By
Alex Smith |
United Waterways’s ocean division, Ocean Advice, has signed a deal to provide a new expedition vessel for Poseidon Expeditions, taking its white label shipbuilding programme to five of the eight newbuild slots now signed, ordered or in final contractual negotiation.
The new Poseidon Expeditions vessel is scheduled for delivery in September 2028. Ocean Advice has also placed two further orders at China Merchants Cruise Shipbuilding, covering one coastal cruise ship and one expedition ship, both scheduled for delivery in 2029. A further two vessels are currently in the final stage of contractual negotiation.
The ocean programme extends United Waterways’ white label management model, previously used on rivers, into the ocean sector. It gives operators and brands access to purpose-built expedition and coastal cruise vessels, backed by technical, nautical and hospitality management support. The full programme comprises four expedition ships and four coastal cruise ships.
“We are very pleased to see this journey developing so successfully,” said Mathias Kracht, managing director of Ocean Advice. “What began as a strategic vision is now becoming a tangible fleet with strong partners and significant market interest. The fact that five of the eight slots are already under way clearly demonstrates the demand for our innovative ships and confirms that our clients see substantial value in our small-ship ocean concept.”
“The speed at which these slots have been secured validates our belief that the market is looking for modern, efficient and sustainable ship solutions,” said Sascha Gill, CEO of United Waterways. “Our white label ocean platform allows partners to focus on their brand and guests while benefiting from the operational expertise of United Waterways and Ocean Advice. We are excited to move from concept to execution together with our clients.”