge and promote the body’s restoration. The

cruise sector, seeking to expand their presence

149-suite vessel – designed by Tillberg Design

from land-based projects to those at sea.

of Sweden – will also feature a fitness studio

Espa for example has recently announced

offering group classes and a wellness coach,

a collaboration with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht

as well as a gym kitted-out with Technogym

Collection and will take its maiden voyage on

Personal Line equipment. A range of educational

Evrima in July 2021. The brand, founded by Susan

enrichment seminars will also further deepen the

Harmsworth in 1993 and now part of The Hut

overall wellness offering.

Group, has already had success in the hospitality

The collaboration comes at a time when there’s

sector, starting life as a skincare label before

increased focus on health and wellbeing, and is

expanding to spaces. Now, it has spas at the

in-line with The Ritz-Carlton’s ethos. “We are

likes of Corinthia London, The Peninsula Paris

excited to have collaborated with Espa to bring

and Mandarin Oriental Milan.

our wellness experience to life,” comments

On board Evrima, The Ritz-Carlton Spa will

Douglas Prothero, CEO of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht

offer a carefully crafted menu of treatments and

Collection. “We remain committed to setting

experiences inspired by the sea, with facilities

a new bar in luxury cruising, which includes

including an aroma steam room, sauna and

thoughtful curation of all guest experiences.

indoor and outdoor relaxation areas. Facials,

Espa’s dedication to holistic wellbeing is evident

massages, manicures and pedicures will make

throughout the spa menu and we look forward

use of Espa’s all-natural products formulated

to introducing it to our guests.”

SHIPPING FORECAST ON WATER

Atlas Ocean Voyages has also announced a

L’Occitane’s signature scent. Treatments – such

spa partnership, this time with French skincare

as the popular 90-minute Sleep & Reset Massage

brand L’Occitane en Provence. Set to feature on

– combine hand-performed sequences with the

World Navigator – the first of five new ships from

brand’s extensive product range, made using

the luxe-adventure cruise operator – Sea Spa by

sustainably-sourced ingredients from Provence

L’Occitane will be the first of its kind, joining

in the South of France. Along with the two

land-based outlets at hotels including Sofitel

treatment rooms, there’s a sauna and lounge, the

Dubai The Obelisk and Four Seasons Singapore.

latter offering views of the passing oceanscape

“World Navigator’s Sea Spa by L’Occitane will

through expansive windows. Additionally, all 196

offer experienced, inquisitive and fun-seeking

staterooms and suites will include complimentary

guests the luxury brand’s Mediterranean art-

L’Occitane amenities for guests to enjoy in their

de-vivre with the same top-quality service

en-suite spa bathrooms.

and ingredients for which L’Occitane is world-

With self-care high on the agenda, the

renowned,” notes Mário Ferreira, Chairman of

premium beauty industry has fared better than

Mystic Invest, parent company of Atlas Ocean

most through the pandemic, particularly brands

Voyages. “Our two companies have already been

that combine user experience with natural and

working well together for Mystic Invest’s hotel

sustainable products. For cruise lines, partnering

brands and river vessels, and this is a positive,

with an established name brings a ready-made

organic next step.”

concept with its own catalogue of treatments

Located on Deck 4, the 88m2 space welcomes

and products, and could potentially attract a new

guests to a multi-sensory experience that begins

type of passenger who count themselves loyal

with a footpath ritual and the soothing aroma of

customers of a particular skincare brand.

The Ritz-Carlton Spa on board Evrima is being developed in collaboration with Espa (left) while Atlas Ocean Voyages has partnered with L’Occitane en Provence for World Navigator’s Sea Spa (above)

065

Sunborn’s Superyachts Planning approval granted for environmentally-friendly replacement.

Finnish group Sunborn has been granted planning approval for a new yacht hotel at Royal Victoria Square, which will replace the existing vessel and become one of the most environmentallyfriendly hotels in London. Located in Docklands in the borough of Newham, the existing 132-key property is now under the full management of Sunborn, having been operated in partnership with facility services company ISS for the past 15 years. The acquisition marks the first step in Sunborn’s expansion plans, with the group committed to investing further in the London location and the yacht hotel concept over the coming years. “We’d like to thank ISS for their input and hard work over the last 15 years, as we enter a new era in which the London hotel operations now come into the Sunborn Yacht Hotel family,” comments Marc Skvorc, Chief Operating Officer of Sunborn Yacht Hotels. “With two market leading hotels, the future is bright when we can push past the pandemic. We are developing a new property for the

Mind, Body & Soul

London site with nearly 100 more rooms and state-of-the-art ecological technology. In addition, we are developing new yacht hotels for exciting destinations in North America, including New

A new wellbeing-focused cruise aims to achieve inner balance through culture, cuisine and self-care.

York City and Miami, and other destinations in Europe.”

While some are reinventing their spas with brand partnerships and enhanced facilities, Elixir Boutique Cruises has entered the market with a new concept in which the entire vessel and its experiences are dedicated to wellbeing.

Offering a range of rejuvenating journeys around the Greek Islands, Elysium – a 50-person yacht that has recently undergone an interior refurbishment – takes a holistic approach designed to realign mind, body and soul. Based on ancient Greek principles that state inner balance comes from both a healthy body and a healthy mind, The Elixir Balance Concept encompasses seven activity styles – Relaxing, Active, Wellness, Fitness, Educational, Experiential and Cultural – from which guests can mixand-match according to their needs. A cruise concierge assists in putting personalised plans together, with help from a wellness coach, massage therapists, a yoga instructor and meditation specialist. Along with the 25 cabins, the boutique vessel features a spa, gym and sundeck, as well as a restaurant serving healthy farm-to-table Mediterranean cuisine.

The venture has been developed by a group of cruise aficionados, travel and wellness experts led by company founder and President Ioannis Termidos, who hopes to develop a fleet of such boutique ships offering immersive experiences around the world. “Sensing the overwhelming need for a different approach to boutique cruising post-pandemic, one that combines intimacy and luxury with wellness, we created Elixir Cruises,” crew and cruise concierge along with our resident yoga, meditation and wellness coaches await to welcome guests with a smile and care for their every need and to realign mind, body and soul after the global pandemic.”

066

© Sean Conboy

he explains. “On board our first boutique yacht, the Elysium, our dedicated

SHIPPING FORECAST ON WATER

Step Ashore Studio Dado translate Norwegian Cruise Line’s on-board experience to land, creating a private island escape in the Caribbean.

While hotel groups continue to bring their brand

the open-air environment with elevated design

experiences to the water, movement in the

features, the team opted for an earthy palette

opposite direction has resulted in cruise lines

to harmonise with the surroundings, combining

making their debut on land. In 2019, Norwegian

natural materials such as teak and driftwood with

Cruise Line took their first tentative steps ashore

durable, weather-resistant finishes.

to develop Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas,

Upon entering the lobby, guests are greeted

creating an exclusive private island retreat that is

by a suspended daybed in the reception, setting

now a popular stop-off on a range of itineraries.

the scene for a relaxing travel encounter. The

Featuring accommodation, restaurants, bars and

38 studios, one- and two-bedroom villas offer a

lounges, the resort was an opportunity for NCL to

luxury hotel experience and feature sliding glass

enhance its offering, with the spaces serving as

doors that open directly out to the terrace for

an extension of the amenities on board its ships.

a seamless indoor-outdoor experience. There’s

In bringing the venture to life, NCL looked to

also a lounge, dining table and bathroom, where

Miami-based interior design firm Studio Dado,

guests can refresh before returning to the ship.

tapping into their experience on both water and

Since opening, Great Stirrup Cay has been

land, and safe in the knowledge that the team

a resounding success for NCL. Studio Dado’s

are familiar with the Norwegian aesthetic having

Founding Partner Yohandel Ruiz comments:

developed a number of spaces aboard Encore.

“Our team overcame each logistical challenge of

At Great Stirrup Cay, Studio Dado were

designing on an island and seamlessly delivered

presented with the challenge of translating a

a land-based experience that thoughtfully

coveted sea-based brand into a land-based

complements the NCL brand and style guests

experience. Pairing material functionality in

have come to know on-board.”

067

SHIPPING FORECAST ON WATER

Introducing...

CSI Plus Organisers of Cruise Ship Interiors Expo launch an online platform designed to support the supply chain.

The world’s first platform exclusively created

after a challenging year, CSI Plus puts networking

for the cruise interiors industry has arrived.

at the heart of its concept. Cruise lines, shipyards

Designed and developed to meet the needs of

and design studios can view the latest interactive

the entire cruise interiors supply chain, CSI

catalogues, product launches and projects from

Plus brings networking opportunities, product

the outfitters and suppliers they would like to

sourcing and exclusive industry reports to a

partner with. Outfitters and suppliers can reach

members-only community.

up the supply chain too, using credits to contact

“CSI Plus supports your project from start to finish,” explains Toby Walters, CEO of Elite

innovative products and services.

Exhibitions, the company behind the series

Members have exclusive access to content

of Cruise Ship Interiors Expo events in North

uniquely available on CSI Plus. The popular

America and Europe. “It’s home to the world’s

webinar series Cruise Conversations, featuring

first CSI Plus Approved Makers List, so whatever

insight from industry leaders, is now hosted

the challenge of your project, the solution can be

monthly on the platform along with all-new

found on CSI Plus.”

regular roundtables. Insider information with

Hosted on the site and available to download,

monthly interviews and White Papers profiling

The Makers List and comprehensive Member’s

the future of cruise interiors design are also

Directory showcase leading and new-to-the-

available; the platform’s first industry report

market suppliers across all sectors of the cruise

analysing trends and forecasts across the

interiors industry, meaning that members can

refurbishment and newbuild markets is out

access products at the push of a button.

now. To find out more about joining the CSI Plus

And in a bid to bring the industry back together

068

the companies they know need to see their

community, visit CSI-Plus.com.

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SHIPPING FORECAST ON WATER

As newcomers, what can you bring to the

and smaller than hotel guestrooms so we used

cruise ship design industry?

light colours and open bathrooms. The vessel

We are an experienced hospitality design studio

will feel more spacious and, at the same time,

having designed more than 500 hotels ranging

more intimate with individual areas such as a

from budget to luxury. So far, we have only

wintergarden and a casual restaurant that could

completed land-based projects, but thanks to the

work just as well on land in a city.

