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Viken Group introduces 196-metre cruise yacht project

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 29 April 2025 29 April 2025

Viken Group has released a brand-new, sustainable, cruise yacht concept: REI.

REI is a 196m cruise yacht developed by the Viken Group. Blending adventure, sustainability, and exclusivity, it offers an ever-evolving guest experience with cutting-edge design.

The 196-metre project serves to solidify the company’s status as the true pioneer of this new luxury cruise yacht segment. REI is a collaborative effort between all three brands of the Viken Group — TDoS (Tillberg Design of Sweden) with its 60 years of experience in high-end cruise ship design, along with Hot Lab and Thalia Marine.

Fredrik Johansson, Co-Founder of the Viken Group and Executive Director of TDoS, comments: “We are thrilled to introduce REI. The 196-metre project is the perfect illustration of the combined offerings of the Viken Group, where we manage exterior styling, engineering, master planning and interior under one umbrella. We can thereby help our clients in streamlining the process dramatically, controlling the investment, and optimising the outcome for both the guest and the operator. The yacht will come out and make money much sooner - and be far more successful and prosperous during its lifespan”.

Purposeful exteriors, tranquil inside

Martin Butler, Creative Director at TDoS, comments on her design: “With her streamlined lines creating an understated yet striking impression on the water, REI’s exteriors draw their inspiration from nature: a protective and hard outer shell encasing a soft, cosy interior. The purposeful exterior design, with its dynamic and progressive curves, nods towards a technical, industrial and automotive aesthetic.”

In contrast, her contemporary interior offers guests a balance of warmth, tactile materials and lighting which adjusts according to the desired atmosphere and comfort levels. Step inside and slow down. Here, you can experience tranquillity and a rare digital detox.

Beautifully balanced private and public spaces

Spanning 196 metres across a vast 10 decks and with a generous beam of 28 metres, REI can accommodate up to 112 guests and 125 crew members who bring outstanding levels of service on board. Highly efficient in her layout, she features one main avenue which cleverly connects all of the different entertainment areas on board.

Indeed, REI’s carefully considered design is laser-focused on boosting the guest experience and provides the perfect balance between private and shared spaces, with numerous dedicated areas available for exclusive use.

As Enrico Lumini, co-founder and design director of Hot Lab, part of the Viken Group, explains: “Exterior deck spaces can be booked for private functions, and guests can enjoy relaxing in private pools connected to the suites’ beautiful terraces as well as letting off steam in semi-private spas.”

As a truly exceptional cruise yacht in both her scale and technical capabilities, REI—whose multi-faceted name has many connotations, including ‘beautiful’ and ‘graceful’ in Japanese—has too many outstanding areas to name.

Focusing on just a few, REI’s duplex suites provide private winter gardens with pools and massage areas. Other notable amenities include her double-height windows, which showcase uninterrupted panoramic views and connect to a spa and observation lounge, as well as her stunning forward infinity pool.

Ultra-sustainable and adventure-ready

With numerous potential sustainable propulsion possibilities – electric, hydrogen, solar and wind – REI is primed and ready for globe-trotting adventures. A secondary 27-metre expedition vessel, which could be powered by electric or solar power, would provide those on board with easy embarkation and disembarkation aft thanks to its adaptable and multipurpose beach club/sea courtyard.

An unrepeatable onboard journey

Furthermore, guests on board REI will also experience a unique itinerary unmatched by any other expedition craft. This dynamic cruise yacht would offer an ‘ever-evolving’ journey, with the general entertainment, activities and menus changing depending on the time of year and the area visited, thus enabling guests to be fully immersed in their surroundings.

Its exploratory dining experience is themed ‘from sea, to land, to sky’ and is set to provide guests with a diverse and delectable range of cuisines. Thanks to this constant adaptation, REI can be described as truly ‘alive’ to the needs of those lucky enough to stay on board.

 Antonio Romano, Commercial and Marketing Director at Viken Group added: “The market for cruise yachts is currently looking very promising. The Four Seasons yacht will hit the water soon, and numerous other high-end brands are looking to enter this space. Thanks to our three brands – TDoS, Hot Lab, and Thalia Marine – Viken Group can harness our unique expertise across superyachts, cruise ships and refits, meaning we are perfectly positioned to make our mark.”

