'Greg Mortimer' bow area, photo by Peter Szyszka.

Combining the X-BOW® with a view

The ULSTEIN series of cruise vessels combines the offshore tough with a luxury touch. The implementation of the X-BOW® feature, firstly used on numerous offshore vessels, contributes to a more comfortable journey in any weather. The passengers get close to nature whilst protected, on an extraordinary vessel.

Published
18 February 2020
Updated
21 March 2025
Share

An X-BOW® cruise vessel is standing out from the ordinary, with its modern and stylistic design. With its extra volume, the X-BOW® shape opens up to unrestricted playfulness in the bow. Exciting recreational opportunities can be fitted into the spacious areas, an opportunity for the owner to add a little extra spice and sugar. Wide views from the spacious lounges secure spectacular sights and a feeling of being a part of nature, while comfortably protected.

The ice lounge on the 'Endurance'. Photo: Lindblad Expeditions.

The possibility for underwater lounges add to the thrill. Explorer wings can be implemented in the ship's sides, to bring passengers close to the water and close to the nature.

In addition to the X-BOW, there are multiple observation decks and also observation wings for the passengers to get views from an angle outside the ship’s side. Photo: Aurora Expedions.

Look straight down to the dolphins' ride

Passengers on cruise ships with a standard bow need to lean over the side of the ship and look backwards down towards the waterline. On a vessel with an X-BOW®, the passengers have a whole new way of viewing wildlife in the sea, as they are now enabled to look straight down into the water. The dolphins enjoy riding the bow wave of the ship, and on an X-BOW® vessel, there is much space in the fore part of the ship for passengers to look straight down to the waterline in front and see how the vessel ventures through the water. This is a great observation spot to watch dolphins.

X-BOW and dolphins in front.

Sleeping quality adds to safety

No one can command the weather conditions, but the master of an X-BOW vessel has a benefit when meeting the waves in head sea. The vessel moves gently when thrusting through the water, with less slamming or vibrations. A zero-speed retractable stabiliser adds to the comfort effect. The passengers and crew members get their rest, and efficient rest also affects safety.

Tough, safe and responsible

The modern X-BOW cruise vessel is based on decades of offshore experience. With low speed loss and no slamming in the bow, even in big waves, the ship is less weather-dependent and does not have to reduce speed in head seas. With a more predictable speed, the uncertainty in keeping schedule margins is reduced. The vessel can operate safely, quickly, and efficiently even in adverse conditions, and there will be shorter time spent transiting through the harshest sea areas.

Heading forward in adverse Antarctic weather

Our ship solutions lead to reduced emissions to air and sea. Our cruise ships can be adjusted to any fuel type, including batteries or hybrid systems. Effective engines and propulsion systems, low energy consumption and high fuel efficiency add to our vessels' sustainability.

Day-and-night experience

The ships interior layouts are designed according to the owner's specifications, to give the passengers an unforgettable experience. The ships can offer facilities for entertainment, recreation and relaxation, such as spa areas with saunas, pools and massage, infinity pools and Jacuzzis, exercise areas, cinema and theatre, marine activities, dining and bars. Ulstein's cooperation with acknowledged and experienced cruise interior designers ensures a top-quality, luxurious touch, all according to the owner's preferences.

Bar and observation area at Greg Mortimer

Logistics adds to customer experience

Passengers do not want to spend unnecessary time queueing and waiting when going on excursions. Efficient and functional excursion logistics combined with safe and easy embarkations and disembarkations of tender boats, kayaks and other crafts and equipment ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for all passengers, allowing them to maximize their time exploring and enjoying their destinations.

  • Greg Mortimer kayakers, photo Aurora Expeditions.
    Excursions from the Greg Mortimer.
  • Zodiac 525 37407004
    Zodiac arrangement on Ulstein-designed cruise vessel for Lindblad.
  • Kayak launch zone on the Greg Mortimer
    Kayak launch zone on the Greg Mortimer.
  • Zodiac 5 37406744
    Tender logistics on the Lindblad cruise vessels NG Endurance and NG Resolution.
  • Tender boats Greg Mortimer photo Franz Wusits
    Tender boats on the Greg Mortimer.

Vessel details

The ULSTEIN cruise ships can be designed for expedition cruises or destination travels. The low-PAX vessels can accommodate approx. 100-175 passengers (length 100m, beam 18m), while the largest vessels can take approx. 350-800 passengers, or more (length 180m, beam 24m). All suites and cabins have ocean views.

Cabin on the Sylvia Earle.

The ships can be designed to operate in any conditions in any part of the world, from polar areas to tropical climates. We cooperate closely with authorities in the early stages of design development. Our vessels comply with all classifications, regulations, and requirements. 

From the first idea to turn-key delivery

ULSTEIN is a group of expert companies in ship construction, ship design, solutions, and marine systems. We follow the complete project, from the first ideas and sketches through design and engineering to building, testing, and finishing. Upon delivery, a full package of the latest version drawings and manuals will be handed over.

Related news

Lars Ståle Skoge DSC4468 comp bw

Lars Ståle Skoge

Commercial Director

Affiliation
Ulstein Design & Solutions AS