The total number of US-registered ships on the drawing boards has grown to 11 now that Signet Cruise Lines has announced plans to introduce two new ships. The 850-passenger vessels are scheduled for delivery during the third and fourth quarters of 1988.

Designed by Wartsila Shipyard, the ships’ hulls and superstructures will be built in the United States, to qualify them for coastal service, and the interiors and finishing touches will be completed in Europe. Three American shipyards are currently being considered, and a decision is expected in June.

The new vessels will offer US coastal service, and call at ports in the Caribbean and Mexico.

According to Signet President J. Barry Snyder, passengers will be able to bring along their cars – an option no other US-registered cruise vessel in the Caribbean or Atlantic offers.

News Briefs…

Sundance Cruises added a series of 14-day Panama Canal and Caribbean sailings for Stardancer, expanding out of the Mexican Riviera and Alaska for the first time, TravelAge West reports in its March 18th issue… The same issue notes that American Hawaii Cruises Chief Executive Officer H. William Jesse, Jr. said the company is “somewhere between serious consideration and discussion” in purchasing another ship, which he would not name… Sea Goddess II is reported to be on schedule for delivery April 17, and will sail her maiden voyage May 4 from Malaga, Spain to Monaco. She already is nearly sold out for her inaugural Mediterranean season… In its April 1st issue, Fortune presents a portfolio picture section featuring Sea Goddess, Fairsky, Royal Princess, Norway and the new Phoenix… Premier Cruise Lines is the 26th cruise line to join Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). Formed in 1973, CLIA now has 74 ships among its member lines.