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Nine reasons why Ulstein's cruise ship designs are worth the investment

More bang for your buck: In the competitive world of cruise ship ownership, making smart investments is crucial. Ulstein's innovative cruise ship designs offer unparalleled value, combining efficiency, safety, and sustainability. Here are nine reasons why investing in Ulstein's cruise vessels benefits shipowners, operators, and passengers.

Published
21 March 2025
Updated
25 February 2026
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1. Optimised itineraries: Shorter transits, more time to explore

Ulstein's X-BOW® design minimises wave resistance, allowing ships to maintain higher speeds while providing enhanced comfort. 

This results in shorter transit times, enabling cruise operators to include more destinations or extend time at each port. The predictable speed reduces operators' uncertainty in maintaining schedule margins, allowing passengers to enjoy a wider variety of locations and activities, making their cruise more enriching and memorable.

  • Ocean Victory in Antarctica.
    Ocean Victory in Antarctica, photo: Albatros Expeditions.
  • Greg Mortimer kayakers, photo Aurora Expeditions.
    Greg Mortimer kayakers, photo Aurora Expeditions.
  • Expedition cruise vessel Sylvia Earle of the CX103 design ULS 02487
    The expedition cruise vessel Sylvia Earle, photo Aurora Expeditions.
  • The National Geographic Endurance in polar waters.
    The National Geographic Endurance in polar waters, photo Lindblad Expeditions.
  • The observation deck on the Sylvia Earle.
    The observation deck on the Sylvia Earle, photo: Aurora Expeditions.
  • Sylvia Earle exterior ULS 02680
    Infinity pool on the Sylvia Earle, photo Aurora Expeditions/Matt Horspool.

2. Enhanced passenger experience

Ulstein's cruise ships provide a smooth and comfortable ride, even in rough seas, thanks to the X-BOW design and zero-speed stabilisers. Passengers even report reduced seasickness. Minimal noise and vibrations ensure a peaceful onboard environment. 

The spacious X-BOW shape allows for exciting recreational opportunities, such as bow lounges and explorer wings, offering spectacular views and a closer connection to nature.

Wildlife spotting is significantly improved, with great views directly to the sea from various deck positions. The bow is an excellent observation spot to watch dolphins riding the bow wave.

National Geographic Resolution bow view with a Zodiac on water.
National Geographic Resolution bow view with a Zodiac on water.

3. On-board logistics

Passengers prefer to avoid unnecessary queuing and waiting during excursions. Ulstein has developed efficient and functional excursion logistics, ensuring safe and easy embarkation and disembarkation of tender boats, kayaks, and other equipment.

National Geographic Resolution, returning from a Zodiac landing.

4. Efficiency and cost savings

Ulstein's cruise ships are designed for efficiency. Reduced wave resistance leads to lower fuel consumption, translating to lower operational costs and higher profitability. The ships can be adjusted to various power setups and fuel types, including batteries or hybrid systems. Additional power-saving features like ULSTEIN ZED (allowing for 12-hour-emission-free excursions), heat recovery, and LED lighting contribute to significant savings over the vessel's lifespan.

Power systems on the ULSTEIN CX129

5. Safety and reliability

Safety is a top priority in Ulstein's designs. Robust construction and advanced safety systems protect both crew and passengers. The X-BOW design reduces slamming and vibrations, securing undisrupted rest and high comfort. Ulstein's vessels are reliable, ensuring fewer disruptions and consistent service, enhancing customer satisfaction. 

The bow shape keeps the bridge deck sheltered from sea spray. Ulstein's cruise ship designs can be delivered with high Polar Code notations for travelling in icy waters. 

Cruising on board Greg Mortimer in Antarctica

6. Sustainability and environmental responsibility

With increasing regulatory pressure and growing environmental awareness, sustainability has become essential for the cruise industry.

Ulstein’s cruise ships are designed to support a stepwise transition towards zero‑emission operations. The ability to integrate alternative power sources, combined with the option of dual‑fuel methanol/MGO engines, makes these vessels truly future‑ready. 

Energy efficiency is a key design priority, and multiple measures can be implemented to reduce power demand. Among them, the ULSTEIN X‑BOW® contributes to lower fuel consumption by cutting through waves with less resistance.

National Geographic Resolution cruising in the fjords of Norway.

7. A smart investment

Investing in Ulstein's cruise ship designs is a forward-thinking decision that will pay dividends for years to come. Operators and passengers alike will appreciate the superior performance and environmental responsibility that come with Ulstein's innovative vessels. 

The flexibility to adapt to new technologies and fuel options ensures these vessels remain relevant and competitive in the long term. This adaptability not only protects your investment but also positions your fleet as a leader in the industry.

“Many of our guests have travelled on other expedition ships before and immediately notice the difference. Whether it’s sleeping better at night or feeling less vibration, the design truly enhances the experience.” Aurora Expeditions.

8. Versatile and adaptable: Size range

Ulstein's cruise ships are designed for expedition cruises or destination travels. 

The low-PAX vessels can accommodate approximately 100-175 passengers (length 100m, beam 18m), while the largest vessels can take approximately 350-800 passengers or more (length 180m, beam 24m). 

All suites and cabins offer ocean views. 

These ships are built to operate in various conditions worldwide, from polar regions to tropical climates. We work closely with authorities during the early stages of design development to ensure our vessels comply with all classifications, regulations, and requirements.

A CX111 exploration cruise vessel, here seen in the Geiranger fjord.

9. From the first idea to turn-key delivery

Ulstein is a group of companies specialising in ship construction, ship design, solutions, and marine systems. We manage the entire project lifecycle, from initial ideas and sketches through design and engineering to construction, testing, and final delivery. Upon delivery, we provide a complete documentation package, including the latest versions of all drawings and manuals.

A shortlist of our portfolio

While our portfolio demonstrates our skills, we can adapt our designs to suit your precise requirements.

CX136 White Dec22 Sea SB Fore Low
GT: 14,770
PAX (passengers): 126
An ULSTEIN CX103 expedition cruise design.
GT: 8,035
PAX (passengers): 130-186
An Ulstein C129 luxury cruise vessel
GT: 7,500
PAX (passengers): 100-110
Web Albatros Expeditions I Christian Kruse 68 37188816

Why are vessels with the X-BOW more efficient?

The X‑BOW reduces slamming and energy loss by means of an optimised volume distribution, delivering smoother motions and improved crew comfort. Its performance remains consistent across varying draughts and speeds, unlike conventional flared bows that are optimised for a limited operating range.

Get in touch

Runar Muren DSC4429 comp bw

Runar Muren

Description
Managing Director
Affiliation
Ulstein Design & Solutions AS
DSC4285 comp bw

Torill Muren

Description
Lead Naval Architect
Affiliation
Ulstein Design & Solutions AS
Øyvind Kamsvåg DSC4257 comp bw

Øyvind Gjerde Kamsvåg

Description
Chief Designer
Affiliation
Ulstein International AS

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