© Jenner Egberts

connections made in the hotel world, we’ve been asked to work on cruise ships. We believe that the

What challenges have you faced?

elements passengers value at sea are similar to

Coming from land-based projects, there are

those on land, so feel we can introduce new social

many different challenges. Cruise ships are

and value-oriented components on a cruise ship

extremely complex and space is tight. Materials

that go beyond functionality and entertainment.

and certifications are different, even the toilets work differently than they do on land! Other

What lessons can you transfer from land-

challenges include navigating the number of

based hotels to cruise ships?

experts involved in single boat and cost-pressures

In recent years, hotels have changed from being

due to the quantity of cabins. We wouldn´t have

From Hotels to the High Seas Differentiation is the future of the cruise ship industry, say Joi-Design, who are bringing their land-based expertise to the water.

‘everyone’s darling’ to specialised products.

been able to manage this without being lucky

This process has also occurred in the cruise ship

enough to hire two experienced senior designers.

industry. I can easily imagine that these floating cities could become real cities with different

Have you made any significant changes to your

areas for different crowds, such as the bohemian

designs as a result of Covid-19?

dreamer, the luxury-oriented hedonist, party

We were approached by a client to develop

people, experience-searchers and even open-

protection shields for the lobby, restaurant and

minded ecologists. They would each have their

reception areas of a cruise ship, creating features

own zone and then mingle in a shared hub.

that are part of the interior design scheme rather

Entertainment can combine with experiences,

than just acrylic screens. In the future, we will

and materials can be elevated from merely

react to guests’ new mindsets by reducing

functional to being ecological and emotional.

touchpoints and creating hygienic zones, but at the same time, maintaining social spots where

What can guests expect from your next ship?

people can mingle.

We’re currently designing a new river boat for

070

Arosa, which will sail the Rhine. They were

Where do you see cruise ship design headed

specifically looking to commission a hotel

in the future?

designer to set new standards and attract younger

We believe the creative concepts found in boutique

clientele without losing their existing guests. In

hotels will transfer to the cruise ship market, but

response, we developed a fresh, youthful concept

they might be ecological, nature-based, black and

with a more natural look that also functions well

white or anything in-between. Differentiation is

for families. Staterooms are still ship cabins

the next adventure for cruise ship design.

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T

o be a true trendsetter – an innovator

and this got us thinking… Just how can we

rather than a follower – we always need

utilise ugly ducktails to become a desirable vessel

to creatively push the boundaries, coming

feature?

up with solutions or design features that in turn

Project Blue Sky has allowed us to explore such

have a positive impact on the guest experience.

a concept. When designing a newbuild cruise

Project Blue Sky has enabled us to do this.

ship, one of the things that struck us during

At SMC Design, the entire team have pooled

our early discussions was just how to connect

their skills to explore fresh ideas, allowing

our guests with the sea environment they have

ourselves the creative freedom to delve into

chosen as a vacation. Many of the super-class

design in a deeper, more profound way.

cruise vessels currently being designed fail to

The resulting Project Blue Sky takes the

physically make that connection to the ocean. In

same approach as the fashion world, in which

some cases, guest access is as far as 10 metres

extraordinary couture creations push the

from the waterline, and there’s no admittance

boundaries of design and make a statement on

below decks 2 or 3.

the catwalk, yet rarely make it to the high street.

SMC’s idea is to innovatively elongate the

What they do very successfully, is open up the

ducktail in an effort to allow guests closer access

Blue Sky Thinking We know we’ve created something special when we provide guests with an experience they never even knew they desired, say SMC Design.

Words: Alan Stewart, SMC Design

sector to new thinking and build a platform for

to the waterline… Yes, I know, we’ve spent way

future collections. Project Blue Sky emulates this

too many hours objecting to the architectural

high-concept way of designing, and at the same

aesthetic proportions of ugly ducktails, and now

time allows us to address real issues, such as:

with project Blue Sky we’re actually requesting

how do we utilise an ugly ducktail? Or how do we

to have much larger one!

develop more sustainable design solutions for an ever-changing, greener cruise sector?

THE DUCKTAIL

particularly from a guest experience point of view, creating deck space that allows for a

For many years now we have seen an increasing

connection to the ocean once more. Our Blue

popularity of the introduction of ‘ducktails’

Sky Marina concept certainly ticks all the boxes

to the sterns of vessels. Such features have

and creates a hospitality environment like we’ve

become common practice in modern exterior

never seen before. In the words of our Managing

hull design of both newbuild and refit sectors

Director Andy Yuill: “We know we’ve created

alike. Never aesthetically a desirable feature,

something special when we provide our guests

hydrodynamically their benefits are too great to

with an experience they never even knew they

be ignored. They are introduced to benefit vessels

desired from a cruise vacation.”

by improving the wake and hydrodynamic flow.

This means vessels gain from a propulsion point of view, and in fuel conservation.

The introduction of ducktails is something we love statistically, however aesthetically despise

072

So long as the vessel’s trim is maintained, the elongated ducktail brings new benefits,

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12.05.21 09:27

MAIDEN VOYAGE ON LAND

Virgin Hyperloop Unveils Passenger Experience Vision It’s one of the most anticipated mass transportation systems of

“Virgin Hyperloop can accelerate the future of mobility on

a generation, set to revolutionise the way we travel and reduce

land. The new mode of travel at supersonic speed rethinks

lengthy commutes to mere minutes; and having successfully

transportation and the perception of space, landscape, time

completed test-runs with humans on board, Virgin Hyperloop

and distance,” says Bjarke Ingels, founder and Creative Director

has now revealed its vision for the passenger experience.

of BIG. “In this day and age, Virgin Hyperloop taking off from

“Designing a new mode of transportation from scratch is both

our portals provides holistic, intelligent transportation for a

an opportunity and a responsibility,” comments Sara Luchian,

globalised community to travel across vast distances in a safer,

Virgin Hyperloop’s Director of Passenger Experience and one of

cleaner, easier and faster way than airlines.”

the first people to ride the vehicle last November. “Hyperloop

For the pods, Teague worked to the guiding principles

technology – and what it enables – is paradigm-shifting. It

of being mindful, sustainable and welcoming, believing

follows that the passenger experience should be nothing short

that the interiors should feel more akin to hospitality than

of extraordinary.”

transportation. “We leveraged decades of experience designing

Together with partners from disparate industries

how people and things move across various modalities – taking

– including Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) for the portal

some of the best aspects from aviation, rail, automotive and

designs, Teague for the pod designs, See Three for the video and

even hospitality to create a new and better passenger experience

animation, and Man Made Music for the score and sonic identity

that is distinct to Virgin Hyperloop,” explains John Barratt,

– Virgin Hyperloop has created a multi-sensory environment

CEO and President, Teague. “Recessed seat wells provide a

for a greener, smoother, safer and more pleasant mass transit

greater sense of space, while the raised aisle is a touch of the

experience.

unexpected and unique. Bands of greenery and wood textures

subvert the aesthetic of typical mass transit materials

sound quicker than any other sense, so sound actually

with something optimistic and fresh. All lighting in the

drives multi-sensory experiences. The sonic cues of the

pod – including the unassuming information displays –

Virgin Hyperloop identity system serves as a guide for

are dynamic and adjust based on traveller activity and

passengers throughout their experience while instilling

journey milestones.”

confidence, safety and clarity – you ‘feel’ it rather than

A neutral palette of warm greys pairs with textures

A key pillar of Virgin Hyperloop’s vision is accessibility,

technology only reveals itself when there’s a message

ensuring that the new form of transportation expands

to convey. Teague also implemented a dynamic ambient

opportunities for the masses. While ticket prices will

lighting system and opened up the space with a virtual

vary depending on the route, a recent study found that

skylight that simulates the time of day.

fares would be more akin to the cost of driving than

Beyond the typical touchpoints in transportation,

076

‘hear’ it. Just like a great movie score, it tells the story.”

and sustainably-sourced materials, while concealed

flying. “It’s simple. If it’s not affordable, people won’t

Virgin Hyperloop also researched and incorporated

use it,” concludes Jay Walder, CEO of Virgin Hyperloop.

findings from more non-traditional interactions,

“Daily high-speed transport is currently not feasible

such as sound. “Through proprietary research and a

for most people, but we want to change that notion.

design thinking approach to creating sound and sonic

Imagine being able to commute between cities that

solutions for Virgin Hyperloop, Man Made Music was

are currently hours apart in minutes – and the endless

able to address myriad potential challenges for this

possibilities that opens up.”

new mode of transportation, from how to evoke a

Following successful passenger testing, Virgin is

sense of privacy and space to an enhanced sense of

paving the way for hyperloop systems around the world;

safety and calm,” explains Joel Beckerman, founder and

the company aims to achieve safety certification by

Lead Composer at Man Made Music. “We respond to

2025, with commercial operations beginning in 2030.

MAIDEN VOYAGE ON LAND

Road Trip Heatherwick Studio launches an environmentallyfriendly electric car that transforms into a multifunctional living space.

With a global shortage of living space, developers are

there’s a greater factor. “Airo isn’t simply another

increasingly looking to innovative design solutions to

electric car that doesn’t pollute the air. Instead, using

create multi-functional spaces for work, rest and play.

the latest HEPA filter technology, it goes further by also

Having become common practice in residential and

vacuuming-up pollutants from other cars as it drives

hospitality projects, the idea is now gaining ground

along,” he explains. “Designed to simultaneously

in the automotive sector, as shown by Heatherwick

address the global space shortage, Airo is also a multi-

Studio’s unveiling of Airo.

functional room with extra space for dining, working,

Designed for IM Motors, the vehicle features a

gaming or even sleeping. As a new room for our lives,

customisable interior that can be configured in a

with a changing view, Airo is a car intended to transport

variety of ways to serve the needs of the traveller as

us to a cleaner and better future.”

they take to the road. A foldaway screen transforms the

Stuart Wood, Partner and Group Leader at

space into a gaming pod, while the seats rotate from

Heatherwick Studio, adds: “Transportation and mobility

a traditional driving position to face inwards for social

are not only going through a technological revolution

activities – such as dining on the four-leaf table. Come

but also a social one. There’s a new ethically conscious

nightfall, the table folds away and the contoured seats

generation who expect a car to do so much more than

fully recline to form a spacious double bed, and thanks

just offer transportation from one place to another;

to the latest technology, the fully-glazed roof becomes

they want a device that fulfils and expands upon their

opaque on command for total privacy.

functional needs and meets their values. Until now,

The fully electric vehicle comes with autonomous and

the functionality of a car has been narrowly defined as

driver-controlled modes and the interiors have been

a fuel and space guzzling luxury that none of us can

designed with the utmost attention to detail. But for

afford to continue. We conceived Airo to re-imagine

Thomas Heatherwick, founder of Heatherwick Studio,

the lifestyle-car-environment balance.”

077

The Year of Rail Winding their way through city and countryside, a host of new trains are reinventing the romance of rail travel for the 21st century.

