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

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's nine reasons why investing in Ulstein's cruise vessels benefit ship owners, operators and passengers.

Published
21 March 2025
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More bang for your buck

1. Optimised itineraries: Shorter transits, more time to explore

Ulstein's X-BOW® design minimises wave resistance, allowing ships to maintain higher speeds with 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

  • Expedition cruise vessel Sylvia Earle of the CX103 design ULS 02487
    Sylvia Earle exploring the glacier shelf at Svalbard.
  • Sylvia Earle interior ULS 02677
    Spectacular bow views from the fore staircase on the Sylvia Earle.
  • Greg Mortimer kayakers, photo Aurora Expeditions.
    Excursions from the Greg Mortimer.
  • The observation deck on the Sylvia Earle.
    Observation deck on the Sylvia Earle
  • "Tropical sauna" on the NG Endurance.
    "Tropical sauna" on the NG Endurance.
  • Sylvia Earle exterior ULS 02680
    Pool area on the Sylvia Earle
  • Ocean Victory in Antarctica.
    Ocean Victory in Antarctica
  • The National Geographic Endurance in polar waters.
    The National Geographic Endurance in polar waters.

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 and underwater 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 level from various deck positions. The bow is an excellent observation spot to watch dolphins riding the bow wave.

National Geographic Resolution, tour on a Zodiac.

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.

Power systems on the ULSTEIN CX129

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.

View from the bow on the National Geographic Resolution straight down to the sea.

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. 

Penguins and the Ocean Victory at the naming ceremony, South Georgia in Antarctica.

6. Sustainability and environmental responsibility

With increasing regulatory pressure and growing environmental awareness, sustainability is essential. 

Ulstein's cruise ships are designed for a stepwise transition towards zero-emission operations. The potential for integrating alternative power sources and the possibility of using dual fuel methanol/MGO engines make these vessels future-proof. Power saving is a high focus in design, and several measures can be included to improve this.

The naming of the NG Endurance at her first trip, Greenland.

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.

A state-of-the-art polar expedition cruise ship from Ulstein - comfort first.

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.

Close cooperation in Ulstein

9. From the first idea to turn-key delivery

Ulstein is a group of companies specialising in ship construction, designs, solutions, and marine systems. We follow the complete project, from first ideas and sketches through design and engineering to construction, testing, and finishing. Upon delivery, we will hand over a full package of the latest version of the drawings and manuals.

A shortlist of our portfolio

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

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Lars Ståle Skoge DSC4468 comp bw

Lars Ståle Skoge

Description
Commercial Director
Affiliation
Ulstein Design & Solutions AS

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'Greg Mortimer' bow area, photo by Peter Szyszka.
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Lars Ståle Skoge DSC4468 comp bw

Lars Ståle Skoge

Commercial Director

Affiliation
Ulstein Design & Solutions AS