cruise ship ocean diamond

Ocean Diamond

Please note that Ocean Diamond is not actively sailing any cruises listed with Adventuresmith Explorations.  Contact us  for current information on this ship and comparable options, or browse all of our small  Antarctica ships  to filter by ship size.

Sail aboard the Ocean Diamond, a modern, stable super-yacht and experience one of the most eco-friendly ships in Antarctica. Carrying a maximum of 189 passengers, this outstanding small ship features numerous adventure options plus onboard amenities such as a massage and wellness program.

Ocean Diamond Review

AdventureSmith Explorations’ Ocean Diamond review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our experts have been aboard nearly every small expedition ship in Antarctica. Please read our Ocean Diamond review below then contact our polar cruise experts to compare the Ocean Diamond with other other Antarctica ships and ice-class expedition ships offering Antarctica cruises .

Choose the Ocean Diamond if you want to experience Antarctica on a high-tech vessel with the least impact on the environment. With a cruising speed of 15.5 knots, the Ocean Diamond saves up to 12 hours on the Drake crossing, giving you more time to enjoy Antarctica.

Sustainability Aboard Ocean Diamond

All guests aboard Ocean Diamond travel knowing their carbon emissions are offset. Ocean Diamond was the first vessel in polar travel history to offer carbon neutral voyages. Travelers to Antarctica, one of the world’s most remote and remarkable destinations for once-in-a-lifetime vacations, are guaranteed to have a “green” experience at no added cost to any passenger. Quark offsets an estimated 5,682 tons of carbon dioxide equivalents (CO2) with select hydro-power, wind-power and reforestation CarbonNeutral projects in Turkey, Kenya, India and China, one of which is a gold standard project.

Ocean Diamond’s guests also automatically support the work of the Scott Polar Research Institute. Founded in 1920 in Cambridge, United Kingdom, the Scott Polar Research Institute is the oldest international center for polar research within a university, linking the history of polar exploration with modern research. For every traveler aboard Ocean Diamond, a financial contribution is made and travelers are enrolled in the Friends of Scott Polar Research Institute association.

Common Areas & Dining Aboard Ocean Diamond

Highlights of the Ocean Diamond include a bar staffed by a professional bartender, theater-style auditorium, clinic with licensed doctor, photography program including the services of a resident photography instructor, Polar Library containing a large collection of polar books and DVDs, Massage and Wellness program offering yoga classes, aromatherapy treatments and massage therapy. A passenger elevator makes navigating decks easy and chefs pamper guests three times daily with delicious meals.

Activities Aboard Ocean Diamond

Zodiac cruising and hiking are included on every departure. Optional camping, kayaking and one-time paddling excursions are also available aboard the Ocean Diamond. Each expedition is staffed with expert captains, officers, expedition leaders and guides who help passengers get the most out of every activity.

Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard Ocean Diamond

All cabins and suites have exterior views, private bathrooms with a shower, wardrobes and drawers, flat-screen TVs, DVD player, individual temperature controls, in-room safe, satellite telephone access and hair dryer.

Approximately 183 square feet, these cabins have two twin beds and an upper bed (cabin 332 has three lower beds), two portholes and a private bathroom. These six cabins are located on the Lower Deck.

Approximately 200 square feet, these cabins have one double bed or two twin beds, a picture window (obstructed view) and a private bathroom. Eight cabins are located on the Captain’s Deck and 10 cabins are on the Upper Deck.

Approximately 183-200 square feet, these cabins have one double bed or two twin beds, a picture window and a private bathroom. Twelve cabins are located on the Captain’s Deck, nine are on the Upper Deck and 17 are on the Main Deck.

Approximately 400 square feet, these cabins have one double bed or two twin beds, two picture windows, a private bathroom, and a separate sitting area with sofas, two easy chairs and a small table. These 10 cabins are located on the Main Deck.

Approximately 237 square feet, these cabins have one double bed or two twin beds, a private bathroom and a full-size window with a sliding glass door that leads to a private deck with chairs. These 10 cabins are located on the Observation Deck.

Approximately 200 square feet, these cabins have one double bed, a picture window (obstructed view due to lifeboats) and a private bathroom. These four cabins are located on the Captain’s Deck.

Approximately 183 square feet, these cabins have one double bed, two portholes and a private bathroom. These 15 cabins are located on the Lower Deck.