Recent launches on the tracks include (left to right) Kyushu Railway Company’s 36+3, Rocky Mountaineer’s glass-domed coaches, and Anantara’s The Vietage

078

Once a means of transport for only the wealthy,

has further committed to investing in expanding

train travel over the years has broadened its

its rolling stock, having recently acquired its first

scope; advances in engineering have resulted in

two state-of-the-art Bombardier TRAXX MS3

faster, more efficient commuters while, at the

multi-system locomotives.

other end of the spectrum, a growing desire for

In North America, Rocky Mountaineer has

leisurely experiences has seen a return to the

added a new route between Denver, Colorado, and

romance of rail.

Moab, Utah on board its glass-domed coaches.

In recent months, investment on the tracks

The luxury fleet was unveiled in 2019 and

has given rise to new carriages and experiences

expanded in 2020 due to popular demand, with

across Europe, the Americas and Asia, with both

the project marking the company’s largest capital

the business and leisure traveller in mind. In

investment in its 30-year history. With a focus on

Europe, RegioJet and Dutch start-up European

passenger comfort and experience, the coaches

Sleeper are planning a new night train connecting

were developed in collaboration with Stadler

Prague, Berlin, Amsterdam and Brussels. Slated

and feature improved suspension, redesigned

to launch in 2022, the venture supports the

galley kitchens, and heated composite-leather

pan-European initiative for the development

seats that recline without impacting the guest

of an environmentally-friendly night train,

behind and can spin 180 degrees for a more

and is in line with the EU’s 2021 Year of Rail

social setting. The highlight however is the

enterprise, which highlights the benefits of rail as

domed windows that extend overhead on the

a sustainable, smart and safe means of transport.

upper level of the train, allowing for panoramic

RegioJet’s trains will offer seating as well as

views of the snow-capped peaks of the Rockies.

sleeping compartments, and the private carrier

Using a similar technology to that seen on yachts

MAIDEN VOYAGE ON LAND

and private jets, the windows can be dimmed

And as hotel groups continue to look to

to moderate the intensity of incoming sunlight.

transportation for a door-to-door travel

through Indo-China influences in the materials and colourways. Soft furnishings in earthy

While Rocky Mountaineer was forced to cancel

experience, Minor Hotels has launched a luxury

tones complement the landscape, while wooden

its 2020 season, the operator believes that with

railway journey connecting two of its resorts in

features and warm textiles channel a sense of

the new route and carriages, not to mention the

Vietnam. Departing from Danang and available

calm; a selection of prints by Hoi An-based

natural beauty of the region, travel will return.

as a package with accommodation at Anantara

photographer Réhahn further remind guests of

“We have high hopes for the preview season of our

Hoi An and Anantara Quy Nhon Villas, The

their surroundings. Crew uniforms have been

newest rail route in the Southwest USA, Rockies

Vietage journeys through city and countryside,

paid special attention too, created by Vietnamese

to the Red Rocks,” comments Peter Armstrong,

immersing its guests in Vietnamese culture,

fashion designer Tom Trandt and inspired by

founder and interim CEO of Rocky Mountaineer.

nature and history along the six-hour route.

traditional national costume, with column-style

“We are seeing a strong interest from travellers

Stepping aboard the 12-person carriage,

with some high-demand dates nearing capacity,

passengers are transported back to an age of

embroidery added to imitate railway tracks.

Separating the carriage’s six private booths are

and signs are pointing to a strong US domestic

romantic rail travel through elegant interiors by

a series of semi-transparent partitions crafted

travel season for the year ahead.”

Le Ha Hoang, Director of ShapeUs Studio in Ho

from locally-sourced rattan, which provide an

Operators in Asia meanwhile are seeking

Chi Minh City, who was also behind Anantara

element of seclusion while maintaining an airy

to reinvent the romance of rail travel. Japan’s

Hoi An’s restaurant, bar and art gallery. Large

feel. When passengers do want to let off some

Kyushu Railway Company has launched 36+3, a

picture windows flood the carriage in natural

steam, they can take a seat at the semi-circular

restored train that takes a circular route around

light and frame the passing scenery, which is

shaped, black marble bar and enjoy cocktails,

the island of Kyushu, with carriages – housing

best enjoyed from the comfort of the plush seats

local craft beers, wines and snacks, or unwind

a lounge, snack bar and private compartments

designed to be more like individual armchairs

with a head and shoulder treatment in one of the

– fully refitted with tatami flooring, intricately

than the standard 2+2 formation of commuters.

wellness area’s spa-style chairs – just the ticket

carved woodwork and jewel-hued upholstery.

The design scheme also hints at a bygone era

before arriving at their final destination.

079

Enchanted Escapes A new InterContinental resort in Thailand is set to feature suites in repurposed train carriages.

080

A charismatic storyteller, Bill Bensley is famed

While the majority of the 61 guestrooms

for bringing drama, character and a sense of

occupy built structures, 16 suites have been

adventure to the hotels he designs. In Vietnam,

designed within upcycled train cars for a unique

Hôtel de la Coupole tells the tale of French

stay. Bensley was inspired by the area’s rich

fashionistas living amongst the hill tribes, while

history as a gateway for rail transportation

in Bali, Capella Ubud recalls shipwrecked Dutch

during King Rama V’s reign, and has developed

settlers arriving on shore and pitching their

individual schemes relating to travel routes

tents. Bensley’s latest saga is inspired by the

across the continent, from Vietnam and Laos

travels of a former train conductor, who now

to Myanmar and Singapore. Suites feature cosy

lives in the lap of luxury in abandoned carriages

living quarters and canopied outdoor space, some

deep in the forest.

with a freestanding bathtub amongst nature.

Set to open late 2021, the InterContinental

Separate carriages will be transformed into a spa

resort is located in Khao Yai National Park, a

and tea house, while the main dining experience,

UNESCO World Heritage Site two hours’ drive

Somsri’s Kitchen, is named after the spirited

from Bangkok. According to IHG, the resort will

mother of the conductor.

offer a genuine sense of connection to nature

Bensley and his team have brought to life over

with views over mountains, lakes, flora and

200 hotels in 30 countries, but this could well be

fauna from across the 100-acre site. Facilities

the first with a train on site. “No two projects we

include a club lounge, resort centre with dining

design are alike,” he notes. “We strive hard to

options, a swimming pool and gym, though it’s

put our clients first and foremost and in doing

the repurposed train carriages that really capture

so create places which are unique to their context

the imagination.

and story.”

MAIDEN VOYAGE ON LAND

081

AutoCamp CAPE COD Pioneers of outdoor hospitality bring their custom Airstreams to the East Coast.

Words: Eleanor Howard • Photography: © Matt Kisiday

I

n 2013, entrepreneurs Neil Dipaolo and Ryan Miller started an initiative to offer renovated Airstream trailers as lowincome housing on a residential park in Santa Barbara.

At the time, it was something of an experiment to gauge interest in the outdoor lifestyle. But as word spread, demand grew and travellers began requesting overnight stays as a unique getaway; and so, AutoCamp was born.

Since then, the California-based company has made a name for itself in outdoor hospitality, attracting a legion of adventurers and winning the coveted New Concept of the Year award at AHEAD Americas 2019. A well-negotiated balance between luxury hospitality and nature, the campsite-hotel hybrid comprises amenities such as a lounge and events space within built structures, and dotted across the site, the star attraction - overnight accommodation within classic Airstream caravans.

For Dipaolo and Miller, Airstream was an easy choice of partner; the distinctive shape and polished aluminium coachwork of the trailer a noteworthy draw, not to mention the heritage of the brand. “In the 1930s, the Airstream made the outdoor lifestyle accessible by combining the ruggedness of camping and the comforts of modern design,” explains AutoCamp Design Director Will Spurzem. “Its creator, Wally Byam, led famous caravan voyages to the wildest places on Earth and his invention made it possible to bring all the comforts of a hotel room on their journeys. AutoCamp continues this legacy in the 21st century, encouraging our

082

VOYAGE ON LAND

083

Combining luxury hospitality with nature, the custom Airstreams feature a Mid-Century Modern aesthetic

guests to immerses themselves in nature and

twist on the traditional American coastal town

explore iconic destinations.”

look. “Our overall aesthetic is based on Mid-

Having found success with campsites in

Century Modern design, which is rooted in

California’s Yosemite National Park and

indoor-outdoor living with a mix of natural and

Sonoma County, AutoCamp has ventured

contemporary finishes,” says Spurzem. “Warm

east, opening its third outpost in Cape Cod,

tones, clean lines and natural materials are a

Massachusetts. Located close to the shore, the

timeless combination. We have walnut flooring,

new addition features the signature Clubhouse –

ceramic tile, natural stone and ultra-durable

incorporating a cosy lounge, events spaces and

solid surface countertops.”

shower rooms – with a Mid-Century Modern aesthetic designed by APD/Workshop.

084

In the bedroom, a queen-sized Tempur-Pedic bed is surrounded by wraparound windows to

The accommodation offer includes seasonal

maximise the views of nature. The living area

tented suites and 88 Airstreams, the latter

is designed to work as a versatile space with

of which are custom-designed in a bid to set

flexible furniture such as a sofa bed. In addition

them apart from the increasingly saturated

to a modern kitchenette kitted-out with a

glamping market. “Our primary goal was to

microwave, mini-fridge and cookware, each

create an environment that is the right mix of

trailer also comes with a private deck furnished

luxury, amenities and fun,” explains Spurzem.

with a firepit and BBQ accessories.

“We operate in a unique niche between rustic

Perhaps the most impressive customisation is

camping and luxury hospitality that allows us

the bathrooms – arguably the most important

to borrow from both extremes.”

amenity in any glamping experience. The

This niche is encapsulated in the Airstream

standard fit-out has been replaced by spa-

design concept, which puts a contemporary

inspired bathrooms complete with walk-in

VOYAGE ON LAND

showers, full vanities, white marble finishes

allows us to create the right balance of privacy

and all-natural toiletries.

and minimise our impact on the land.”

Still, the nature of trailer accommodation

What AutoCamp’s founders couldn’t have

means space is a prized commodity. So, how do

foreseen back in 2013 was Coronavirus and

the team go about maximising square-footage

its lasting impact, which has resulted in an

without sacrificing on luxury? “It’s all about

overwhelming surge in demand for self-

finding the right balance of space and storage

contained units that allow for social distancing.

so that we can offer a great experience, but

Unlike traditional hospitality, which has been

still have a really clean interior free of clutter,”

hard hit over the past year, AutoCamp may well

says Spurzem. “We carefully planned for every

find itself in a better position now than when

amenity by mapping out the guest experience

it began. Has the global pandemic accelerated

and refining it with every new location. We

the group’s development plans? “All AutoCamp

continually gather feedback and data from

properties are designed with personal space in

guests, our housekeeping and maintenance

mind and offer a naturally safe and socially-

teams, and use that information to make every

distant experience aimed to help guests escape

new version a little better.”

the crowds and bring them closer to nature,”

The site plan ensures each unit is set far

states Spurzem. “Currently, outdoor adventure

enough apart for guests to feel at one with

remains on the upward trajectory and AutoCamp

nature, yet close enough to retain a sense of

is in a continual growth pattern.”

community if they so wish. “Our sites are

He concludes: “As pioneers of this industry,

designed for a static number of suites across

we’re excited to continue to open new properties

the property and the utility systems are scaled

that encourage travellers to experience the great

appropriately,” continues Spurzem. “This

American landscape.”

