Another new player has entered the expedition cruise world as Sweden’s Bassoe Technology is now moving into expedition cruise ships having made its name in the offshore sector.

The marine engineering outfit has come together with Yantai CIMC Raffles Shipyard to offer a designed-in-Scandinavia, built-in-China 240-passenger turn-key expedition vessel.

The concept – code-named Vega – was an initiative by CIMC Raffles, according to a sales presentation, while utilizing Scandinavian marine and offshore engineering subsidiary Bassoe Technology to create the design.

“During the development, special attention has been paid to safety, fuel efficiency, low noise and low vibrations as well as minimizing emissions,” the company said.

The ship has been designed to Polar Code 7 requirements, and is 147 meters in length, according to the company, with accommodations for up to 240 passengers.

Optional features include a helicopter hanger and landing pad, as well as submarine operation options.

Among the design highlights is a top-deck observation lounge.