By Our Correspondent
Sunstone ships, a subsidiary of the US-based SunStone Maritime Group took delivery of two “infinity class” expedition cruise vessels in October 2022, according to FleetMon.
It stated: “The vessels named the Sylvia Earle and the Ocean Odyssey were built and delivered by the Chinese shipbuilder, China Merchant Heavy Industries.
“All vessels in the infinity class are eco-friendly, having Tier III engines and SCR catalysts to reduce emissions. They are also equipped with LED lighting and run on Low Sulfur Marine Gas Oil. The wastewater is also treated before being discharged.
“Each vessel has a length of 104m, a width of 18m, and a draft of 5.1m. These vessels can accommodate 130 – 200 passengers and 85 -115 crew members. These ships have features such as restaurants, lounges, and observation decks and have amenities such as a spa, a gym, a swimming pool, and hot tubs.
“These ships also feature the easily distinguishable X-Bow design by Ulstein Design and Solutions. This design made its debut in the shipping industry over 15 years ago. Ulstein states that the unique design of the bow creates a wave-piercing effect when facing small waves while providing a reduction in pitching and bow impact loads in bigger seas.
“Both the vessels will operate under long-term charters as is the usual MO of SunStone. The Sylvia Earle will be operating under Aurora Expeditions and the Ocean Odyssey will be operating under Vantage Deluxe World Travel.”