Victory I christened in Toronto

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 27 April 2025 27 April 2025

Victory Cruise Lines, committed to all-inclusive, small ship, coastal cruising on The Great Lakes and Canadian Coasts, successfully christened the Victory I in Toronto on April 27, 2025. The moment signified a triumphant return of the cruise line, led by Founder and CEO John Waggoner, who closed on the purchase of the 190-guest Victory I and sister-ship Victory II just under one year ago. Both ships were purposely built for the Great Lakes, offering a refreshing alternative to river and ocean cruising.

Victory Cruise Lines offers the most cruises, 33 departures in 2025, that hit all five Great Lakes in one voyage. The cruise line is also the only company to dock at Chicago’s downtown Navy Pier, where Victory II will be christened May 12, 2025. Both ships will operate 10-15 night voyages from Chicago, Toronto, Milwaukee and Montreal now through October.

“As we celebrate the return of Victory Cruise Lines to the Great Lakes, I must reflect on the amazing feat by an incredible team that has brought this vision to life once again,” said John Waggoner, founder and CEO, Victory Cruise Lines. “Thank you to everyone here, as well as those not in the room today, that have believed in us and this dream to share our passion for cruising here on the Great Lakes.”

The christening ceremony took place onboard in the Compass Lounge, first honoring the United States and Canada with the singing of the national anthems, as both share the Great Lakes. Remarks were made by Destination Toronto Vice President Destination Development Kelly Jackson, National Museum of the Great Lakes Executive Director Kate Fineske, Victory Cruise Lines Chief Operating Officer David William Kelly and John Waggoner. The highlight of the ceremony was Godmother Emily Coleman, daughter of John and Claudette Waggoner, breaking a bottle of Crown Royal Canadian Whisky on the ship’s bow officially christening the vessel with the skyline of Toronto in the background.

“Victory Cruise Lines will bring thousands of visitors to Toronto, with many taking time to explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods, culture, and cuisine,” shared Kelly Jackson on behalf of Destination Toronto. “Cruise visitation supports local jobs and businesses across the city and Victory's resumption of service underscores Toronto’s growing role as a key port in the Great Lakes cruise market ”

Victory I’s inaugural sailing is the cruise line’s most popular itinerary, 10-nights between Toronto and Chicago including a pre-cruise hotel with ports of call including Port Colborne (Niagara Falls), Cleveland, Detroit, Sault Ste. Marie, Mackinac Island and Escanaba, Michigan. Victory Cruise Lines included excursions give guests an opportunity to enjoy a one to three hour experience in each port of call with multiple times the excursion is offered to ensure all guests are able to choose an option. Highlights include the The Henry Ford Experience in Detroit, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland and the Soo Locks & Maritime Heritage Tour in Sault Ste. Marie.

Onboard, guests enjoy three dining options including Tuscan Stone Grill, a new inclusive interactive concept in The Grill for dinner. Originally created by Victory Cruise Lines COO David William Kelly and Anglo-Eastern Leisure’s Dietmar Wertanzl, Tuscan Stone Grill delivers an upscale interactive dining experience utilizing hot stones for guests cooking at their table, in a space spanning the stern, offering expansive views of The Great Lakes.

The LakeLorian, in partnership with the National Museum of The Great Lakes, hosts lectures, discussions and answers questions throughout the journey. With equal parts knowledge and passion for the Great Lakes, LakeLorians provide exclusive programming in collaboration with the renowned National Museum of the Great Lakes in Toledo, Ohio.

Each Victory Cruise Lines voyage includes 1-night pre-cruise hotel stay with complimentary ground transfers between the hotel and ship and from the ship to the airport; all water view accommodations, some with veranda; an included shore excursion in every port from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland to the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation in Detroit; acclaimed cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner served in multiple venues plus culinary events throughout each cruise; gourmet selections including freshly prepared lobster and regionally-inspired dishes; unlimited beverages including an extensive wine list, choice spirits, local craft beers and specialty coffees; open bars and lounges throughout the vessel; unlimited Wi-Fi; live, daily onboard entertainment and enrichment with our own LakeLorians; hiking sticks.

