Villa Vie Residences purchases Fred. Olsen's Braemar

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

Category: More News More News

Published: 14 December 2023 14 December 2023

Villa Vie Residences has purchased a ship to be named Villa Vie Odyssey. The 924-passenger, 24,344 gross ton vessel will enter service in May 2024 following the completion of a multimillion-dollar transformation into a residential cruise ship.

Villa Vie Odyssey will offer an intimate, new lifestyle of exploration, able to reach parts of the world that larger ships cannot access, often docking in the heart of destinations. The ship’s flatter hull which enables her to navigate inland waterways and rivers too. In October 2019, she became the longest ship ever to transit the Corinth Canal.

“Villa Vie Odyssey will be customized for her immersive, 3.5-year continuous circumnavigations, ensuring all the comforts and amenities of home”, states Villa Vie Residences CEO Mikael Petterson. She will feature eight decks, a wrap-around promenade, three restaurants, eight bars and four lounges, a lengthened with four Jacuzzis, a spa and fitness center, and a well-stocked library.

Additionally, she will feature a large central business center, with private offices, conference spaces and high-speed internet by both Starlink and Viasat 3 allowing residents to work and travel throughout all parts of the world. The ship will also feature an interactive and educational culinary center, as well as a pioneering golf-around the world program complete with onboard golf simulator and tours and classes led by a Master PGA Professional.

A new paradigm in global living and travel

Amongst the things unique to the company is its ‘for the residents, by the residents’ approach. As founders themselves, residents own the majority of Villa Vie’s shares and actively participate in decision making Laura, a Founders Club member and resident, shares, "Villa Vie isn't like a regular corporation–it's open and we feel a part of it.”

Saying goodbye to the fatigue of travel planning, residents wake up in the comfort of their homes, embracing the joys of exploration while indulging in culinary delights from local chefs featured across its inclusive restaurants. Further setting it apart from traditional cruises, Villa Vie focuses on extended stays in ports, ranging from 2 to 7 days. This approach allows residents ample time to connect with each destination, living each day as a new holiday.

Villa Vie offers two all-inclusive options for those seeking a home from which to explore the world - at a price comparable to traditional condominium ownership.
– Ownership starts at $99,999, with monthly maintenance fees starting at $1,750 per person.
– A “pay-as-you-go” concept that allows travelers to select and combine various portions of its world cruise itinerary with only a 10% upfront deposit - starting at $89 per day.

Residents of Villa Vie Odyssey are not just travelers; they're part of a vibrant, borderless community. Through arts, resident led activities, and its NGO oriented Portage Club, they build lasting connections and can engage meaningfully with local communities at each destination. This model of community-oriented living extends beyond traditional travel experiences, fostering a meaningful sense of belonging.

T. Mariotti signs final ship building contract with Aman at Sea

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

Category: More News More News

Published: 13 December 2023 13 December 2023

T. Mariotti S.p.A has signed the ship building contract with the world's preeminent hospitality and lifestyle brand, Aman Group, and Cruise Saudi, for Aman at Sea. A first of its kind luxury motor yacht in a joint venture with Cruise Saudi set to launch in 2027, "T. Mariotti shipyard will provide the highest standard of design and continue to set new benchmarks in ultra-luxury ship building," the shipyard said in a statement.

True to the pioneering ethos of the brand, Aman is directing the entire development process of the project. In January, Aman and Cruise Saudi announced the appointment of T. Mariotti to deliver their vision for a pioneering superyacht, ensuring the ultra-luxury vessel mirrors the level of detail and care experienced across Aman’s hotels. The building of Aman at Sea will showcase the valuable knowledge and expertise of T. Mariotti’s fine Italian craftsmen and contractors such as electrotechnical specialists Ortec Santamaria and luxury yacht outfitters De Wave Group, who will bring to life the vision of appointed designers SINOT Yacht Architecture & Design. The ship will be built under Lloyd’s Register class.

