Scottish Firm Reveals New Designs For Residential Cruise Ship With 2028 Launch Planned

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The Scottish firm Clydebuilt has revealed an overhauled design of its planned residential cruise ship Dark Island, just three years before the luxury ship could set sail on her maiden voyage.

Dark Island residential cruise ship

The ship was first announced in 2019 with further details revealed two years later, but only recently the firm has released brand new artwork of the sleek look for the ship, which is due to offer 236 suites, all of which with a sea view.

The ship will be named Dark Island in honour of the Outer Hebrides in Scotland, with the ship’s designers aiming to bring the “essence of the Highland glens” into the décor of the ship.

Guests will be able to purchase a suite onboard to use freely, and can also then rent out their suite to others – but only for long term rentals of six months or more.

They can allow family and friends to use the suite for short-term stays.

The full details of the ship’s original itinerary are still to be confirmed, but it is planned that the maiden voyage will be a world cruise lasting 800 days.

Once this is completed, residents will be allowed to vote on the next world tour itinerary, with the captain having final approval.

Residents will be able to enjoy free WiFi and laundry services onboard, along with all dining. A selection of drinks will be included daily too.

Residents will also have a butler who can make sure that all guest needs are taken care of, to provide that luxury hotel experience that Clydebuilt is aiming for.

As well as the updated designs, the ship’s deck plans are now available to view on the Clydebuilt website.

The ship is planned to feature a state of the art fitness and wellbeing centre, multiple restaurants, a pool, live entertainment and more.

It will also have its own helicopter to allow select guests to enjoy unique excursions that normally wouldn’t be practical to reach from port via road or rail.

Pricing information isn’t public but the sales team is now accepting enquiries for guests who wish to buy a suite onboard, with the option to request a bespoke interior if you’re feeling particularly flush.

Other residential cruise ships

Dark Island is the latest in a growing trend of residential cruise ships, offering a permanent home at sea for those seeking a life of adventure and luxury.

While this concept was once considered niche, several high-profile vessels now provide similar opportunities for those looking to invest in a floating residence.

One of the most well-known residential ships is The World, which has been sailing since 2002.

It offers 165 privately owned residences and follows a continuously changing itinerary based on the preferences of its residents.

Unlike traditional cruises, The World functions more like a private yacht, where residents can vote on upcoming destinations and stay in ports for extended periods.

The ship boasts a golf simulator, multiple gourmet restaurants, and even a dedicated culinary arts centre.

Meanwhile, the MV Narrative, currently in development by Storylines, aims to bring a more community-driven approach to residential cruising.

The ship will feature a sustainable design with a solar-powered farm, hydroponic gardens, and wellness programs focusing on long-term health and wellbeing.

The most recent residential ship to launch was the Villa Vie Odyssey, although it underwent significant delays before finally setting sail.

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