085

Camp Hox THE HOXTON The Hoxton launches a series of curated campervan experiences on board a fully-equipped Volkswagen Transporter.

Words: Catherine Martin • Photography: Courtesy of Ennismore

S

ince making its debut back in 2006, The Hoxton

with complimentary beers, wines and soft drinks. Camping

has shown flair for creating hotels with character,

chairs, Temple bikes for off-road excursions and holiday

combining its open-house concept with inventive

essentials such as a beach ball and playing cards are also

dining and cultural partnerships to the serve the needs

provided, as is a full trip itinerary with recommendations

of travellers and locals alike. Guestrooms are just the

for rambles, sightseeing, picnic spots and more.

right mix of cosy and chic, while public spaces are vibrant

The four-day UK adventure – Roll on Rolling Hills – takes

neighbourhood hangouts with an eclectic programme of

travellers to East Sussex to cruise along the coast, hitting up

events unique to each location.

off-the-beaten path beauty spots and staying on a working

In 2019, the brand ventured into the co-working space with

farm with pigs, donkeys and ponies for neighbours. The

dedicated studios, meeting rooms and hot desks available

itinerary then heads through some of England’s oldest

for rent, while in 2020, with hotels shuttered, it launched

towns and local vineyards, before reaching the Kent Riviera

Camp Hox – a pop-up glamping experience in the meadows

in search of oysters. The final night, included in the price,

of an Oxfordshire country estate. A direct response to the

is at any of The Hoxton’s three London hotels.

pandemic, the sell-out 12-tent camp ran for the month

The experience is also available in four of The Hoxton’s

of August, offering a few days escape from the stresses of

markets – France, Netherlands and USA – the latter travelling

daily life. And now, with its unfaltering commitment to

in a Mercedes Sprinter through California’s coast and wine

originality, The Hoxton has taken to the road for its first

country, finishing up at The Hoxton Downtown Los Angeles.

mobile hospitality experience.

086

Speaking about the move into campervans, The Hoxton’s

A brand of Ennismore – the company founded by Sharan

Chief Marketing Officer Martina Luger explains: “Last

Pasricha and now part of Accor’s newly-formed lifestyle

summer we pulled Camp Hox together in record time and it

division – The Hoxton are experts in curating spaces and

was incredibly popular and well received. We love the idea

implementing a sense of place. Having got their hands on a

of being able to take The Hoxton experience outside of our

fleet of Volkswagen Transporters (T6), the in-house design

four walls and explore what that might look like, allowing

team set about introducing signature touches from the

us to curate not just a space but a whole Hoxton-curated

10-strong portfolio of hotels. Each van features a Roberts

adventure for our guests.” She concludes: “This year’s

radio loaded with a Hoxton-curated playlist, Hoxton linen

campervan experience strives to celebrate the idea of getting

and towels, and Blank toiletries to use and keep. Dining is

back out there exploring, and responds to what people are

taken care of thanks to a portable Weber BBQ, an Origin coffee

really wanting and needing right now. We can’t wait to see

machine and freshly ground beans, and a well-stocked fridge

the adventures unfold.”

VOYAGE ON LAND

087

MAIDEN VOYAGE IN THE AIR

Drive & Fly Introducing Aska, an aerial mobility vehicle designed for both road and air.

“To build a better society and a better economy, we

size of a large SUV and can be driven like a regular car or

need better transportation solutions, and flying cars

parked in a standard parking bay. To transition to flight

will be a part of that equation,” say Guy and Maki

mode, it extends its wings and lifts off vertically from a

Kaplinsky, the co-founders of NFT Inc, a Silicon Valley

designated vertipad; although pilot training is needed to

innovator with an ambitious vision to reshape the

operate in the air, flying is made simple through semi-

future of transportation.

autonomous technologies.

The team of aerospace and automotive engineers,

Aska has a flight range of up to 250 miles powered by

aerodynamics experts and flight control specialists

electric motors and is equipped with a range extender

have been developing their concept for the past three

as a redundant safety system. “We have focused

years, and the resulting model – known as Aska – is

significantly on Aska’s safety elements, which include

now available for pre-order with a 2026 delivery date.

dual energy sources, large wings, large propellers, and a

Thought to be a world-first, the electric vertical take-

six-pack of batteries to ensure it is as safe in the air as it

off and landing (eVTOL) vehicle offers the freedom to

is on the ground,” concludes Kaplinsky. “We anticipate

travel by road or in the air thanks to its revolutionary

that flying cars that are accessible to the general public

hybrid design, enabling people to live in a rural

will be as instrumental in redefining how and where we

environment and quickly and easily commute to the

live as the original automobile was to the foundation of

city centre door-to-door. The four-seater vehicle is the

our country’s highway and road systems.”

MAIDEN VOYAGE IN THE AIR

MAIDEN VOYAGE IN THE AIR

Treetop Tourism EHang partners with Giancarlo Zema Design Group to build an ecosustainable vertiport as an aerial hub for tourists.

Urban air mobility is perhaps one of the most

restaurant offering panoramic views of the

significant advances in transportation in recent

surrounding landscape, with the venture opening

years, with electric vertical take-off and landing

up opportunities for a range of facilities including

(eVTOL) aircraft capable of reducing road

bars, events spaces and even accommodation.

congestion and cutting pollution. And while the

GZDG’s concept will serve EHang’s electric

technology and investment for such vehicles is

passenger-grade autonomous aerial vehicles,

in place, there’s a notable lack of infrastructure

which have been designed as an eco-friendly,

to serve the sector.

low-altitude,

transportation solution. They feature a double-

specialist in autonomous aerial vehicles – has

curved windshield for wider vision and a better

partnered with Italian architecture firm Giancarlo

view, a luggage trunk and ergonomic seats

Zema Design Group (GZDG) to develop a vertiport

inspired by F1 sports cars.

in Italy.

EHang and GZDG believe that their vertiports

Inspired by Africa’s native Baobab tree, GZDG

can serve as aerial hubs for tourists, taking the

created a 30m-high tower topped by a podium,

pressure off densely-packed urban zones where

with the steel structure wrapped in vertical

street-level development space is hard to come

bands of curving laminated wood. The vertiport

by. They aim to take their concept global with

is clad in photovoltaic panels that can generate

sites planned in Europe and Southeast Asia,

over 300kW of electric power per day, while the

introducing transport solutions and public

platform is equipped with fully independent

facilities at each destination.

plug-and-play ports that can be used to recharge EHang’s passenger-grade vehicles.

The take off-and-landing platform is set on the rooftop above a café, waiting room and 200m2

090

short-and-medium-haul

With that in mind, EHang Holdings – a

New exhibitor category: Healthcare & Infection Prevention Limited spaces available book your stand now

GETTING READY FOR A NEW ERA Interior Design, Equipment and Technology for the Cruise & Ferry Industry 8 – 10 September 2021, Hamburg marineinteriors-expo.com How will the interior design of passenger ships adapt to new requirements? What will remain? What will inspire us anew?

Be there when the cruise industry’s most innovative protagonists present their ideas and meet the decision makers of the world’s leading cruise and ferry lines, shipyards, architecture offices and interior design studios in a first-class ecosphere for business and networking.

Co-located with

Mid-Air Meet-Up This year’s Crystal Cabin Awards entrants take-on the challenges of in-flight socialising, passenger comfort and sustainability to present the future of flying.

092

Celebrating innovation in the air, the Crystal

Lozano Robledo of the University of Cincinnati,

Cabin Awards took place in March with the top

winner in the University category. Developed

prizes going to those pushing the boundaries in

with Boeing and the Live Well Collaborative, the

on-board products, systems and technologies.

concept features a long table for meetings and

Despite the global pandemic causing

coffee breaks, and allows passengers to have

widespread disruption – grounding flights and

their own personal workspace during flight.

keeping people apart – a number of the concepts

Retractable screens at the centre of each table

presented were designed to bring travellers

provide a partition for privacy when required,

together in new ways.

with the seats able to rotate to face forward for

In the Visionary Concepts category, Airbus

safe take-off and landing.

was triumphant with its Airspace Cabin Vision

Other projects to make the shortlist include

2030, which shows what the future of flying

Adient Aerospace’s SFA (Space For All) concept,

could look like. Cabin layouts will boast more

which transforms a row of seats into a lie-flat

flexible seating and sleeping configurations,

surface for parents and children to sleep or play;

while in-flight bars and lounges provide space

and the Virgin Atlantic Upper Class Loft, created

for socialising. According to Airbus, passengers

for the airline’s first A350-1000 and offering the

will have more choice and the flexibility to select

largest social space across the fleet.

a personalised flight experience based on their

Elsewhere in the awards scheme, sustainability

individual needs, whether they are travelling for

was a key focus. In the Greener Cabin, Health,

business or leisure, alone or with family.

Safety & Environment category, Diehl Aviation

Also catering to the idea of bringing passengers

won for its Greywater Reuse Unit, which sees

together is Coffee House Cabin by Alejandro

waste water from the handbasin reused to flush

MAIDEN VOYAGE IN THE AIR

the lavatory. As a result, the aircraft has to carry

that can be seamlessly integrated into any cabin

less water reserves, making it significantly

design. And finally French aerospace company

lighter; for a Boeing 787, this means savings

Safran, which picked up three awards: its

of up to 550 tonnes of CO2 per year. Priestman

Modulair S economy seat with eight-way headrest

Goode was shortlisted in this category too,

and built-in tablet holder was triumphant in

for its lightweight meal tray in which every

the Passenger Comfort Hardware category; the

component is made from edible, biodegradable

Sophy smart trolley solution won in the Cabin

or commercially compostable materials.

