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

Yno 317 Nexans Electra in dock hall partly painted ULS 03508 DJI 20250919133134 0044 D
Feature

Behind the scenes: The construction of the cable-laying vessel Nexans Electra

The shipbuilding construction of Nexans Electra is approaching its final phase in the dock, before the comprehensive work continues quayside ahead of sea trials in spring 2026. How do you organise a staff of hundreds of workers, subcontractors and suppliers over several months to deliver the project on time and within budget? Join project manager Runar Toftesund at Ulstein Verft for a look behind the scenes.

Blue Ctrl personnel testing one of the operation stations
Update

New Managing Director at Blue Ctrl

The Ålesund-based company Blue Ctrl is making strategic changes to its leadership to strengthen its continued growth and position within the maritime technology sector. On 1 November, Marielle Furnes Mannseth will assume the role of Managing Director of the company.

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.