Oceanwide Expeditions has signed a letter of intent to build two expedition vessels using hybrid sail propulsion, with delivery scheduled for 2029 and 2030.
Each vessel will carry 146 passengers and is designed to reduce fuel consumption and emissions through a combination of sail and conventional propulsion systems. The ships are based on the company’s existing Hondius-class design, with planned upgrades to operational efficiency and onboard facilities.
The first vessel is expected to enter service in 2029, followed by a second in 2030. Commercial planning for both ships is scheduled to begin in 2027.
Oceanwide said the project forms part of its broader fleet development strategy, which includes investments in vessel upgrades and alignment with environmental guidelines set by the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) and the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO).
The company’s current fleet includes the m/v Hondius, introduced in 2019 as a Polar Class 6 expedition vessel designed for operations in polar regions.
Chief executive Rémi Bouysset said the new ships would support the company’s focus on small-scale expedition cruising while incorporating lower-emission technologies.
Oceanwide Expeditions specialises in polar itineraries in the Arctic and Antarctica, operating small vessels designed for expedition-style travel and remote landings.
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