After acquiring the ship in late 2024, Berlin Capital Group plans to operate the former FTI Berlin in Southeast Asia.

Originally built for Peter Deilmann in the 1980s, the 9,750-ton ship is currently undergoing refurbishment in China.

Last operated by FTI Cruises, the vessel spent over four years laid up in Greece before setting sail to Asia last December.

Upon arriving in Ningde in January, the ship entered drydock in a local shipyard to undergo a refit that included upgrades of public areas and staterooms, as well as a complete repaint of its hull and superstructure.

Renamed Berlin Oceanus, the vessel is now expected to operate short casino cruises out of the port of Penang, Malaysia.

While details about the operation are still to be announced, the first guests are expected to embark in March 2025.

In its social media profiles, the Berlin Capital Group promises to create an “offshore entertainment city,” which will offer dining, entertainment and services.

The revamped Berlin will be able to accommodate 600 guests, the company added, with featuring including a karaoke lounge, spa, a convenience store and massage rooms.

Guests will also be able to celebrate parties and milestones onboard.

After nearly ten years serving the German market, the former FTI Berlin was sold by FTI Cruises in late 2020.

As the company decided to shut down its cruise operations, the ship was acquired by Dreamliner Cruises, which planned to operate it as a private yacht.

The plans, however, did not go ahead, and the ship remained laid up at a shipyard in Greece for over four years.

During its four-decade sailing career, the former Berlin also sailed for Saga Cruises and Spirit of Discovery Cruises, as well as other Russian and Asian operators.