“Today we celebrate another milestone for T. Mariotti and the Genova Industrie Navali Group” – Marco Ghiglione, CEO of T. Mariotti says – “We are proud that Aman Group has trusted and selected our shipyard for this pioneering project representing the first and true convergence between an ultra-luxury ship and a private yacht: undoubtedly creating a new category of vessel and the first with dual fuel technology (marine gasoil and green methanol, note)."

Speaking about the appointment of T. Mariotti, Chairman and CEO of Aman Group, Vlad Doronin commented: “With 35 hotels, resorts and branded residences across 20 destinations, Aman at Sea marks a new direction for the brand and the chance to bring Aman’s exceptional design, which is integral to the brand’s ethos, into an entirely new setting. We take pride in working with those who are best in class for their industry and in partnering with T. Mariotti, it enables us to fulfil our strategic vision of bringing the spirit of Aman to the world’s oceans, reframing luxury hospitality and creating a whole new category in on the water discovery. The signing of the shipbuilding contract is a significant milestone for Aman Group and an exciting moment in our esteemed partnership with T. Mariotti.”

The financing for T. Mariotti has been granted by a pool led by Intesa Sanpaolo and coordinated by Nanni Grazzini. Acting as an industrial reality since 1928, Mariotti is proud to be a sponsor of the Made in Italy, contributing to the growth of the city of Genoa and to its worldwide consolidation not only in the maritime business.

Coinciding with the celebration to mark the signing of the shipbuilding contract with T. Mariotti, Aman announced the appointment of Jonathan Wilson as Chief Executive Officer of Aman at Sea. Jonathan will lead the development and implementation of Aman’s first luxury superyacht, working closely with Chairman and CEO, Vlad Doronin, to deliver the brand’s vision.

At 183 metres (600ft), the vessel will be the first dual fuel powered new build, using marine diesel oil and methanol to run, showcasing Aman Group’s commitment to sustainability while offering a one-of-a-kind experience on the water. Featuring just 50 spacious luxury suites, each will include its own private balcony. The vessel will be home to an array of dining options, including an informal all-day restaurant, plus international dining options and a relaxed club and lounge, a serene and spacious Aman Spa, complete with Japanese garden, two helipads, plus the expansive Beach Club, which will offer guests direct access to the water at the stern of the yacht.

Expected to launch in 2027, Aman at Sea will set a new standard in waterborne voyages whilst also bringing the cherished spirit of Aman to the world’s seas and oceans. The vessel’s official name will be announced in due course.

Finnlines takes delivery of its second ropax ferry

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

Category: More News More News

Published: 13 December 2023 13 December 2023

Finnlines took delivery of Finncanopus, which is the second of two Superstar-series freight-passenger (ropax) vessels, at the China Merchants Jinling Shipyard in Weihai, China, on 12 December 2023. The vessel will enter Finnlines’ route between Finland and Sweden (Naantali–Långnäs–Kapellskär). Finncanopus is scheduled to start in traffic in February 2024.

To commemorate the delivery, a ceremony with representatives from Finnlines and the shipyard was held on site. The homeward voyage is expected to take 6-7 weeks as Finncanopus will be nearly fully loaded with freight and will call several ports before entering the Baltic Sea. Finncanopus is scheduled to begin service in February 2024.

The new ropax vessels are part of Finnlines EUR 500-million Green Newbuilding Programme, which has now been completed. The programme comprised two hybrid ro-pax and three hybrid ro-ro vessels, all equipped with state-of-the-art eco-friendly technology. The first Superstar ro-pax vessel, Finnsirius, was delivered to Finnlines in July and she entered the Naantali–Långnäs–Kapellskär route in September 2023. Finncanopus will join Finnsirius on the route, departing from Naantali in the evening and from Kapellskär in the morning. The three hybrid ro-ro vessels started operating in summer 2022.

