After the launch of the ULSTEIN X-BOW® concept in 2005, the bow has received, or been nominated for, a number of Innovation Awards. The first was the Norwegian Engineering Feat of the Year from the magazine “Teknisk Ukeblad” in 2005.
The Norwegian Engineering Feat of the Year award is awarded to an engineering solution to a technical or social problem and that has local, national or international significance for society. The solution is intended to represent a good idea that has demonstrated commercial viability or socio-economic significance that has been carried out or finished during the period 2004-2005.
More about the X-BOW
Aurora Expeditions welcomed its third X-BOW cruise vessel, Douglas Mawson, in September 2025. “Many of our guests have travelled on other expedition ships before and immediately notice the difference. Whether it’s sleeping better at night, feeling less vibration during lectures, or spending more time in observation areas, the design truly enhances the experience,” says Katie Malone, Chief Marketing Officer at Aurora Expeditions, when commenting on the X-BOW design feature.
Ulstein Group received the 'Teamwork of the Year 2025 Award' at the IDC conference in Ålesund on 16 October 2025. The jury stated that: "Ulstein Group has built a culture where all disciplines are equally valued. The results speak for themselves: forward-looking vessels that meet both commercial and societal goals. Ulstein demonstrates how interdisciplinary collaboration can lead to groundbreaking solutions in the maritime sector, showcasing a strong ability to bring together designers, engineers, and key personnel in developing holistic concepts that combine technology, function, and aesthetics. Collaboration across disciplines and stakeholders – from local partners to international clients – drives innovation with global impact."
In October 2025, Edda Freya called at Ulstein Verft for a mobilisation on very short notice. In addition to several minor tasks, the vessel's crane, weighing 350 tonnes, needed to be relocated.
Ulstein Group ASA