VESSEL REVIEW | Ocean Albatros – SunStone Ships takes delivery of sixth Infinity-class newbuild

China Merchants Heavy Industry Haimen has handed over Ocean Albatros, the sixth Infinity-class expedition ship to be built for US-based cruise company SunStone Ships.

Ocean Albatros will be operated by Copenhagen-based Albatros Expeditions on Arctic and Antarctic voyages. It will serve itineraries that will also cover polar destinations alongside earlier sister vessel Ocean Victory, which was delivered in November 2021.

The Bureau Veritas-classed newbuild has a length of 342 feet (104.4 metres), a beam of 60 feet (18.4 metres), a draught of 16.7 feet (5.1 metres), and a maximum guest capacity of 200 as well as space for 100 crewmembers. Guest cabins include 94 staterooms and suites, all with lifejacket storage and unobstructed sea views and most with their own balconies.

Onboard amenities include two restaurants, a wellness area, a bar, an open deck dining facility, a modern lecture lounge, observation areas, a library, a sun deck with pool, two heated whirlpools, a mudroom, and a hangar for storing, launching, and recovering inflatable expedition boats at destinations. As with other ships in the Albatros Expeditions fleet, there is also an onboard medical facility equipped for handling minor emergencies.

The ship's hull is built to Ice Class 1A and Polar Code 6 notations, giving it the sturdy construction needed for small-ship cruising. The inverted bow design meanwhile provides enhanced stability in rough weather and allows for the smoothest movements on high waves. The vessel is also SOLAS 2012-certified, ensuring safe return to port (SRTP) ability.

The propulsion arrangement consists of four diesel engines and two electric motors. All are controlled electronically to optimise fuel consumption under a broad range of speed settings. The propulsion also delivers a speed of 15 knots.

Deck space is also available for lifeboats and a fast rescue boat for use during emergencies.

Ocean Albatros has already commenced operational sailings under the flag of the Bahamas. It is scheduled to visit the Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia, and the Falkland Islands on a number of itineraries through early 2024.

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