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Learn More About Ocean Diamond & Her Sister Ships

What’s it like to sail aboard the Ocean Diamond in Antarctica? Which itinerary to choose? Our experts can help you compare the Ocean Diamond with her sister ships, or other comparable Antarctica vessels. Her sister ships will all have similar amenities, cabin categories, meals and other services hallmark of this polar operator. Contact us to compare them all. Our experts are standing by with unbiased advice, personalized to you.

Contact Us - Ocean Diamond

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Ocean Diamond

OCEAN DIAMOND

The Ocean Diamond is a modern, stable super-yacht, and one of the largest of our small expedition ships. Carrying a maximum of 189 passengers, and with two stabilizers and an ice-strengthened hull, this outstanding vessel is ideal for polar expeditions. As one of the fastest, and most eco-friendly ships in Antarctica, it is also one of the most comfortable. There are 101 elegantly designed cabins and suites, all with exterior views, and expansive common spaces, a club lounge, and a spacious restaurant. The ship offers numerous adventure options, plus on-board features such as interactions with photography instructors. After a full day of exploration, passengers can relax, browse books or DVDs in the well-stocked polar library, or enjoy stunning polar scenery from the sun-lit, panoramic observation lounge.

Features & Facilities

• Elegantly appointed
• Eco-friendly ship
• Lounge/ Dining Room
• Theatre-style auditorium
• Massage therapy
• Internet/Wifi

Technical Specs

This Ship's voyages

• TRAVEL AGENTS
• TESTIMONIALS

Expedition Cruises

• Fridtjof-Nansen
• Roald Amundsen
• Polar Pioneer

Ocean Diamond

• Ocean Adventurer
• Ocean Endeavour
• G-Expedition

Expedition+Luxury Cruises

• Greg Mortimer
• Sylvia Earle
• Ocean Albatros
• Ocean Victory
• NatGeo Explorer
• Heritage Adventurer
• Magellan Explorer
• Ultramarine​
• World Explorer
• Ocean Explorer

Luxury C ruises

• Silver Cloud
• Silver Wind
• Le Commandant Charcot
• World Traveller
• Silver Endeavour
• Seabourn Venture
• Seabourn Pursuit
• Scenic Eclipse
• Viking Octantis
• Viking Polaris
• World Navigator

Antarctica – South Georgia & Falklands

• Antarctic Peninsula
• South Georgia
• Falkland Islands
• East Antarctica | Ross Sea
• New Zealand Sub Antarctic Islands

Pre & Post Cruise Extensions

• Galapagos Islands & Ecuador
• Easter Island
• City Stopover & Iguazu Falls
• Machu Picchu & Peru
• ANTARCTICA GUIDE
• AUS 1300 787 987

Have a Captain Cook...

One of the fastest ships in Antarctica, the ice-designed Ocean Diamond is known for its high standards of comfort and service. Spacious and stylish common areas, suites, and cabins with ocean views give it a yacht-like feel that transports guests into a world of elegance, all the while discovering some of Antarctica’s most representative sites. Let yourself be carried away by the team and crew’s expertise and enjoy an all-around unforgettable polar experience. 

All itineraries provide guests with countless opportunities to observe wildlife up close, in the stunning landscapes that only the Antarctic region can offer. Start your journey in Ushuaia – the city at the end of the world – and sail south, across Drake Passage, to visit the South Shetland Islands and the breathtaking Antarctic peninsula, all the way down to the Antarctic Circle. Other itineraries make for the Falkland Islands or South Georgia as the ship sails to the White Continent. 

Photo Gallery

Staterooms & Common Areas on the

The elegant and comfortable 101 suites and cabins aboard the Ocean Diamond showcase modern furnishings and standard amenities that allow for perfect rest and relaxation before and after the day’s explorations. Direct view to the beautiful landscapes, a mini fridge, TV, bathrobes,and spacious bathrooms, are some of the services offered in all cabins. 

A 360 ° view from the ship’s open Sun Deck offers guests a unique opportunity to master their photography skills with the team’s on-board photography instructors. Panoramic windows at the Observation Lounge also allow guests to remain connected to the magical scenery from the comfort of a cosy seat. Head to the Library and choose a book from its polar exploration guides and novels or workout in the gym. All spaces allow for moments of ease and inspiration.

