Products & services

Starboard debuts vibrant, immersive retail experiences aboard Virgin Voyages’ newest ship, Brilliant Lady

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Products & services Products & services; Published: 13 September 2025 13 September 2025

Starboard Group, the world’s leading retail curator at sea, recently announced the latest expansion of its partnership with Virgin Voyages as the exclusive retail partner for Brilliant Lady. Starboard offers a vibrant, curated shopping experience at sea, blending luxury, sustainability and discovery across 5,500 square feet of retail space on the ship, which recently departed from New York City on its inaugural voyage. From exclusive, destination-inspired collections to iconic fashion, beauty and fine jewelry brands, the retail offering is designed to enhance the Virgin Voyages experience for every Sailor.

“We’re proud to continue building our partnership with Virgin Voyages as its exclusive retail partner for Brilliant Lady’s inaugural season,” said Lisa Bauer, Starboard’s President and CEO. “We’ve leveraged our curation expertise, creativity and global resources to create unforgettable retail offerings that perfectly reflect Virgin Voyages’ blend of modern, adults-only sophistication and rebellious fun.”

Starboard reimagined retail on Brilliant Lady through bold visual merchandising, open-flow boutiques and pop-up activations that create an experience that’s less traditional store and more concept gallery. From lab-created diamonds and limited-edition designer collections to sustainable fashion labels, cult beauty and destination-inspired assortments, Starboard brought trend-forward brands directly to sea.

“Starboard is unique in its ability to turn retail into an immersive lifestyle experience that enhances each voyage, and we’re pleased to expand our partnership as we launch Brilliant Lady,” said Nicole Huang, SVP of Fleet Experiences at Virgin Voyages. “Through thoughtful curation and one-of-a-kind activations that blend exclusivity, storytelling and personalization, Starboard is setting a new standard for cruise retail and helping ensure our Sailors have an unforgettable experience.”

First-at-sea luxury offerings

Aboard Brilliant Lady, Starboard is pioneering the future of cruise beauty retail with the launch of the very first Clarins boutique at sea, offering a tailored selection from the French luxury brand along with personalized beauty consultations and complete look transformations. Other first-at-sea offerings include stunning assortments from Blue Stallion Farm and cruelty-free, clean beauty from Briogeo. Men’s and women’s fragrances from the world’s most renowned luxury brands, including INITIO, Loewe, Mancera, Montale and Tom Ford, will also feature prominently. In addition, Virgin Voyages will debut its first TAG Heuer boutique and smart sunglasses from the new Ray-Ban® Meta AI collection onboard Brilliant Lady.

Immersive activations, personalization and sustainability

Multi-sensory activations that spark connection, create memories and foster discovery – such as exclusive liquor tastings, trunk shows and personalized styling sessions – will be key to the Brilliant Lady retail experience. Customization options range from the engraving of jewelry, fragrances and liquor bottles to personalization of apparel and accessories with Virgin Voyages – themed patches.

Sustainability is a core retail pillar, building on Virgin Voyages’ ethos of “Creating an Epic Sea Change for All.” The line already partners with like-minded brands that source responsibly, such as Yellow Leaf Hammocks and Intelligentsia. On Brilliant Lady’s High Street, Sailors discover an expertly curated selection designed to extend product life cycles and reduce environmental impact, from certified pre-owned Rolex watches to lab-grown diamonds by sustainable jewelry brand Engrace Diamonds to vintage luxury handbags from What Goes Around Comes Around. This commitment extends beyond retail, with initiatives like reusable mugs that help eliminate single-use plastic bottles.

Fine jewelry, designer fashion and destination-inspired finds

Brilliant Lady also feature fine jewelry from Roberto Coin, the Italian luxury brand celebrated for its craftsmanship, quality and design, along with artisan handcrafted pieces from John Hardy and modern, fashion-forward designs from Shy Creation. The fashion jewelry shop will offer collections from Uno de 50, Swarovski, Kendra Scott, Jet Set Candy and Shae, Starboard’s exclusive fashion jewelry brand.

The luxury accessories selection showcases handbags and small leather goods from Coach, Marc Jacobs and Kurt Geiger, complemented by a range of timepieces, from the Swiss precision of Frédérique Constant, Longines, Movado, Norqain and Tissot to the timeless appeal of Bulova and Citizen.

