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
056
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. 040
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.
003
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
077
© 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
100
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
110
Cargo 115 Final Call
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Eco-luxury has a new name
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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
013
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EDITORIAL
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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
018
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
020
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
021
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.”
022
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
024
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
025
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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
027
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.
Floor to ceiling program
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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.
TABLE PLACE CHAIRS
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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.
KD50 ECOSMART Drawer Minibar
www.indelb.com info@indelb.com
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.
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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