Photo below: Claudette Waggoner, Emily Coleman and John Waggoner

Star Voyager to reposition in Hong Kong

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 26 April 2025 26 April 2025

StarCruises has announced the debut of the Star Voyager cruise ship in Hong Kong, operating from 27 June to 31 August 2025. This development marks the return of the revitalized StarCruises brand to one of its most iconic homeports, which started cruises in Hong Kong more than 30 years ago.

The arrival of Star Voyager is poised to significantly boost cruise tourism in Hong Kong and across the region, offering travellers a fresh wave of voyage options while reaffirming StarCruises’ long-standing commitment to Asia’s dynamic cruise market.

During it homeport season in Hong Kong, Star Voyager will offer a series of immersive itineraries, including 2, 3, and 5 night cruises to sought-after destinations such as Taipei (Keelung), Kaohsiung and Penghu in Taiwan, as well as to Naha and Ishigaki in Okinawa, Japan. Among the highlights is the return of the popular 2 Night Weekend High Seas Cruise, departing every Friday.

“We are proud to return to Hong Kong, a city that holds a special place in StarCruises’ history and heritage. This homecoming is deeply meaningful, as it reconnects us with our roots and long-standing legacy in the region. We’re thrilled to introduce Star Voyager as a symbol of our renewed vision – offering exceptional regional cruises experiences for the domestic market and the growing Fly and Rail cruise segment,” said Michael Goh, President for StarDream Cruises.

HX Expeditions announces major expansion of Americas team amid growth and global investment

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 25 April 2025 25 April 2025

HX Expeditions, the world’s largest and first expedition cruise company, has announced a major expansion of its Americas team across business development, marketing, and tour operations. The move underscores the company’s strengthened focus on travel trade partnerships and advisor support in one of its fastest growing markets and reflects a broader transformation ahead of HX’s 130th anniversary in 2026.

Backed by new investment and a sharpened growth strategy, the company has entered a new era – one focused on trade partnerships, global expansion, and a revitalized brand identity. HX is investing across every part of the business, from fleet upgrades and onboard innovation to market development. “Alongside these global investments, we’re also investing in the people who will help us deliver on our most ambitious goals,” said Steve Smotrys, MD & SVP Commercial, Americas. “This expanded team brings the energy and expertise needed to strengthen our trade relationships and accelerate growth across the region.”

HX’s presence in the Americas has grown rapidly, with total U.S. booked revenue up 115% between 2022 and 2024. As demand grows, HX is expanding its commercial footprint and advisor support to unlock even greater market share. “As we prepare to celebrate 130 years of exploration, we’re building a modern brand with deep roots,” said Matt DeWitte, Head of Marketing, Americas. “This next phase is about scaling smart – creating more value for our partners and ensuring our brand connects in meaningful, inspiring ways across the Americas.”

Expanding sales and trade support across the Americas

Under the leadership of Steve Smotrys and Carla Brake, Senior Director of Sales, Americas, HX is strengthening its advisor-first approach across key regions. “Our Business Development Managers play a pivotal role in delivering the support and partnership that travel advisors need to succeed,” said Smotrys. “With this expanded team on the ground, we’re ensuring our trade partners have the tools they need to grow alongside us.”

Ana Duarte, Senior Business Development Manager, LATAM & Tour Operators
With over 20 years of experience in the cruise industry, Ana has built a global career working across multiple countries and developing a keen ability to identify emerging trends and opportunities that drive growth and innovation. At Princess Cruises, she played a key role in deployment and itinerary planning, new market entry, and international marketing strategy. Ana now joins HX as Senior Sales Manager, where she is leading efforts to grow the brand across Latin America, strengthen partnerships with tour operators, and develop charter programs to expand HX’s presence throughout the Americas.

John Milbrath, Business Development Manager, Northwest U.S.
With more than 30 years in the tourism industry, John has held leadership roles in cruise shore operations, AAA Washington, and most recently, business development at Seabourn. He brings a deep understanding of the cruise and travel landscape and will focus on expanding HX’s reach throughout the Northwest region.