“Finnlines has made substantial investments in sustainable and eco-friendly technologies, positioning itself competitively. Our investment programmes align with the Grimaldi Group’s strategy aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and to reduce CO2 emissions. The new vessels support customers in their transition towards sustainability and environmental responsibility. Therefore, Finnlines continues its green transition and thus makes its best efforts to serve its customers in the most sustainable way. Finnlines’ EUR 500-million Green Newbuilding Investment Programme, which started in 2018, is now completed. This programme clearly demonstrates our unwavering commitment to the environment, to our customers, and to our other stakeholders.” said Tom Pippingsköld, President and CEO of Finnlines today at the delivery ceremony in Weihai Shipyard, in China.

The two sister vessels are the largest ropax vessels in the Finnlines fleet. Both have 5,200 lane metres for cargo and both have been certified to carry 1,100 passengers.

“Finnlines entered the hybrid era last year with the introduction of our new hybrid ro-ro vessels, and these Superstar class vessels are further advancing this transition. This strategic move enables us to deliver not only more efficient but also more sustainable sea transport services. Our substantial investment reinforces our position in providing top-tier services for our customers,” said Juha Ahia, who manages Finnlines’ Newbuilding team.

Finnlines core business is carriage of freight to serve Finnish and European exports and imports, but passenger traffic is also integral in its operational concept. The Åland Islands, like mainland Finland, are fully dependent on maritime bridges. In particular, for residents commuting between Åland and Sweden or Finland, a scheduled liner services is crucial. Moreover, Finnlines’ ships have always space to accommodate passenger vehicles.

“Finnlines is the market leader on this route and our new Superstar vessels represent a completely new standard for ro-pax transport in the Baltic Sea, both for freight and passenger traffic. Finnsirius has been warmly welcomed by private passengers and professional drivers also appreciate upgraded services. When Finncanopus enters traffic, the current smaller ro-pax vessel will be transferred to our route between Sweden and Germany. This way we can improve our services on another important maritime connection,” said Antonio Raimo, Line Manager at Finnlines.

Ship particulars, Finncanopus
Type of vessel: freight-passenger / Ro-pax
Ice class: 1 A Super
Length, overall: 235.0 m
Breadth, moulded: 33.3 m
Gross tonnage: 65,692
Lane metres: 5,200
Design speed: 16 / 20.5 knots
Engine output: 4 x 7,200 kW
Flag: Finland
Passengers: 1,100
Passenger cabins: 323
Route: Finland–Sweden (Naantali–Långnäs–Kapellskär)

Princess Cruises joins with artist Romero Britto to offer new specialty dining experience on the Sun Princess

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

Category: More News More News

Published: 11 December 2023 11 December 2023

In a first-of-its-kind collaboration, Princess Cruises has announced it is joining with Romero Britto, the world-renowned artist known for his bold, colorful, and joyful style, and a global advocate for happiness, to create Love by Britto, an artistic-inspired dining experience celebrating the essence of “Love” aboard Sun Princess.

Located on deck 17 at the aft of the new ship, Love by Britto is a groundbreaking addition to the Sun Princess experience portfolio. The new dining experience serves as an exquisite showcase of the artist’s iconic and joyful designs against the backdrop of a boutique restaurant venue designed to immerse couples in a world of vivid colors, bold patterns, and heartfelt emotions, and create an ambiance of extraordinary service immersion.

Love and art converge with taste in an immersive culinary journey, showcasing a meticulously curated menu by culinary virtuoso Rudi Sodamin. With Sodamin’s ingenious touch, Love by Britto transcends into a multisensory exploration, offering extraordinary dishes that embody profound passion, exquisite flavor, and boundless creativity.

“Love by Britto on the Sun Princess celebrates the universal language of love, expressed through Britto’s vibrant art and design and promises to be uplifting and transformative for our guests," said John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises. "With a perfect blend of art, beauty, and soul, Love by Britto is destined to leave a lasting impression.”

Set to debut when the newest ship from The Love Boat launches in early 2024, all elements of the innovative new concept - the setting, the artwork, the menu – have been uniquely designed to create an unparalleled dining destination. Love by Britto is a testament to Princess Cruises' unwavering commitment to creating exceptional experiences that transcend the ordinary.