Systems category; and Rave Bluetooth, promising

Also focusing on green solutions are Eviation

uninterrupted transmission throughout the

Aircraft and Alma Design, who won in the Cabin

aircraft, took home the prize in the In-Flight

Concepts category for an electric commuter

Entertainment & Connectivity category.

jet. Known as Alice Commuter, the aircraft is

The awards were judged by a panel of aircraft

capable of carrying nine passengers a distance

interiors experts including representatives from

of 1,000km and operates at a fraction of the cost

Qantas, Delta, Etihad, Lufthansa, Singapore

of conventional jets. According to the team, the

Airlines and British Airways, with this year’s

zero-emissions concept will redefine how people

ceremony taking place virtually. In view of the

travel regionally and usher in a new era of flying

pandemic and its impact on air travel, organisers

that is quieter, cleaner and cost-effective.

have announced the addition of two further

Other Crystal Cabin Awards winners included

categories – Clean & Safe Air Travel and the

e2ip Technologies in the Material & Components

Judges’ Choice Award – which will be presented

category, with the printed electronics specialist

at the Aircraft Interiors Expo, now due to take

impressing with its In-Mold Electronics panel

place online from 14-16 September 2021.

The Airspace Cabin Vision 2030 by Airbus (left) shows what the future of flying could look like; Coffee House Cabin (top) by the University of Cincinnati features a long table for meetings and co-working; the Alice Commuter (above) by Eviation Aircraft and Alma Design aims to make flying quieter, cleaner and more cost-effective

093

MAIDEN VOYAGE IN THE AIR

ZEROe Airbus presents a new approach for zeroemissions aircraft.

In a bid to reduce its impact on the environment,

power source – an option that Airbus believes holds

Airbus has revealed three concepts for the world’s first

promise as a clean aviation fuel and is likely to be a

zero-emission commercial aircraft, which could enter

solution for aerospace and many other industries to

service by 2035. Code-named ZEROe, the concepts

meet their climate-neutral targets. “This is a historic

each represent a different approach to achieving

moment for the commercial aviation sector as a whole

zero-emission flight, exploring various technology

and we intend to play a leading role in the most

pathways and aerodynamic configurations to support

important transition this industry has ever seen. These

the company’s ambition of leading the way in the

concepts offer the world a glimpse of our ambition

decarbonisation of the entire aviation industry.

to drive a bold vision for the future of zero-emission

The turbofan design, for 120-200 passengers, has

flight,” comments Guillaume Faury, CEO of Airbus.

a range of 2,000+ nautical miles and is powered by

“I strongly believe that the use of hydrogen – both

a modified gas-turbine engine running on hydrogen

in synthetic fuels and as a primary power source for

rather than jet fuel, while the smaller turboprop version

commercial aircraft – has the potential to significantly

for up to 100 passengers is capable of travelling 1,000

reduce aviation’s climate impact.”

nautical miles, making it suitable for short-haul travel.

While Airbus is committed to zero-emissions flight,

The blended-wing design (pictured) sees the wings

it notes that meeting such targets will also require

merge with the main body of the aircraft, with the wide

increased funding for research and technology, as well

fuselage able to carry up to 200 passengers and opening

as refuelling infrastructure to meet the needs of day-

up new possibilities for cabin layout.

to-day operations.

All three concepts rely on hydrogen as a primary

094

Celebrating Resilience and Uniting the Cruise Industry Uncover new trends, identify bold solutions, and secure profitable partnerships at the only business event that unites the entire global cruise community.

Register your interest now Join us virtually or in-person for our first hybrid event experience!

Visit seatrade-global.com

Secure your booth today!

Tel: +1 212 600 3110 Email: sales@seatradecruiseglobal.com 27-30 September 2021 | Expo 28-30 September 2021 Miami Beach Convention Center | Miami Beach, FL USA #STCGlobal • For more information call us at +1 212-600-3260 | seatrade-global.com

SCG21_Global_FP ad_SCR_MEDIABARTER_236x275mm.indd 1

25/05/2021 14:09

The Future of Flying JetBlue takes delivery of Airbus A321neo with reimagined Mint suites.

From Summer 2021, transatlantic passengers

holder and intuitively-placed power ports, USB

will be able travel in greater comfort than ever,

connections and wireless charging facilities. Each

following the first major design overhaul of Mint.

Mint suite features a tilting 17-inch Thales Avant

Having first launched the Mint concept with lie-

seatback screen and a sliding door for privacy,

flat beds back in 2014, Jet Blue enlisted Acumen

while the all-new Mint Studios – an innovation

Design Associates to elevate the experience for

conceptualised by Acumen and developed in

its new Airbus A321neo aircraft.

partnership with Aim Altitude – feature the

At the start of their creative journey, the London-based studio examined the lifestyle

096

largest lie-flat bed of any US carrier (based on total reclined bed surface area).

of the typical Jet Blue passenger, and having

JetBlue is the first to outfit its aircraft with

recognised the blurring between business and

Thompson Aero Seating’s Vantage Solo seat

leisure travel, developed a philosophy known

too, a revolutionary single aisle solution with

as Seamless Living. The idea was to create a

herringbone configuration developed for narrow-

space that would allow for multi-tasking, where

body aircraft and further customised for Jet Blue.

travellers could use multiple devices, and work

For added comfort, the airline has partnered with

and eat simultaneously.

mattress company Tuft & Needle to create a foam

Acumen began by removing the bulky

seat cushion with breathable cover and a memory

stowages of the original concept and replacing

foam-lined pillow. The reimagined cabin also

them with flat, user-friendly surfaces. They

features residential-inspired finishes such as

then introduced dedicated stowage for laptops,

textured suede, soft vegan leather and woodgrain,

handbags and shoes, and with connectivity

while first-of-its-kind mood lighting creates a

in mind, incorporated a unique smartphone

calming environment.

MAIDEN VOYAGE IN THE AIR

Flying High British Airways takes Michelin-starred chef to new heights.

With a renewed focus on the short-haul customer experience, British Airways has announced a partnership with Michelin-starred chef Tom Kerridge. Bringing his expertise from restaurants such as Kerridge’s Bar & Grill at Corinthia London and The Bull & Bear at Manchester’s Stock Exchange Hotel, the celebrated chef has designed a selection of signature pies and sandwiches available to customers travelling within Europe.

Forming part of the Speedbird Café menu, the gourmet items include a warm steak-and-ale pie, a brie Ploughman’s sandwich and the vegan spiced cauliflower wrap. Each has been created with a special focus on British provenance, with flavour profiles selected to work at altitude. The dishes are only available for pre-order up to 12 hours before departure, a move that helps the airline’s efforts to reduce on-board waste as part of its commitment to net

Meals on Wheels Aim Altitude develops a new galley system designed for space efficiency and speedy delivery.

zero emissions by 2050.

The new Speedbird Café menu will also feature an exclusive IPA known as JetSteam, developed in partnership with BrewDog following on from the popular limited edition Speedbird 100. Elsewhere, the airline is working with Do & Co to develop new menus for long-haul Club Europe passengers, as well as adapting the service to reintroduce china and glassware following the temporary introduction

Anyone who has flown on an aeroplane can empathise with the challenges

of minimum-contact meal boxes.

that arise during meal service. For passengers, it’s the difficulty in moving around the cabin and having to squeeze past trolleys blocking the narrow aisle; for flight attendants, it’s the handling of cumbersome trays and delivering hundreds of meals while still hot. With that in mind, Aim Altitude – a leading designer of aircraft cabin interiors – has developed Arca, a galley system for sustainable and efficient use of space.

Expected to transform future aircraft layouts, the concept replaces set trays with meal packs, which has clear advantages of space efficiency and waste reduction. The meal packs contain the usual dishes and accoutrements, yet are stackable with a smaller footprint making for more compact storage. According to Aim, there’s a space saving of up to 50% for a 300-capacity aircraft, facilitating a reduction in the galley footprint, which could make way for additional seats. The packs can be customised prior to take-off, meaning the passenger gets their first choice of meal and waste is less likely. Furthermore, they’re loaded onto the aircraft in seat order for faster service delivery, with each trolley holding a total of 48 meal packs.

Arca also enables zero landfill, as the carrier boxes used for storage become waste collection containers. After service, the containers fit into a waste compactor in the galley, reducing the volume of both recyclables and compostables and ensuring efficient stowage for the remainder of the flight.

The concept is one of a number of innovations by Aim Altitude, with the ultimate goal of offering airlines a highly differentiated product and passengers a more pleasurable in-flight experience.

097

© Courtesy of Air Charter Service

Y

ou only have to look at the number of

the company has now ventured into the wider

resorts offering private transportation

travel and tourism sector, launching a series of

to get an idea of the increased interest

curated experiences in collaboration with author

in jet travel over the past 12 months. Eager to

James Wallman. Developed to Wallman’s ‘time

entice guests back through their doors, hotels

design’ concepts as featured in his best-selling

have forged partnerships with private carriers

book Time and How To Spend It, the soon-to-

to offer a personalised service that removes the

be-announced experiences tap in to the thinking

stresses of Covid-era travel. These carriers are

that consumers can make better use of their time

also reporting a rise in demand for their services

by adhering to a framework. “The checklist in

from individual customers, with both business

my book is a simple way to remember the seven

and leisure travellers stepping on board.

things that you should aim to do with your time,

As a result, Air Charter Service is predicting

so that it doesn’t become junk or wasted time,”

a summer boom for its private jet division,

Wallman explains. Building on his first book,

forecasting a 20% year-on-year increase in new

Stuffocation, which suggests consumers should

customer enquiries between June and August

spend money on experiences rather than ‘stuff’,

2021. Having already seen an 80% rise in new

the trend forecaster has brought in scientific

Elevated Encounters Air Charter Service enhances its private jet offer with a series of curated experiences developed by James Wallman.

enquiries in March compared with February, it

research to reinforce his philosophy. “What

suggests that chaotic travel conditions will drive

we’re doing through this partnership is bringing

more and more consumers to the private aviation

science together with art,” he continues. “We

sector. “What we are hearing from customers is

have brought the latest insight from research on

that the lingering fear of Coronavirus infection,

how to design experiences and packaged that up

along with the inevitable delays at airports, is

in a way that we can create experiences that are

driving this surge in interest,” explains Justin

more likely to lead to better outcomes – better

Bowman, CEO of Air Charter Service. “Travellers

stories, better memories, better happiness.”

do not feel confident that flying by scheduled

Wallman concludes: “I am very excited to

service will be a smooth process, as the Covid-

be working with Air Charter Service, since the

19-related immigration requirements at airports

benefits of private aviation align so well with

will cause delays and additional stress. Travellers

my philosophies on how to spend time wisely

do not experience the same delays at private

for a happy and enriching life. The experiences

terminals and, as the pandemic continues to

will be based on the framework from Time and

evolve, customers want to be able to fly back

How To Spend It, so that after more than a year

quickly if it looks like quarantine regulations

of travel restrictions, travellers who select these

will change.”

experiences will not only take a break from

Air Charter Service has been in operation since

their norm, but will embark on a life-affirming

1990 and arranges more than 23,000 charter

journey that provides them with show-stopping

flights annually, providing commercial airliners,

memories and stories.”

cargo aircraft and courier solutions in addition to its private jets. In a bid to broaden its offer,

098

We realize the most beautiful ideas and locations with our limitless custom made furniture. We are specialized in cruise ship furniture. Our specialists take into account all the specific requirements that apply to designing various spaces on board of a cruise ship. We ensure that everything is seaproof and, if necessary, secured to the floor.

