A designer's illustration of the Ocean Victory expedition cruise vessel.

Ocean Victory ready for sea trial

The expedition cruise vessel 'Ocean Victory', under construction at the CMHI yard in China, is scheduled for sea trials in the end of week 3, 2021. This is vessel number three in the series of Ulstein designed X-BOW expedition cruise vessel of the CX103 design for SunStone Ships.

All the expedition cruise vessels are on long-term hire to various operators. The 'Ocean Victory' has been chartered out to Albatros Travel for Antarctica journeys in the winter season and to American Queen Steamboat Co., through its sister company Victory Cruises, for Alaska cruises in the summer.

The INFINITY series of expedition cruise vessels are the first to be designed with the ULSTEIN X-BOW. Although proven in more than 100 ships, mostly offshore ships, the introduction of this feature to the cruise industry has redefined the cruising experience. In head seas, the impact will be absorbed, leading to reduced vibrations and reduced sea spray. This means that during the sea crossings, the vessel can keep higher speed, while comfort level is high. Important to note is that reduced friction when moving forward means reduced fuel consumption, which in turn, leads to reduced harmful emissions.
 

The vessel offers 93 suites.

Latest news

Greg Mortimer's X-BOW cutting the seas, photo: Scott Portelli/Aurora Expeditions.
Feature

Aurora Expeditions: Redefining small-ship exploration with X-BOW® designs

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.

Employees from Ulstein Design Solutions AS ULS 01203 PES7868
Press Release

Ulstein Group awarded IDC’s ‘Teamwork of the Year 2025’

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."