Single Porthole - Lower Deck

Triple Cabin - Lower Deck

Twin Window - Main Deck

Suite - Main deck

Twin Obstructed View - Upper Deck

Twin Window - Upper Deck

Twin Obstructed View - Captain's Deck

Twin Window - Captain's Deck

Single Obstructed View - Captain's Deck

Balcony Suite - Observation Deck

Ship Features

Technical specifications:.

• Capacity: 189
• Contruction Year: 1974
• Width: 16 Mts / 52 Ft
• Depth: 4.9 Mts
• Max speed: 15.5 knots
• Electricity: 220V

Facilities:

• Dining room:
• Mini library:
• Reception Area:
• Entertainment Options:
• Medical attention 24 hours a day:
• Restaurant:
• 24 hours / Coffee station:
• Living room:

Dining, Entertainment & Onboard Experience

Enjoy all on-board meals at the ship’s main Dining Room. A fine-dining experience will surprise and satisfy guests throughout the day with freshly-prepared dishes and varied menus. Find an assortment of snacks and hot beverages at the lounge during cocktail hour. 

Explorations, zodiac outings, and activities designed to make the most of your time in this incredible destination are the primary focus while sailing onboard the Ocean Diamond . Learning continues in the Auditorium – located in the Main Lounge – where guests can attend entertaining lectures and watch movies. Other diverting activities such as special events are also offered at the Main Lounge. Delight in a delicious cocktail from the ship’s well-stocked bar and head to The Club, a sophisticated lounge where guests can take the opportunity to meet fellow travellers. 

Layers and warm clothes are encouraged during the day for outings and exploration activities. The same comfortable style is also used onboard. During the evening and for special nights, guests keep it smart casual.

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Infinity Class

Boundless Class

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Available for Sale or Charter

Contract Pending

M/V Ocean Diamond

Vessel is currently committed under a sale contract, closing pending. Further updates in March, 2024

A part of the Boundless class

Designed by SunStone with naval architecture completed by Danish naval architects OSK, the Boundless Class features a distinct inverted bow, best in class energy consumption and environmental commitments.

Vessel Description

Passenger cabins:

Passenger beds:

Public rooms and facilities

Standard facilities:

Restaurant (188 seats, 260 sq. m.) Presentation Lounge (250 seats, 320 sq. m) Mud Room Library (70 sq. m.) Gift shop (45 sq. m.) Gym (30 sq. m.) Salon/Treatment (12 sq. m.) Medical Center (60 sq. m.)

Unique features:

Speciality Restaurant (38 seats, 70 sq. m.) Observation Lounge (34 seats, 120 sq. m.) Pool Deck (102 seats, 270 sq. m.) Kayaks Zodiacs

General arrangement:

Download the Ocean Diamond Documents

Technical specifications

General Information:

Ship name: Ocean Diamond Former names: Le Diamant, Song of Flower, Explorer Starship, Begonia Ship Type: Passenger ship Technical manager: Anglo-Eastern Cruise Management, Inc. Call sign: C6ZR5 IMO number: 7325629 Flag: Madeira, Portugal Year built: Keel: 04–1972, delivery: 02-14-1974 Yard built: Kristiansands Mekaniske Verksted as – Norway, hull No. 220 Classification : Bureau Veritas : ICE Class 1D Solas: Built to SOLAS 1974 Compartments: 1

Main dimensions:

Length overall: 124.19 m Breadth moulded: 16.0 m Draft: 4.85 m Gross Tonnage : 8,282 ITC Net Tonnage : 2,676

Life saving equipment:

Total capacity: 386 persons Lifeboats: 2 Rescue boats: 2 Life rafts: 8 x 25 persons EA.

Speed & consumption:

Maneuvering speed: 6 knots @ 0.15 MT / HR + 2.4 MT / day at sea aux fuel consumption Economical service speed: 10.5 knots @ 11.6 MT / day + 2.4 MT / day at sea aux fuel consumption Full speed: 14 knots @ 21.6 MT / day + 2.4 MT / day at sea aux fuel consumption In Port aux fuel consumption: 2 MT / day At sea aux fuel consumption: 2.4 MT / day Fuel type: Distillate fuel

Tank capacity:

Marine Gas Oil: 572.2 m3 Lube Oil: 44.8 m3 Fresh water: 451.2 m3 Technical water: 205 m3 Ballast water: 350 m3 Sewage holding tank: 178.0 m3 Garbage capacity: 70 m3 Fresh water production Ro: 100 m3 / day, Evaporator: 59 m3 / day