Women’s resortwear, accessories and lifestyle pieces from trend-forward labels such as Kiwi St. Tropez, Lamarque and Skemo are offered, while athleisure fans can enjoy stylish, functional Fabletics apparel for both men and women. Men’s fashion options will include contemporary picks from 7 Diamonds, Invicta, John Hatter & Co., Mavrans and New Era. Tees, tanks, hats, totes and sunglasses adorned with the iconic Virgin Voyages logo will also be available, along with a special collection celebrating Brilliant Lady’s inaugural season.

Brilliant Lady recently was launched from New York, making her way down the East Coast to her home port of Miami for a winter season in the Caribbean. In 2026, she will reposition to Los Angeles in preparation for her highly anticipated Alaska itineraries – a first for the Virgin Voyages fleet.

Heineken appoints Natalia Kuldyaeva as new Head of Global Duty Free business

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Products & services Products & services; Published: 12 September 2025 12 September 2025

Heineken has announced the appointment of Natalia Kuldyaeva as Global Duty Free Manager. In this strategic role, Natalia will lead the entire Heineken global duty free business across cruise lines, ferries, airlines, border stores and diplomatic channels, reinforcing the company's ambitions to expand its premium presence in travel environments worldwide.

Commenting on her new appointment, Natalia remarks, “I’m excited to be leading the Heineken business in global duty free, building on its already strong performance, and driving forward initiatives that align with the company’s global ambitions to become the partner of choice and to win the hearts of consumers. Our focus is on delivering premium experiences and championing sustainable innovation at every opportunity.

“Global Duty Free is a powerful channel, offering both commercial growth and brand-building opportunities. Travel environments are ideal for driving premiumization and visibility, enabling us to create memorable connections with travellers for our iconic brands such as Heineken, Heineken 0.0, Birra Moretti, Tiger, Amstel and Desperados, as well as regional favourites such as Red Stripe, and Cruzcampo. Together with our partners, we curate offerings tailored to the diverse preferences of multi-generation guests across cruise and air routes. In today’s challenging domestic landscape, global duty free stands out as a strategic touchpoint, engaging consumers during their journeys and reinforcing brand relevance when they return home.”

Since joining Heineken in 2003, Natalia has held a range of high-impact commercial roles including channel transformation, sales and marketing across several key international markets including the USA, Russia and Italy. Her leadership was instrumental in expansion of Heineken premium portfolio in these markets, delivering significant growth in volume and profitability.

WMS expands on 20-year partnership with Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Products & services Products & services; Published: 27 August 2025 27 August 2025

WMS, the leading global provider of cruise wireless connectivity, announces the expansion of its long-time partnership with Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NCLH), a leading global cruise company that operates Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises. This contract extension highlights WMS as the NCLH preferred partner for onboard cellular connectivity for guests and crew. NCLH was the first cruise operator to install a cellular network on an ocean-going cruise ship in 2004, and the partnership started what became a 20th Anniversary celebration for WMS last year.

“Our teams came together two decades ago with a shared goal to expand and enhance connectivity options onboard,” said Pramod Arora, president and CEO, WMS. “With an increasing demand for data, voice, and texting services at sea and on land, we are pleased to complement NCLH ship Wi-Fi service to provide seamless, affordable, and predictable connectivity for guests and crew to stay in touch with family, friends, and colleagues, sharing memories, and relaxing or working worry-free.”

WMS enables cellular voice, text, and email connectivity for 2.2 million annual NCLH passengers. As the cruise operator’s wireless connectivity provider, WMS handles the installation, management, and maintenance of onboard cellular networks and services, in addition to helping NCLH brands communicate connectivity options for guests and crew. While Wi-Fi is optimal for heavy data users for high bandwidth applications such as streaming video, cellular is well suited for the moderate data user who sends texts, emails, or makes voice calls. Some passengers choose both Wi-Fi and cellular for their multiple devices, family members, and applications.

“WMS has been a value-driving partner for two decades,” said Chad Berkshire, executive vice president and chief commercial officer at NCLH. “Key to our connectivity ecosystem, we can deliver on the variety of guest and crew needs to drive satisfaction in their overall cruising experience.”

