Newly formed Ocean Quest International has announced that it will be operating the Ocean Spirit on seven-day cruises year-round from the Port of New Orleans.

The ship is the former Sunward I which has been acquired for $35 million and will be renovated at a cost of $5 million. Two yards in Italy and one in Singapore is on the short list. V Ships will be responsible for marine operations and will supply officers and crew. Ocean Quest is currently considering bids from casino concessioners and catering companies.

President is Emanuel Georges; Al Convenuto is Vice President of Sales and Marketing and the founder of the company; Jay Robert Jumonville is Vice President of Marine Operations; Bernadette Cornacchia is Vice President of Marketing. The line already works with Adnet advertising in New Orleans.

With the FMC application pending, start up is scheduled for mid-January. Cruises will feature scuba diving, snorkeling and water sports for a middle-aged clientele. Ports of call will include Cancun, Belize and Cozumel.