Technical information:

Main engines: 2 x Wichmann Wx28v10 2,751 kW EA. @ 600 rpm => total: 5502 kW Shaft generators: 2 x 1,600 kW EA. @ 600 rpm => total: 3200 kW Auxiliary engine: 1 x Wichmann Wx28v10 Auxiliary generator: 1,600 kW EA. @ 600 rpm => total: 1600 kW Emergency generator: 1 x Mercedes Benz OM 422, AEG 200 kVA @ 1,800 rpm voltage 440 / 230 / 115 V @ 60 Hz A.C. Propellers: 2 x CP propellers @ 270 rpm, 4 bladed Thrusters: 1 x 272 kW Rubinents FP thruster fwd Stabilizers: 2 x Denny Brown fin stabilizers (P/S) Air conditioning: Fully air conditioned Elevators Passenger: 2 Service: 1 Food: 1

Technical specifications:

For Sale/Charter

If you are interested in knowing more about purchase or charter possibilities, please contact us.

+45 53 57 00 03

[email protected].

Sunstone Maritime Group A/S

Boltonvej 7 DK-2300 Copenhagen S Finance/Administration: +45 53 80 16 93 Commercial: +45 53 57 00 03 email: [email protected]

Available positions

Management Team News

© 2022 SunStone - All rights reserved

Ocean Diamond to be Transformed Into Workforce Floatel

• April 4, 2024

According to Bridgeman Services Group, the former Ocean Diamond is being transformed into a floating hotel for workforce accommodation.

The vessel is reportedly being acquired by the Vancouver-based operator, which plans to rename it Diamond XI.

The 150-cabin cruise ship is currently undergoing a refit in Europe, Bridgeman Services Group said, and is expected to be ready for deployment as early as this summer.

With spacious cabins, a newly renovated dining room, a 200-seat auditorium, fitness facilities and offices with 45 workstations, the vessel can be used by workforces in the LNG, mining and renewable energy sectors, the operator added.

As part of its current refit, the ship is seeing a refresh to its common areas, the addition of workspaces and meeting rooms and the installation of a boat landing for crew and cargo transfers.

“The Diamond XI is a beautiful ship that perfectly suits resource and other projects requiring premium accommodation space for up to 350 beds, catering, entertainment and more,” said Brian Grange, president, Bridgeman.

“Bridgeman has looked to acquire a floatel sized to support projects in their earliest stages or to supplement accommodation at peak workforce due to strong interest from project proponents. The Diamond XI fulfills those needs and does so with comfort, practicality and safety,” he added.

Originally designed as a ro-ro carrier, the 1973-built vessel was converted into an expedition ship in the mid-1980s.

Previously owned by SunStone Ships, the 113-cabin vessel spent the last year out of service after being withdrawn from service in early 2023 .

Before entering the extended layup period, the Ocean Diamond completed a final winter program for Quark Expeditions in Antarctica.

Originally named Begonia, the ship also sailed for several other operators including Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Compagnie du Ponant, Iceland ProCruises and others.

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Iceland Circumnavigation 10 Day Cruise

Find the perfect trip.

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• phone UK: 01432 507 280
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£2480.5

* Current p/p indicative rate.

• Admire black-sand beaches, erupting volcanoes, lumbering glaciers and thunderous waterfalls while at the same time swimming in hot springs, betting on when geysers will erupt, and hiking across barren rocky deserts.
• Be introduced to many facets of the island, learn more about the country and its people, wildlife as varied as wild horses and whales, culture and cuisine, stories and legends.
• Most cities and towns are located along the coast and can easily be reached by boat. However, our numerous shore excursions give you the opportunity to explore the interior of Iceland as well.

Experience an unforgettable journey around the island of fire and ice. Iceland is a country of contrasts and the diverse natural landscape provides the possibility for unique experiences like nowhere else on earth. This cruise reveals both natural wonders and the Icelandic way of living. A range of exciting shore excursions brings the unique character of Iceland closer to you. This voyage reveals a diverse array of natural wonders and the Icelandic way of life, and we will also visit Grimsey, just north of the Polar Circle.