WMS started innovating in 2004 when it revolutionized maritime communications by launching the first cellular service on an NCLH cruise ship. Since then, WMS became the first to offer 3G, 4G, and 5G connectivity at sea. WMS continuously invests in the latest wireless technology, enabling leading connectivity services. WMS expert engineers, onboard technicians, and network management center professionals focus on delivering leading cellular connectivity in the most challenging environments. Through 400+ cellular roaming partners, WMS continuously tailors its offerings, now including day passes, cruise plans, and eSIM data services. WMS is agnostic in terms of satellite operators for cellular backhaul, aligning with all cruise line infrastructure investments. In 2023, WMS became the first to integrate with low Earth orbit satellite technology, including Starlink, and in 2024 WMS offered the first live 5G cellular service on ocean-going cruise lines.

Wärtsilä and Wasaline’s cooperation continues with world’s largest marine battery hybrid system project

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Products & services Products & services; Published: 31 August 2025 31 August 2025

Technology group Wärtsilä has been selected as the electrical integrator for a major battery extension project for the Wasaline ropax ferry Aurora Botnia. The project will increase the ship’s battery capacity by 10.4 MWh, from 2.2 MWh to 12.6 MWh, making it the world’s largest marine battery hybrid system in operation. The order with Wärtsilä was booked in Q3 2025.

In the transition to more sustainable ferry transportation, hybrid propulsion systems have emerged as a compelling solution, offering a multitude of pathways to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. These systems, which combine energy storage capabilities with conventional engines, can significantly cut fuel consumption and, consequently, emissions.

The Aurora Botnia ferry, which is operated by Wasaline, is equipped with dual-fuel engines and batteries and is using biogas and batteries for the propulsion. Expanding its battery capacity is a major step in making the ship even more sustainable. Wärtsilä will lead the integration project and as a result, the battery capacity of the ferry will be extended by 10.4MWh. Wärtsilä will also deliver the Energy Management System, as well as upgrade the power drives and the control system integration. The system is scheduled to be commissioned in early 2026.

“Wasaline’s commitment to decarbonised shipping operations is central to everything we do,” says Peter Ståhlberg, Managing Director – Wasaline. “In this, our close cooperation with Wärtsilä is an essential element that benefits not only both our companies, and we can see that our cooperation sets standards for the whole marine sector. Through our continued collaboration, the ‘Aurora Botnia’ has become a working example of what is possible when it comes to delivering environmentally friendly transportation within shipping.”

This latest project will strengthen the existing collaboration agreement between Wärtsilä and Wasaline, with the Aurora Botnia acting as a floating testlab linked to Wärtsilä’s Sustainable Technology Hub. It allows further development of hybrid technologies to optimise fuel efficiency and minimise exhaust emissions. As a result, the vessel is one of the most environmentally sustainable ferries in the world, operating carbon neutrally already today.

“Wasaline once again demonstrates its strong commitment to decarbonisation by extending the electrification capacity of this ferry. Our latest contribution will optimise the ship's operations even further, creating fuel savings and a significant reduction in emissions,” comments Roger Holm, President of Wärtsilä Marine & Executive Vice President at Wärtsilä Corporation.

The Aurora Botnia, which entered into service in 2021, operates with a range of integrated Wärtsilä solutions, including four highly efficient Wärtsilä 31DF engines. The ultra-low emissions version of the engine has helped the ferry to significantly reduce methane emissions. The ferry operates between Vaasa in Finland and Umeå, Sweden.

Le Groupe ALMACO secures major contract from Davie to outfit Canadian Coast Guard’s Polar Max Icebreaker

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Products & services Products & services; Published: 22 August 2025 22 August 2025

The execution plan for Polar Max is an international collaboration between Davie and ALMACO, spanning both Canada and Finland. The hull will be constructed at Davie-owned Helsinki Shipyard, with Le Groupe ALMACO delivering interior accommodation spaces and other essential areas during this stage. In parallel, in Québec, Davie’s shipbuilders and Le Groupe ALMACO will lead the design, procurement, and fabrication of the 1,400-ton superstructure – the top part of the ship.

This dual-build approach not only leverages expertise across two continents but also accelerates the project timeline by allowing major work to proceed simultaneously in both locations and guarantee the timely delivery of the ship to the Government of Canada. Once the hull is transported from Finland to Canada, the superstructure will be integrated at Davie’s facility in Lévis, Québec. This approach follows a proven process, successfully used for the delivery of Combat Support Ship (CSS) Asterix to the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN). Work on the superstructure begins in late summer, with final integration and vessel delivery to Canada by 2030.