W W W. R O B O S . N L

Life in Space With commercial space travel becoming a reality, focus is shifting to the innovations that contribute to an allencompassing guest experience.

Words: Catherine Martin

W

hen talk of space tourism

an auction for a seat on New Shepard, set to fly

became

mainstream

its first astronaut crew to space on 20 July this

back in the early-2000s,

year. The company, founded by Jeff Bezos, has

you could be forgiven

completed a number of missions and recently

for thinking that such

invested in crew capsule upgrades to enhance

grandiose ideas were the

the astronaut experience. Elon Musk’s SpaceX

work of starry-eyed dreamers, unlikely to ever

venture meanwhile has announced its first

become a reality, not in our lifetime anyway.

all-civilian mission for later this year, with

But the past 12 months have seen giant leaps

the four-person crew taking to the Dragon

forward in the sector – bolstered perhaps by a

spacecraft for what will be a major milestone in

human desire to escape the problems of planet

the space tourism sector. In May 2021, Richard

Earth – with innovations ranging from dining

Branson’s Virgin Galactic completed its first

concepts to living spaces.

human spaceflight from Spaceport America

According to a new report from Technavio,

in New Mexico. And Axiom, which envisages

the space tourism market has the potential to

a commercial laboratory and residential

grow by US$5.16 billion between 2021-2025,

infrastructure in space, has signed a deal with

accelerating at a CAGR of 13.5%. With advances

NASA for the first private astronaut mission

in technology, more funding from private

to the International Space Station, which

investors and rising interest from enthusiasts,

could take place as early as January 2022.

the sector is set to rocket, further helped by

The astronauts will travel in style on board a

increased competition that will eventually

vessel designed by Philippe Starck, who has

make space travel more affordable.

created a nest-like accommodation module,

Major players include Airbus and Blue Origin

with materials and colours inspired by the

Enterprises, the latter of which is soon to hold

womb. While Starck has applied his hospitality

LIFE IN SPACE IN THE AIR

000

102

LIFE IN SPACE IN THE AIR

Lunark (top) by Saga Space Architects is inspired by the Japanese art of origami, while Philippe Starck’s creation for Axiom Space (bottom) is a cosy nest-like capsule

expertise to space travel, there’s a growing number of architects dedicated to the sector.

Saga, based in Copenhagen, is a new design practice working on making space liveable for future travellers by approaching the design of habitats from a human perspective, where mental wellbeing and social sustainability is part of the life support equation. The concept, a deployable moon habitat known as Lunark, is inspired by the Japanese art of origami, with a lightweight foldable frame clad in a carbon fibre shell that unfolds to create a living space.

Inside, the architects will embrace the Danish concept of Hygge to create a cosy environment.

Circadian light panels emulate the daily cycle of natural sunlight, while immersive soundscapes aim to counteract sensory monotony and an indoor vertical farm will grow vegetables. The company’s co-founders, Sebastian Aristotelis and Karl-Johan Sorensen, have already built a full-scale prototype and tested their concept in

“The innovation displayed throughout this experiment and emphasis on making long-duration space travel more hospitable underscores our ongoing commitment to ensuring guests always have a comfortable stay, wherever they may travel.”

SHAWN MCATEER, HILTON

hotels. The innovation displayed throughout this experiment and emphasis on making long-duration space travel more hospitable underscores our ongoing commitment to ensuring guests always have a comfortable stay, wherever they may travel.”

NASA is further committing to dining in space, and has recently launched a competition to find innovative and sustainable food systems.

Run in collaboration with the Canadian Space Agency, the Deep Space Food Challenge aims to generate novel food production technologies or systems that require minimal resources and produce minimal waste, while providing safe, nutritious and tasty food for long-duration human exploration missions. It is hoped the scheme will enable future travellers to follow a healthy and varied diet in space, and will also open up new avenues for food production on Earth, in extreme or resource-scarce regions.

Christie’s meanwhile has recently presented

Northern Greenland; they’re now crowdfunding

the first-ever bottle of space-aged wine for

to make their dream a reality.

sale. The mono-varietal Pétrus 2000 vintage

On a larger scale, Orbital Assembly is pushing

spent 14 months aboard the International Space

ahead with its plans having recently opened

Station, and will be sold in a handcrafted trunk

a new production facility in California to

alongside a corkscrew made from a meteorite,

accelerate the development of space hotels. The

with the proceeds funding future space

construction company is currently developing

missions. It is the first time wine has travelled

technologies and structures to build the

to the ISS and returned to Earth, ageing in a

world’s first space hotel, with lunar levels of

carefully monitored and controlled environment

gravity between the Earth and the moon. Once

In 2020, Hilton Worldwide became the first

as part of a series of experiments by Space Cargo

complete, the 400-capacity resort will feature

hospitality company to participate in research

Unlimited to find solutions for the viticulture

luxury villa accommodation, a health spa, gyms,

on the International Space Station, as astronauts

and agriculture of tomorrow.

themed restaurants, concert venues, and Earth-

successfully baked DoubleTree chocolate-chip

On hand to bring the entertainment are

viewing lounges.

cookies in a landmark science experiment. In

Intergalactic Royalty Operations Corporation

With the design of outer space accommodation

partnership with Zero G Kitchen, proprietors

(iROC) and Subtractive Inc, who have entered

already under way, one of the greatest

of the first space oven, the experiment was

into a strategic partnership to broadcast music

challenges now is dining. If travellers are to be

designed to assess how ingredients perform

to outer space. The venture will enable the

offered the same five-star experience as they

in space, and to make such travel experiences

licensing and branding of the label’s roster of

have become accustomed to on Earth, food

more hospitable. Speaking of the results, Shawn

space-influenced artists to the stars, targeting

production techniques will need to develop.

McAteer, Senior Vice President and Global Head

content delivery to the first wave of space

NASA has long been sending astronauts into

of DoubleTree by Hilton commented: “Perfecting

tourists, space hotels and other operators

space with vitamin-rich pre-packaged foods

the baking process for our DoubleTree cookies

above the Karman Line (100km above sea level).

that are easy-to-eat in zero-gravity, but future

took time, even on Earth, so we were excited

Subtractive, a Santa Monica-based production

space travellers will expect three-course meals,

to learn that our cookies appear to look and

company representing artists at the crux of

cocktails and gourmet snacks.

smell the same on the ISS as they do in our

where space and music meet, works with the

103

LIFE IN SPACE IN THE AIR

“This announcement is our hope to encourage and move forward the concept of space tourism, while revving up excitement for that aspect of the travel industry that is sure to come some time in the near future.”

JOSH BELKIN, HOTELS.COM

likes of electro band Test Shot Starfish, whose

holiday plans and book trips… just as soon as

sounds often feature on SpaceX launch webcasts,

those space hotels actually exist. The venture

while iRoc developed the first radio station

came with a plea to developers building hotels

dedicated to space-influenced content and

in space to get in touch, while the website offers

music, and is the exclusive broadcast partner

budding interstellar travellers an idea of what

for goingtospace.com, an online community for

to expect. From check-in to the guestroom,

current and future astronauts. The company’s

features include spacesuit robes with moon-

forward-thinking founder Bruce Furst has

boot slippers, AI-powered concierges, a meteor

aspirations to provide entertainment for other

mini-bar and robot bellhops.

intergalactic planets and worldly beings, stating:

While the campaign turned out to be a PR

“I hope that as space tourism and ultimately

stunt to drive bookings at Earth-based hotels, it

space settlement comes to fruition, iROC will

certainly got the industry thinking about travel

be a leading provider of licensed entertainment

of the future. “Hotels.com is proud to already

content, product branding and broadcasting for

offer the best properties on planet Earth. The

the space community.”

way things are going in 2020 inspired us

So how do travellers go about booking such

to see if we can extend that offering to the

an out-of-this-world trip? Last September,

entire galaxy,” commented Josh Belkin, Vice

Hotels.com announced plans to become

President of Global Brand at Hotels.com. “This

the first online travel agent to offer hotel

announcement is our hope to encourage and

bookings in space and reward Earthlings with

move forward the concept of space tourism,

the ultimate escape. Through its new website

while revving up excitement for that aspect of

– onesmallstepforhotels.com – the company

the travel industry that is sure to come some

claims that travellers will be able to make

time in the near future.”

© Hotels.com

104

the only degradable vinyl alternative for hospitality and cruise

The Conscious Choice

otratex.com

EVENTS DIARY

13-14 JUL

15-16 JUL

27-01

JUL-AUG

08-10 SEP

Greentech Shipping Forum Athens www.greentechshipping.com

Superyacht Design Festival Milan www.boatinternational.com

Cruise360 Florida www.cruise360.org

Seatrade Europe Hamburg www.seatrade-europe.com

08-10 SEP

22-25 SEP

27-30 SEP

28-29 OCT

Marine Interiors Hamburg www.marineinteriors-expo.com

Monaco Yacht Show Monaco www.monacoyachtshow.com

Seatrade Cruise Global Miami www.seatradecruiseglobal.com

28-29 OCT

28-29 OCT

01-02 DEC

Cruise Ship Hospitality Expo America Miami www.cruiseshiphospitality-expo.com

Cruise Ship Interiors Awards Miami www.cruiseshipinteriors-awards.com

Cruise Ship Interiors Expo Europe London www.cruiseshipinteriors-europe.com

Cruise Ship Interiors Expo America Miami www.cruiseshipinteriors-expo.com

107

EVENTS

© Cesc Maymo

Cruise Ship Interiors Expo America 28-29 October 2021 MIAMI

Taking place at the Miami Beach Convention

Visitors can also cast their vote in the Cruise

Center from 28-29 October 2021, Cruise Ship

Ship Interiors Awards (CSIA), which this

Interiors Expo America is set to host the sector’s

year celebrate the innovative companies and

big reunion following months apart.

industry leaders that helped guide the cruise

The two-day event is an opportunity for the

ship interiors community through a challenging

entire cruise interiors supply chain to meet

12 months. Voting will open on the first day of

again in person, with cruise line executives,

CSI – be there to have your say.

designers, outfitters and suppliers all reuniting

Over in the conference hall, at the first live

on a dynamic show floor. Visitors will be among

Cruise Conversations, there will be plenty to

the first to experience the abundance of new

discuss. The industry’s leading experts are set

products and services from over 300 exhibitors,

to share their thoughts on the hottest and most

with innovative materials to luxe finishes,

forward-thinking trends, from return to service

turnkey solutions to cutting-edge technology

to expanding markets.

all part of the line-up.