Make a complete circumnavigation of Iceland on the Ocean Diamond, the ideal vessel for this cruise being large enough to be very comfortable, but small enough to get into the smaller bays and harbours. Heading clockwise from Reykjavik, we'll cruise to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, which juts out from Iceland’s west coast, Siglufjördur, once the centre of the Icelandic herring industry, Akureyri and nearby Lake Myvatn, the stunning Seydisfjördur, Höfn and the Vatnajökull glacier and the Westman Islands. Please note: If you book return flights on your own please choose a connection that does not depart before noon from Keflavik airport on the same day the OCEAN DIAMOND arrives in Reykjavik.

There are no future departures for this trip at this stage.

Use your leisure time in Reykjavik to discover the unique charm of the world’s northernmost capital. The OCEAN DIAMOND docks in Old Reykjavik Harbor in the heart of the city, a five-minute stroll from the main squares, shopping and dining. The ship departs in the evening.

Stykkisholmur is the starting point of our adventures on the Snaefellnes Peninsula. Often called “Iceland in Miniature” because of its it diverse landscapes, the area is home to bird-rich Breidafjördur Bay and Snaefellsjökull glacier, which sits atop a 700,000-year-old dormant volcano that was featured in the Jules Verne novel Journey to the Center of the Earth.

Today‘s destination is Isafjördur, an idyllic town in the Westfjords region. This secluded peninsula is connected to the Icelandic mainland by only a narrow strip of land and includes many roadless areas where cars have never been. The landscape includes jaw-dropping views of dramatic fjords carved by ancient glaciers, sheer table mountains that plunge into the sea and pristine North Atlantic vegetation.

By morning we reach the fjord town of Siglufjordur, once the hub of the global herring industry and now enjoying a rebirth in popularity. Learn about the golden age of herring at the award-winning Herring Era Museum located on the vibrant harbor-front. In the early afternoon we head to Hrisey, the second largest island of Iceland. With only 153 inhabitants, the island is located in Eyjafjordur, about 22 miles (35 km) north of Akureyri.

In the morning we visit Flatey Island. Its a natural haven for birdlife and home to the arctic tern and puffins, which can be observed at close quarters. In the early afternoon we steam further into the Skjalfandi Bay and visit Husavik.

Husavik is often called the “Whale watching capital” of Iceland, the town’s offshore waters are home to 15 different whale species, as well as dolphins and 30 varieties of birds. Watching these graceful ocean giants in their Arctic habitat is an unforgettable experience.

Iceland’s East Fjords are best explored from the impossibly picturesque port of Seydisfjordur, nestled between the sea and steep mountains. Activities include seal spotting, horseback riding, and visiting the beautiful nature reserve Skalanes.

Today’s port of call is Djupivogur, fishing village in southeast Iceland, starting point for an optional excursion to the amazing glacier lagoon. Huge blocks of ice constantly break off the glacier, Breiðamerkurjökull, and large icebergs float on the lagoon. The lagoon is not very wide but it is up to 250 meters deep which makes it the deepest lake in Iceland.

Located off Iceland’s south coast, the Westman Islands were formed by submarine volcanic eruptions around 10,000 years ago. Surtsey Island emerged from the sea in 1963 and is one the youngest land masses on earth. We go ashore on Heimaey, the only inhabited island, where half-buried houses remain from a violent 1973 eruption. During the shore landing there is time for bird watching and you might even spot whales.

After breakfast we bid farewell to the OCEAN DIAMOND as we sail back into Reykjavik. Explore inland areas like the Golden Circle and its famous Gullfoss waterfall via our Air & Ground package or other post-cruise programs. Or simply hang out in Reykjavik, a perfect city for those who want to refresh their spirit in a place that combines invigorating outdoor activities, great food and world-class entertainment.

All routes and excursions are provisional and subject to change as weather, sea and ice conditions may affect the itinerary.

In the early morning hours we steam into Skjalfandi Bay and Húsavík. Often called the “Whale watching capital” of Iceland, the town’s offshore waters are home to 15 different whale species, as well as dolphins and 30 variety of bird. Watching these graceful ocean giants in their Arctic habitat is an unforgettable experience.

Ranging inland from Akureyri, we visit the fascinating Lake Myvatn region, where the schizophrenic landscape looks as if “heaven and hell” have clashed. One side of the lake features rugged volcanic remnants, while the other side is blessed with lush vegetation and varied bird life.

By morning we reach the fjord town of Siglufjördur, once the hub of the global herring industry and now enjoying a rebirth in popularity. Learn about the golden age of herring at the award-winning Herring Era Museum located on the vibrant harbor-front. In the early afternoon we head to uninhabited Grimsey Island. Located about 25 miles (40 km) off the mainland on the Artic Circle, the island harbors a variety of bird species including puffins, guillemots and gulls. Later we set sail for Akureyri, Iceland’s lovable second largest city.