Expanding ALMACO Group’s presence in Québec

To support the Polar Max project and to create a long-term presence, ALMACO is expanding its operations in Canada. ALMACO set up operations in Québec already in 2022 and will open a new Le Groupe ALMACO office in Québec City in September 2025.

Québec’s role in the Polar Max program further reinforces its position as a global shipbuilding hub, recognized for innovation, technical excellence, and a highly skilled workforce. In delivering the project, Davie and ALMACO intend to collaborate extensively with subcontractors across Québec and Canada’s broader shipbuilding industry, ensuring that expertise and economic benefits are shared nationwide. As part of this effort, ALMACO’s role in the Polar Max will generate new jobs in Québec, creating opportunities for local talent and driving long-term growth in the province’s advanced marine sector.

The company has launched a major recruitment program, combining the know-how of ALMACO’s Europe-based employees with the skills of Canadian professionals. Le Groupe ALMACO is committed to employing local talent in all functions – from engineering and project management to manufacturing and other roles.

A shared commitment to Canada’s maritime future

“Working with Davie again is a proud moment for us,” said Vilhelm Roberts, Executive Chairman of the Board and Co-owner of ALMACO Group. “We’ve maintained a close relationship with their team ever since the Asterix Project, and this new contract confirms our shared ambition to deliver world-class vessels while growing local expertise and capacity. We’re not just outfitting a ship – we’re helping to build the future of Canadian shipbuilding together.”

“Polar Max is a once-in-a-generation project that demands the very best from every partner involved, said Davie co-owner and CEO, James Davies. “Our work with ALMACO on Asterix proved that when we combine their world-class expertise with Canadian ingenuity, we deliver faster, better and with greater impact. This is a lasting partnership which will not only help deliver Polar Max on time and to the highest standard – it will also create jobs and develop skills and industrial capability here in Canada.”

Davie is a key player in Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy. ALMACO is honoured to support this important national initiative and looks forward to continuing its collaboration with Davie on Polar Max, and beyond.

“This is great news that ALMACO has chosen Québec to expand its activities and partner with Davie on the Polar Max Icebreaker project. The National Shipbuilding Strategy continues to generate exciting opportunities for Canada’s shipbuilding industry, creating high-value jobs and strengthening our economy while advancing shipbuilding expertise in Québec and across the country,” said the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Québec Regions.

“The Polar Max project is an excellent example of how Canadian industry and international partners can collaborate to deliver world-class capabilities while creating good-paying jobs here at home. With ALMACO expanding its footprint in Québec, we can expect more skilled jobs, greater shipbuilding expertise, and a stronger, more resilient Canadian marine sector. As a key project under the National Shipbuilding Strategy, the Polar Max icebreaker will contribute to a more modern, capable Canadian Coast Guard fleet and secure long-term economic growth and shipbuilding capacity for our country,” said the Honourable Stephen Fuhr, Secretary of State for Defence Procurement, Canada.

“Davie’s leadership in the Polar Max project is a powerful driver of economic growth for Québec,” said Christopher Skeete, Minister for the Economy. “The collaboration between Davie and the ALMACO Group will generate business opportunities in both jurisdictions’ naval sectors. It will also consolidate Québec’s position as a shipbuilding hub, while recognizing the strategic importance placed on the Arctic in the 21st century.”

A trusted partnership renewed

The Polar Max project represents a significant milestone in the long-standing collaboration between Davie and ALMACO Group. Their previous partnership to deliver the CSS Asterix to the Royal Canadian Navy in 2017 created lasting impact on the Canadian and international maritime industries. The Polar Max contract highlights the trust and shared commitment to delivering top-tier marine outfitting and advancing shipbuilding excellence in Canada.

Introducing mobile cabin factory for modular cabins

A local “cabin factory” will be established in Québec. This facility, a first of its kind in Canada, will allow Le Groupe ALMACO to produce pre-fabricated modular cabins on site, significantly improving project logistics, efficiency, and quality assurance. The move supports Le Groupe ALMACO and Davie’s shared vision of building local capabilities and fostering long-term industrial growth in the Canadian marine sector.