108

The event will also be co-located with Cruise

With Miami at the heart of America’s cruise

Ship Hospitality Expo, covering everything from

market, key decision-makers from the major

the galley and F&B to technology, along with

cruise operators will be in attendance both

an area dedicated to health and hygiene. The

on the show floor and at exciting networking

expanded focus will bring the sector together

events. The CSI networking itinerary is designed

in a new way, with the joint goal of enhancing

to facilitate and generate the conversations

the on-board guest experience. For further

that everyone in the cruise interiors industry

information, follow @CruiseShipInteriors on

urgently desires and requires.

LinkedIn or visit cruiseshipinteriors-expo.com.

AFTER OVER THREE DECADES OF SUPPLYING THE HOTEL & CRUISE INDUSTRIES, WATERBURY BATHROOM ACCESSORIES HAS BECOME SYNONYMOUS WITH QUALITY. WHEN THE TOP DESIGNERS, HOTEL GROUPS & CRUISE COMPANIES NEED THE BEST BESPOKE, SPECIAL FINISHES OR STANDARD BATHROOM ACCESSORIES, THEY COME TO WATERBURY.

Contact Steven Davies for more information on our bespoke capabilities and a copy of our brochure TEL: +44 (0) 121 333 6062 EMAIL: sdavies@waterbury.co.uk

© Sunbrella

Poised to Perform As health and safety measures continue to take centrestage, performance materials will play a leading role in the return of safe travel.

Words: Ben Thomas

110

W

ith travel and tourism set to make a

behind the system has now been used to create a

comeback this summer, all eyes will

multi-surface spray, Shieldplus Protect, and as a

be on the measures being put in place

laundry additive, Shieldplus Laundry.

to ensure that passengers around the world

Unlike standard antimicrobial cleaners, which

can embark on their journeys at ease. While

evaporate soon after application, Shieldplus

testing, vaccinations and social distancing will

Protect forms a chemical bond with the surface,

naturally make the front pages, the importance

allowing it to stay present for up to 90 days, while

of performance materials should not be

Shieldplus Laundry offers protection on clothing

underestimated, with surfaces taking a leading

and bedding for up to 14 wash cycles. In addition,

role in stopping the spread of infectious diseases

both solutions employ water-based chemistry,

on land, at sea and in the air.

which doesn’t leach into the environment.

SAFETY FIRST

strategy for more than 15 years,” says CEO Tony

Reducing the risk of transmission will be a primary

Attard, who confirms that Panaz is supplying

concern for operators, and manufacturers are on

thousands of metres of its antimicrobial fabric

hand to provide innovations that assist in doing

to the upcoming Viking Glory vessel. “Initially,

so. Take Shieldplus by Panaz, an antimicrobial

the technology was developed in response to

cleaning system that is effective against 99.99%

superbugs within hospitals, which were gaining

of viruses, bacterial and fungal microbes –

immunity to traditional antimicrobials. The aim

including Coronavirus, MRSA, Norovirus and

was to develop a solution that could eliminate

E. Coli. Having been independently tested and

microbes on contact, preventing them from

subsequently adopted by Premier Inn as part of

adapting an immunity whilst being permanently

its standard cleaning protocols, the technology

bonded to the fabric.”

“Shieldplus has been a key part of our healthcare

SPOTLIGHT

ShieldPlus by Panaz eliminates microbes on contact and is suitable for upholstery, curtains and soft furnishings

Attard goes on to explain that a surface treated

remains bonded to the fabric for its lifetime –

This collective effort stretches beyond the

with Shieldplus is coated in positively charged

acting faster and remaining effective for longer

realms of fabrics to furniture, sanitaryware,

polymer chains, which stand upright and can

on upholstery, curtains and soft furnishings,

lighting

pierce the outer layer of microbes. “The genius

whether vinyl, woven or printed. Bespoke designs

manufacturer Nanimarquina recently developing

of the system is in its structure,” he expresses.

can also be created via Panaz’s ReMake portal.

a microtechnology anti-Covid treatment for its

and

even

rugs,

with

Spanish

“The moment a microbe comes into contact

Not only does this restore confidence amongst

own products, achieving maximum hygiene

with Shieldplus, its membrane is ruptured by

crew and passengers, who can be educated about

while maintaining the inherent properties of its

the polymer chains, exposing its interior to the

the protection that operators are providing

rug fibres thanks to a high resistance.

electric charge, which kills it immediately.”

them, but there’s also an economic benefit; as

And resistance will be key given the stringent

The benefit of this method is that it does not

Shieldplus antimicrobial fabrics do not deplete

cleaning protocols now being carried out to

discriminate between pathogens, meaning the

like their heavy, metal-based counterparts, they

prevent outbreaks. Morbern’s new Carrara

system is equally effective against viruses,

do not need to be replaced anywhere near as

fabric, for instance, is robust against bleach and

bacteria and fungi, with the speed at which it

often, saving costs on upgrades.

alcohol-based disinfectants – both recommended

kills microbes drastically reducing the window

For Attard, the need for such solutions will only

by the European Centre for Disease Prevention &

escalate going forward: “We see antimicrobials

Control (ECDC) for Covid-19 – due to its abrasion

“Traditional antimicrobial fabrics operate by

as increasingly important in all sectors, including

resistance, which exceeds 300,000 Martindale

leeching toxins that poison microbes,” Attard

cruise ships. In the same way as social distancing

cycles. Available in 12 colours and meeting most

continues. “Not only is this method slow, but it

and the use of face masks, antimicrobials are part

European fire-retardancy standards thanks to its

allows for adaptation and means the treatment

of the collective effort to safeguard people from

IMO MED Wheelmark certificate, the phthalate-

has a shelf life, with the antimicrobial agent

infection. As time goes on, we believe we will

free, REACH-compliant collection also contains

depleted and harmful to the environment due to

see a trend towards intelligent protection that is

bio-based renewable ingredients derived from

toxins entering the water cycle during washing.”

seamlessly implemented into the environment

soya beans – part of the company’s mission to

In contrast, Shieldplus is non-migratory and

and is less of a strain on daily life.”

leave as little environmental impact as possible.

for potential transmission.

111

SPOTLIGHT

Ultrafabrics has introduced a new range of colours that reinforce the company’s commitment to sustainability (above); Fidivi’s fabrics use Trevira CS yarns and meet a wide range of certifications (opposite left), while Morbern’s new Carrara fabric is robust against bleach and alcohol-based disinfectants (opposite right)

112

A GREENER FUTURE

Whether catering for marine customers by

Morbern are not the only ones championing

developing fabrics that can weather the elements

natural resources. Animal-free manufacturer

of an active marine lifestyle, or teaming up with

Ultrafabrics – whose materials have taken to the

automotive clients on the next generation of

skies through collaborations with Gulfstream

performance fabrics, which deliver a unique

Aerospace and United Airlines – has introduced

haptic and a luxurious aesthetic – the firm works

a new range of colours in its Volar Bio range,

with both original equipment manufacturers

which reinforce the company’s commitment to

looking for alternatives to leather as well as

building a more sustainable world.

newer electric vehicle makers demanding more

Inspired by the Earth’s surface and featuring

technical materials – Hodge notes that the desire

tones that derive from organic dye sources,

of operators today is not only for durable, soft

the rich neutrals – Indigotin, Matcha, Spinach,

and easy-to-maintain solutions that can deliver

Porcini, Pitch Black and Café Noir – demonstrate

a comfortable passenger experience, but also

Ultrafabrics’ pledge towards greener solutions,

for those that have been developed with the

according to Vice President of Transportation,

environment in mind.

Perry Hodge: “We are committed to reducing our

“Across all of the markets we serve it is one

dependency on finite resources while addressing

of the first things our customers are looking for,

the future needs of our customers. Over six years

whether it is a bio-based product, incorporates

ago we partnered with a boutique supplier and

recycled content, is created through improved

challenged them to create bespoke, naturally

manufacturing processes or is simply animal-

derived ingredients that would improve our

free,” he enthuses on the importance of eco-

sustainability profile without sacrificing our

friendly goods. “Every designer, no matter their

renowned aesthetics and durability.”

field, is prioritising sustainability too.”

SPOTLIGHT

BUILT TO LAST

and is easy to care for using soapy water. The

polyester yarn through over-dyeing. The process

While antimicrobial and sustainable solutions

100% polyester fabric comes in 25 colours too,

also enables Fidivi’s fabrics collections – all of

are more important than ever in today’s world,

some of which – including shades like Oxalis,

which are IMO, OEKO-TEX and Ecolabel certified

durability will remain a critical element to

Bougainvillier and Mahonia – evoke lush gardens

– to achieve a cotton-like touch.

companies producing performance materials for

and tropical jungles, with others such as Basalte,

Likewise, the in-house design studio at

the marine, aerospace and rail sectors, especially

Onyx and Craie bringing to mind nature in its raw

Sunbrella has devised more than 200 textile

those for high-traffic and open-air settings.

state, introducing earthy hues that recall rock

references for its marine fabrics, which can cover

dust and volcanic lagoons.

both interior and exterior spaces at sea. From

Designed to withstand the rigours of Mother Nature, DuPont’s Tedlar film provides resistance

plain to graphic patterns, textured to smooth

to weathering and significantly reduces UV

LIFE IN COLOUR

discolouration, while Cotting Group’s Bakero

And colour is not going to fade anytime soon,

upholstery and canvases allow operators and

fabric – certified by the IMO MED Wheelmark

despite the need for more sterile surfaces aboard

designers to create a look of their own.

and featuring a twill effect that looks like denim

planes, trains and boats. Inspired by the natural

While many aspects of travel will look and feel

– meets the challenges of long exposure to sun

world, Fidivi’s yarn-dyed fabrics – Class, Fox

different for the foreseeable future, one thing

and water thanks to its own protection against

and Roccia – range from warm tones to bold

that will not falter is the commitment of the crew

UV; the product’s performance has been assessed

effects thanks to a cationic yarn component in

behind the scenes in ensuring that the wheels

for more than 1,000 hours under UVA and UVB

both warp and weft. The use of these Trevira

of the industry keep on turning, and safely. In

lights at temperatures above 50 degrees and in

CS yarns, which are added to a non-cationic,

the case of performance materials, it’s clear that

conditions of high relative humidity.

flame-retardant polyester component, allows the

manufacturers are ready to play their part in

Suitable for covering both indoor and outdoor

firm to create chromatic contrasts following the

helping the industry get back on its feet.