Ocean Diamond

The 210 passenger vessel was completely refurbished in Norway in 2019 and is perfect for our exploration being large enough to provide stability, speed, spacious cabins and ample public space, yet small enough to manoeuvre in remote areas. The vessel is outfitted with the most current navigational and communications technology as well as with retractable stabilisers for smooth sailing. The vessel is ice strengthened and features 18 Zodiacs for our forays ashore.

Your Cabin/Suite With a maximum of 210 passengers, the Ocean Diamond offers cabins across its five decks. There a range of cabins and suites available and all feature outside views (porthole, window or balcony), full private en-suite bathrooms featuring bathtub and shower, a writing desk, individual temperature control, in-room safe, refrigerator, satellite phone access, hairdryer and flat-screen television and DVD player. Cabins range in size from 17 square metres to 30 square metres.

Your Space The Ocean Diamond features spacious public areas and ample deck space from where you can admire the beautiful passing landscapes. Public areas and facilities include an observation lounge with bar, a fitness centre, pool with bar, sun deck, lecture threatre with state of the art audio visual equipment, library and lounge. The restaurant serves all passengers in one, open seating and cuisine onboard is international. There is also a gift shop, clinic and a spa onboard.

Your Dining The single sitting restaurant is located on the Lower Deck and is both spacious and light. Breakfast and lunch are served buffet style and dinner is served to your table. All meals include a vegetarian option. Afternoon tea also served daily around the afternoon excursions and coffee, tea and water are available complimentary around the clock. Weather permitting, there will be the opportunity to dine outside on occasion.

Life Onboard The atmosphere onboard is focused on exploration and discovery with all the creature comforts you would expect from a vessel of this calibre. The onboard crew offer excellent service and in addition the expedition team will enrich your experience with their knowledge of the region. Through a lecture programme and shore expeditions, they will share their expertise and passion with you. After a day of exploration ashore, you will return to the comfort of a sophisticated ship with a friendly crew and informal atmosphere. A fleet of Zodiacs are used for landings and nature cruises, and during your voyage you will have the opportunity to visit the Captain and Officers on the Bridge to learn more about your journey, further fostering the expeditionary nature of our voyage.

Some Deck Plans may vary from what you see below.

The vessel complies with all MARPOL (Marine Pollution Act)regulations.   The vessel has a Garbage Management Plan to deal with garbage accumulated during a voyage.  As for human waste, the vessel is equipped with a Sewage Treatment system that processes the waste generated onboard.  The treated waste water is discharged at sea or shoreside.  If discharged at sea it is done according to strict International standards and Class required protocols that include distance from shore, depth of the water, speed of the vessel and rate of discharge.  

• accommodation in booked cabin category
• all meals included
• coffee, tea and water
• all Zodiac excursions
• Icelandic/English speaking guides
• all presentations from cruise staff and guest speakers
• on-board entertainment program
• Iceland ProCruises Jacket

10 days from £2480.5

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• Bridgeman Services Group adds to its Floatel fleet Ocean Diamond...

Bridgeman Services Group adds to its Floatel fleet Ocean Diamond cruise ship

Canada-based Bridgeman Services Group has expanded its portfolio of "floatel" accommodations with the acquisition of a retired cruise ship, aiming to meet the rising demand from sectors such as LNG , mining, and renewable energy. The purchased vessel, formerly known as the Song of Flower and later Le Diamant, marks Bridgeman's second acquisition in less than a year, bringing the company's fleet of large vessels for accommodation projects to a total of 6.

Previous acquisitions by Bridgeman primarily involved European ferries, including Isabelle X purchased from Tallink in 2023, which provided housing for Ukrainian refugees in Scotland. With the addition of the Ocean Diamond (fka Diamond XI), Bridgeman shifts its focus to retired cruise ships to enhance its accommodation capacity.

Brian Grange, President of Bridgemans, describes MV Diamond XI as a suitable vessel for projects requiring premium accommodation space of up to 350 beds, as well as catering and entertainment facilities. The ship is intended to support projects in their initial stages or provide additional accommodation during peak workforce periods.