“With Love by Britto, we’ve created a one-of-a-kind experience that showcases the harmony between food, art, and the universal language of love, to create an experience that’s meant to be savored,” said Britto. “On the amazing Sun Princess, we’re going to celebrate love for life every evening by pairing an incredibly unique vibe along with exceptional cuisine to create a setting for everyone to indulge their senses and emotions.”

“Considered the most licensed artist in history, Britto is the founder of the Happy Art Movement and has created an iconic visual language of happiness, fun, love, and hope all its own inspiring millions worldwide,” added Lucas Vidal, CEO of the BRITTO brand and organization.

Brazilian-born and Miami-made, Britto’s work has been exhibited in the most prestigious galleries and museums in over 120 countries, including the Carrousel Du Louvre and he was the first living visual artist to present his work at the Soumaya Museum. He also has created innumerous public and private art installations, not to mention the largest in the history of London’s Hyde Park. He did the opening of the Super Bowl XLI in collaboration with the Cirque Du Soleil, was the official artist for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa, ambassador to the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil, honorary torch bearer and ambassador for the Rio 2016 Olympic Games.

Love by Britto will feature a seven-course, prix fixe menu ($149 per person) beginning with a flute of Champagne upon arrival and features luxury ingredients including lobster, caviar and truffles, and dessert options that always include chocolate fondue.

Specifically featured across the seven-course meal are dishes highlighted by delectable and intoxicating aphrodisiacs, like Oysters with Champagne Pearls or Grilled Fig with Prosciutto and Roquefort as featured starters, followed by savory soups like Asparagus and Watermelon Cocktail with Vodka.

Also on the menu are savory salad options that feature quail eggs, pomegranate and avocado. Fish dishes like Lobster Thermidor with Clams and Wild Rice, and Honey-Basted Wild Salmon. Meats like Wagyu Chateaubriand Rossini and Roast Quail Farci with Truffles. Champagne flavored sorbet with Rose Petals to cleanse the palate. And heavenly dessert options in addition to chocolate fondue that range from Iced Soufflé Tahiti Vanilla and White Valrhona Chocolate with Hot Raspberries, to Hot Chocolate Soufflé with Hot Bing Cherries.

“Food is the international language of love,” said Rudi Sodamin, head of culinary arts for Princess Cruises. “It could not be more perfect for Princess, home of The Love Boat!”

Love by Britto headlines a delectable assortment of expanded restaurant options aboard the highly anticipated Sun Princess, the next generation ship from Princess.

Other new selections among the 30 exciting bars and restaurant found onboard include a Princess first Japanese Teppanyaki restaurant, an authentic Irish Pub, a new area to dedicated to casual eats, a completely revamped approach to World Fresh Marketplace, and two exciting pop-up concepts from celebrity chefs Dario Cecchini, and Sodamin, along with Princess favorites like Crown Grill, Sabatini’s, Kai Sushi and Alfredo’s Pizzeria.

The new ship places a premium on fresh cuisine and craft cocktails while offering spectacular views, from casual al fresco bistros and a fresh daily marketplace, to a lively pub, Asian-inspired sushi and

“We’ve been inspired to design restaurants and lounges that reflect the stunning views, ocean vistas and sunshiny days that will be experienced across Sun Princess,” added Padgett. “New and favorite venues will serve up vibrant flavors, pour perfectly satisfying cocktails and offer the most amazing settings for our guests to share stories around the table.”

Currently under construction at the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy, the 175,500-ton, 4,300-guest Sun Princess will also offer an array of exciting new entertainment and activity offerings, as well as luxurious staterooms and suites across a broad spectrum of categories.

With the most balconies on any Princess ship, guests can take in the sunshine and crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean and Caribbean from the comfort of their stateroom. The Dome, a transformational entertainment venue inspired by the terraces of Santorini, is the perfect place to relax and the Arena is an evolution and the most technologically advanced Princess Theater design.

Sun Princess will also feature the exclusive Princess Medallion that will extend Princess’ leadership position in delivering exceptional personalized experiences typical of small ships while enjoying only the best large ship amenities.