furniture, Bakero is finished with C-VARD – a

dyeing process – the cationic yarn is sensitive to

new PVC coating that offers enhanced protection

certain types of dyes and can take on different

against stains, soiling and contamination

colours from the remaining part of the classic

finishes, and muted to bold colours, the brand’s

113

Le Méridien Lav, Split, Croatia, furnished by SNS Group.

www.snsgroup.eu

SPECIFIER

CARGO

Chelsom LED Eye Chelsom has been awarded the Red Dot Award: Product Design 2021 for its new LED reading light, LED Eye. The globally renowned contest is judged by a panel of experts from a variety of industries, with thousands of products from over 60 countries evaluated on design quality and innovation. When designing the LED Eye collection, Will and Robert Chelsom wanted to disrupt the status quo in reading light design by fusing original aesthetics and raw functionality. “The starting point was to create a product that nestled into a headboard with minimum projection whilst serving as a decorative accent to an interior scheme,” explains Will Chelsom, Managing Director. “It had to start with the look of the product, but quickly we focused all of our efforts on creating a thoroughly advanced mechanical design that made the LED Eye easy to use and essential to any guestroom.” www.chelsom.co.uk

Jung KNX System Jung’s KNX System – a cross-product and cross-national communication system for data transfer between all smart devices – is billed as the only globally uniform standard for system technology, meeting the tough demands of the yacht sector. The German manufacturer’s units, featuring button and rotary sensors, increase convenience in every cabin and provide more security aboard superyachts. The smart technology can control comfort aspects such as lighting, room climate or multimedia functions, as well as providing security and access control with the surveillance of energy consumption and the supervision of automatic cameras.

The unit’s modular design also means the on-board network and system technology can be extended or reconfigured at any time.

Available in 63 original Les Couleurs Le Corbusier colours and partly finished by hand, the switches and frames integrate into any interior scheme. All of Jung’s product lines can be implemented with the KNX system, blending intelligent system technology with sophisticated design. www.jung.de

Integra Fragrances Scenting and Sanitisation With air quality a primary concern for the cruise industry, Integra Fragrances – a scent branding company based in Italy – has developed a system for the scenting and sanitisation of largescale public spaces. The remote-controlled device fits neatly into existing HVAC ducts and nebulises Benzalkonium Chloride – a safe active ingredient recommended worldwide against Covid-19.

An atomiser transforms the liquid solution into an aerosol, which enters the public space via air ducts and sanitises both the air and surfaces within; despite its virucidal and bactericidal qualities, it is compatible with all surface materials, from marble, stone and wood to leather, fabric and metal, as well as plants. The fine mist can be administered for a few minutes every hour, or for longer periods following high guest capacity, according to a protocol tested to be effective against coronavirus. The technology aims to create safer and more pleasant environment on both passenger ships and private vessels. Integra Fragrances’ usual line of business involves the development of tailor-made scent identities to help brands create unique, memorable experiences. Clients include Bvlgari, Fendi and Ferragamo, with each fragrance designed to tell a story.

For Emirates, the company has developed an olfactory identity that recalls the enigmatic charm of the Middle East thanks to an exotic blend of agarwood, Bulgarian rose, vanilla and ambergris. To complete the experience, the full line of products includes scented bookmarks and notebooks, reed diffusers and VIP amenities, while for sanitisation there’s hand-gel and surface spray. www.integra-fragrances.com

116

CARGO

Creative Matters Mountainscape Creative Matters design and manufacture custom fair-trade floor and wallcoverings. Mountainscape is a collection of bespoke needle-felted wallcoverings, adding warmth, texture and acoustic qualities to its surroundings. To create the Mountainscape range, felted fibres are permanently interlocked to produce a soft blending of colours and texture – the perfect technique to depict this painterly design. In addition to felted wallcoverings, the Canadian design studio create digitally printed IMO-certified wallcoverings. With their emphasis on design, distinction and durability, these wallcoverings evoke warmth and sophistication in any setting. www.creativemattersinc.com

Frescolori Invisono Invisono combines the advantages of Frescolori’s fine plasters with the sophisticated technology of soundboards. Featuring a special design, the boards are installed flat against a wall or ceiling, with subsequent filling in the form of a Frescolori lime-marble plaster ensuring that the surface blends seamlessly with the rest of the wall, making the speakers completely invisible. The plaster’s special characteristics distribute the sound and achieve surface acoustics for a one-of-a-kind experience.

Due to the minimal acoustic feedback, Invisono is ideal for conference rooms and event spaces, with the invisible integration of soundboards and a variety of separate control options offering customer-tailored solutions. www.frescolori.de

117

CASE STUDY

Robos Contract Furniture Wonder of the Seas After furnishing two of Royal Caribbean’s cruise ships, Harmony of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas, Robos Contract Furniture is now working behind the scenes on their successor: Wonder of the Seas.

Set to become the largest cruise ship in the world, the fifth vessel in Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class will measure 362m long and accommodate over 6,900 passengers.

Currently under construction at Chantiers de l’Atlantique in Saint Nazaire, Wonder of the Seas is scheduled for completion in early 2022, with Asia as its home port.

In addition to the standard seven neighbourhoods found on Oasis Class ships, Wonder of the Seas will feature an eighth: the Suite Neighbourhood – an area exclusively for suite guests.

118

Excluding public areas such as destination restaurant Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar, all of the vessel’s suites – including those specially designed for the Chinese market, which feature billiard and printed tables – and crew areas are set to be furnished by Robos, who will also supply the outdoor furniture on-board, marking an expanded role following the success of Harmony and Symphony.

The entire installation will be carried out in-house too; from the end of June 2021, a specialist Robos team will be on-board to handle the floor installations. Based in France, the team will be on-hand for a prolonged period of time to ensure that everything runs smoothly, right down to the smallest of details. www.rbslabel.nl

CARGO

Roman Colour and Integration

Shower enclosure designer and manufacturer Roman offers bespoke designer solutions for the bathroom within the hospitality and residential sectors. Currently operating in over 60 markets worldwide, the brand is well established among key international hotel groups, architects and designers.

Roman manufactures everything from shower enclosures, bath screens and wetroom panels to walk-in solutions, anti-slip shower trays and solid-surface fabrication including basins, vanity units and bathroom structures, with all of the company’s collections are made in Britain.

In response to designers’ requirements, which are moving away from chrome in favour

of other finishes, Roman has introduced 11 hardware finishes for its shower enclosures, including Polished Chrome, Stainless Steel, Polished Nickel, Brushed Nickel, Polished Brass, Burshed Brass, Polished Gold Optic, Brushed Gold Optic, Polished Black Chrome, Brushed Black Chrome and Matt White.

Current trends are also shifting from clear glass into textured and printed glass, with a huge variation on thickness and finishes available. As such, Roman recently unveiled more fluted-glass options for its Liberty Wetroom Panels, Liberty Sliding Door and Liberty Hinged Door with In-Line Panel. www.roman-showers.com

119

CARGO

UHS – Table Place Chairs Geneva The Geneva collection is a versatile range of seating crafted for a range of interior environments, from stools for a rooftop bar, lounge chairs for a hotel lobby or dining pieces for a cruise ship’s restaurant. Available in a number of fabrics and finishes, each model is customisable, allowing designers to configure their very own product to fit a specific space. The furniture manufacturer also gives the option to choose from a variety of arm heights and base styles, from wooden legs to a metal base, as well as the addition of metal socks for extra elegance. www.tableplacechairs.com

Waterbury Heated Towel Rail In response to increasing demand for heated towel rails, bathroom accessories specialist Waterbury is soon to launch eight new heated towel rail designs, each available in different sizes and finishes and produced using the premium materials that its customers have come to expect. The manufacturer has created a striking design featuring 12 horizontal bars for ample towel storage and giving off a generous 2258 BTU heat output, the rail also comes with a built-in thermostat. The sustainable heated towel rails are easily recycled and contain less water than a standard radiator, helping get to the desired temperature faster and more efficiently. www.waterbury.co.uk

Beadlight Somnus Somnus is a wall-mounted ambient reading light that is particularly effective adjacent to headboards. The reading light features a flexible stem that can be positioned as required, and is one of the first of its kind to integrate USB charging – discreetly hidden at the bottom of the mounting plate. Each Somnus light is expertly machined out of aluminium, with the metallic composition not only lightweight but also allowing for a variety of finishes and colours including: Black Anodised, Anodised Bronze, Clear Anodised, Polished Nickel, Anodised Titanium. The flexible stem is also available in a selection of shades and comes with a leather arm that is hand-stitched in the UK. www.beadlight.com

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Sleeper Media – the leading brand for hospitality experience and design.

Visit the store to receive your copy. www.sleeper.media/store

FINAL CALL

Starship Enterprise

For its new flagship, MSC Cruises re-imagines the bar to transport guests to another world.

122

With commercial space travel soon to become

using a natural voice and expressions. Not

a reality, developers and designers are looking

only does Rob prepare an impressive range of

beyond the stratosphere for inspiration, seeking

cocktails, he speaks eight languages, has his

to replicate a life in space in their projects on

own distinct personality and uses his LED face

land or at sea. Or at least that’s the case for

to convey emotion, so that passengers can enjoy

MSC Cruises, whose new flagship MSC Virtuosa

the performance while sipping on their tipple.

is home to a futuristic space-themed bar and

In keeping with the theme, the status of the

entertainment venue.

cocktails is displayed on digital monitors and a

Kitted out with 3D holograms, a digital art

ticker-tape-style LED strip above the bar, while

wall and 12-seater interactive table that allows

the finished product is served in futuristic glasses

passengers to explore the universe on their very

that visitors can take away as a souvenir.

own intergalactic tour, MSC Starship Club could

This latest innovation takes cutting-edge

be mistaken for something out of a sci-fi movie

robotics and digital technologies to deliver an

– think Starship Enterprise – and is fronted

immersive entertainment lounge, completely

by the ocean’s first-ever humanoid bartender.

re-imagining the traditional bar experience to

Named Rob, the resident barman can mix and

transport guests to another world. It may be

muddle just like a human – albeit taking orders

one small step for MSC, but it could mark the

from guests in digital cockpits – and interacts

beginning of one giant leap towards automation.

Registered European Community Design 007575014-0001/0002/0003/0004/0005. US Design Patent Application US29/729,141

LED EYE EDITION 27 W I N N E R I N T H E R E D D OT AWA R D : PRODUCT DESIGN 2021

45624 Chelsom LED EYE Starboard_236x275_AW.indd 1

chelsom.co.uk

22/04/2021 17:19

Strategy & Concept Architecture & Interiors Identity & Wayfinding Artwork & Styling

Octagon Point 5 Cheapside London EC2V 6AA www.adassociates.london