Linda Cavanah, Business Development Manager, Central U.S.
Linda brings more than 20 years of cruise industry experience, including shipboard roles as Shore Excursion Manager and Event Manager with Celebrity Cruises and Holland America Line. She later served as Director of Land Operations at UnCruise Adventures, where she oversaw shore programs and logistics. Linda joined HX in 2023 as Senior Product Manager, Expedition Product and Planning, specializing in itinerary deployment and strategic forecasting. In her new role, she supports commercial leadership in shaping sales strategy, building industry partnerships, and driving growth across the Central U.S.

Barrett Caldwell, Business Development Manager, Midwest & Mid-Atlantic U.S.
Barrett brings seven years of experience in luxury travel sales, spanning global safaris, major sporting events, and destination marketing. He will lead travel industry growth across the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions. Known for his strong industry relationships and advisor-first approach, Barrett is focused on helping partners craft unforgettable experiences—from Antarctica to the Galápagos.

Aidan Flood, Business Development Manager, Northeast U.S.
Aidan comes to HX with a strong background in account management across multiple industries. Known for his client-first mindset and dedication to service, he will lead growth efforts in the Northeast U.S., connecting partners and travelers with the transformative world of expedition cruising.

A strategic marketing expansion for the Americas

HX is also expanding its marketing function in the Americas, bringing on new roles to drive a more focused and effective commercial strategy. “This is the most focused and deliberate marketing team we’ve ever had,” said Matt DeWitte. “We’re building new capabilities in trade marketing and digital strategy – laying the foundation to better support our partners, grow brand visibility, and engage new audiences.”

Destiny Weiss, Senior Marketing Manager, Americas
Destiny is a performance marketing expert with over eight years of experience driving brand growth across industries. At HX, she leverages her data-driven approach and strategic insight to create impactful marketing solutions that deepen engagement and support business objectives across the Americas with our current partners while seeking new commercial relationships.

Jenna Amaral, Senior Marketing Manager, Americas
Jenna brings extensive experience in digital marketing, having led strategy for brands including Hilton, The Container Store, and Hornblower Group. With a focus on SEM, paid social, and video marketing, she will play a key role in expanding HX’s market presence and optimizing digital campaigns to engage new audiences and drive revenue.

Cristina Macedo, B2B Trade Marketing Manager, Americas
Cristina is a marketing professional with more than six years of experience in brand management, B2B sales enablement, and cross-functional leadership. She has a proven track record of driving revenue growth through strategic marketing and stakeholder collaboration. At HX, Cristina supports the marketing team with content development, performance analysis, and brand consistency across global platforms.

Meyer Turku shipyard appoints board members

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 24 April 2025 24 April 2025

Earlier this spring Meyer Turku announced the appointment of Jaakko Eskola as Executive Chair of the Board and Tim Meyer's transition from the position of CEO to Vice Chair of the Board at the beginning of May. Additionally, three experienced members with diverse backgrounds have been nominated.

Kaori Uehigashi (officially starting from 02.05.2025)
M.Sc. (Tech), Industrial Engineering and Management

Serves currently as Executive Vice President, Strategy & Transformation at KONE (since 2024). Before served as Managing Director & Senior Partner of Boston Consulting Group (2007 – 2024) and Project Manager at KONE (2002 – 2007).

Martti Ala-Härkönen
Dr.Sc. (Econ.), Organisation and Management, Lic.Sc.(Tech.), Business Strategy and International Business

Serves as CFO of Tietoevry Tech Services (01.06.2025 onw.). Before served as EVP, CFO, Strategy & IT for Neste (2022 – 2024) and as EVP, CFO at Caverion (2016 – 2021), CFO at Cramo (2006 – 2016) and different roles at Novo Group/WM-data (1998 – 2006) and Postipankki (1995 – 1998).

Pekka Timonen
Doctor of Law (LL.D.)

Serves as Professor of Practice at the University of Eastern Finland. Previously served the Finnish Government as Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Justice (2018 – 2025) and Director in the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment. Before served as Director General of the Ownership Steering Department at the Prime Minister’s Office (2007 – 2012).

"We are happy to announce the new members of the board. With this composition, we are in a strong position to support the company's management in its work to lead the world's leading shipbuilding industry towards an increasingly sustainable future," comments Jaakko Eskola, Executive Chair of the Board of Meyer Turku.