United Waterways and its ocean division Ocean Advice have announced the signing of a deal for a new expedition ship for Poseidon Expeditions.
The ship will be delivered from China Merchants in September 2028.
Following the signing of the first expedition vessel for Poseidon Expeditions, the United Waterways’ newbuild program has now progressed to five vessels that are signed, ordered or in final contractual negotiation.
In addition, Ocean Advice has placed orders for two more vessels at China Merchants: one coastal cruise ship and one expedition ship. Both vessels are expected to be delivered during 2029.
A further two ships are currently in the final contractual stage. As a result, five of the eight slots secured under the original framework agreement are now actively progressing toward construction.
The company said its ocean program was launched to extend United Waterways’ white-label management model from rivers to the ocean sector, providing operators and brands with access to purpose-built expedition and coastal cruise vessels supported by comprehensive technical, nautical and hospitality management services.
The program includes four expedition ships and four coastal cruise ships
“We are very pleased to see this journey developing so successfully. What began as a strategic vision is now becoming a tangible fleet with strong partners and significant market interest. The fact that five of the eight slots are already under way clearly demonstrates the demand for our innovative ships and confirms that our clients see substantial value in our small-ship ocean concept,” said Mathias Kracht, Managing Director of Ocean Advice.
“The speed at which these slots have been secured validates our belief that the market is looking for modern, efficient and sustainable ship solutions. Our white label ocean platform allows partners to focus on their brand and guests while benefiting from the operational expertise of United Waterways. and Ocean Advice. We are excited to move from concept to execution together with our clients,” added Dr. Sascha Gill, CEO of United Waterways.
