By
Rebecca Gibson |
Saga Cruises is to name its first-ever new cruise ship Spirit of Discovery when she debuts in summer 2019.
To be built by Meyer Werft at its yard in Papenburg, Germany, the new Spirit of Discovery will accommodate fewer than 1,000 passengers and will have more than 100 cabins for solo travellers – 20% of the ship’s total capacity.
“We have great pleasure in announcing our new ship will be named Spirit of Discovery,” said Robin Shaw, chief executive of Saga Cruises. In September 2015, we announced that we were to build our first cruise ship – we’re still on a high from that news. With the design nearing completion, today’s announcement is the next step on this exciting journey. The name Spirit of Discovery evokes the adventurous nature and new experiences that cruise customers desire.”
Saga Cruises’ new ship is to feature all-balcony cabins, speciality restaurants, bars, indoor and outdoor pools, a spa, a library, an observation lounge and a signature Britannia Lounge when she debuts in summer 2019.
The newbuild will carry fewer than 1,000 passengers in 540 all-balcony cabins, around 20% of which will be for solo travellers.
“Key to the whole design process has been our customer insight,” said Shaw. “We know they want to experience new things in a luxurious, small ship environment. Our new ship’s itineraries will take customers to fresh, new destinations and will include more overnight stays in key ports.”
Saga Cruises will celebrate its 20th anniversary this year and this will be the first time that the line has built its own cruise ship. Previously, the line has operated pre-owned ships and refitted them to meet the needs of its customers. Its current fleet includes Saga Sapphire and Saga Pearl II.