The cruise ship, originally built in 1974 as the Begonia, underwent various drydock refits  throughout its career. It started as a RoRo cargo vessel before being converted into a deluxe cruise ship named Exploration Starship in 1986. After changes in ownership and operations, including stints with Japanese investors and Ponant , the ship operated under the name Ocean Diamond, focusing on luxury expedition cruises until 2022-2023.

Bridgeman plans to refurbish the vessel, now named Diamond XI, with 150 accommodation cabins, along with a newly renovated dining room, auditorium, fitness facilities, and offices. Additional enhancements include a "grab and go" food area, common area renovations, expanded workspaces and meeting rooms, and a boat landing for crew and cargo transfers, allowing for customization based on client requirements.

This acquisition follows Bridgeman's previous purchase of the Isabelle, a 34,000 gross ton vessel acquired in July 2023, which underwent extensive renovations before beginning its contract with Woodfibre LNG to accommodate construction workers.

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A company is turning former cruise ships into floating hotels — see inside its largest 'floatel'

• Bridgemans ServicesGroup operates a fleet of former cruise ships turned into hotels. 
• Its "floatels" are designed to house workers during long-term projects.
• See its largest 652-cabin floatel with a game room and buffet.

Some old and unwanted cruise ships meet their demise at ship-breaking yards , where they are disassembled and sold for scrap.

Other vessels find a more fortunate fate, receiving a second chance to do what they already do best: serve as floating hotels.

Canada-based Bridgemans Services Group buys and charters former cruise ships to turn into "floatels," outfitted with standard cruise amenities like daily housekeeping, buffets, and relaxing lounges.

But the ships aren't designed to transport tourists from one destination to another anymore. Instead, companies turn to Bridgeman when they need to house workers for a long-term project, whether it be the construction of an offshore wind farm in Europe or the shooting of a major film in a remote destination.

Floatels can accommodate workers in remote destinations where hotels might not be an option.

In more metropolitan areas, Bridgemans says its ships could lessen the stress an inundation of workers might have on the local housing market.

And once they are no longer needed, the vessels depart and "leave no trace behind," the company said.

Over the last decade, Bridgemans has deployed its ships for 15 projects on every continent, Brian Grange, the company's president, told Business Insider.

Grange said that its deployments — most often for liquified natural gas companies — last for an average of two years.

In the past, it has also provided accommodations for MSC Cruises at its Ocean Cay private island and housing for more than 1,000 workers in the Philippines' on a project for the Manila International Airport during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The company's three ships range from 150 to 652 cabins.

The floatel operator acquired its largest ship, the 561-foot-long MV Isabelle X, in 2023.

In its past life, the 35-year-old vessel sailed around the Baltic Sea as one of Estonia-based Tallink Gruipp's cruise ships.

But gone are its days of leisurely cruising. The 35,000 gross-ton ship is now on its first deployment in Howe Sound, just north of Vancouver, where it's housing more than 600 workers who are building Woodfibre LNG's "net zero" LNG export facility.

Isabelle X underwent a six-month retrofit before it was sent to Howe Sound.

The process included updating the ship's cabins and adding amenities like a game room and an 8,000-square-foot gym.

The latter two are especially important: "We need to make sure we delineate between work and home," Grange told BI. "We have to create a social environment on board these vessels that makes it attractive for workforces around the world."

During their free time, workers can play billiards, relax in the outdoor lounge, or use the ship’s WiFi to catch up on social media.

The sports lounge has large television screens, while the games lounge has darts, ping pong tables, and air hockey.

The 'quiet lounges' are the go-to space for people who need to unwind after a long work day.

Or, they could recharge and catch up on the latest shows in their cabins, which all come with desks, storage, and 32-inch televisions.

Like a typical cruise ship, Bridgemans' vessels have buffets with live cooking stations, a dessert bar, and the occasional themed night.

The ships' chefs tailor their menus to the demographic and dietary restrictions of the workers on board, the company's president told BI.

Residents can expect at least four protein options, plenty of veggies, and handmade bread and desserts.

Unlike most cruise lines, Bridgemans can pre-purchase all the food it needs before deployment.

Grange says this allows the ships to maintain food quality and consistency in remote locations.

Remember that deployment in the Philippines during COVID-19? He said the ship had packed almost 800 tons of food ahead of the project.

He wouldn’t disclose the cost to rent one of Bridgemans’ floatels.

But he did note that the cost of a cabin on the Woodfibre LNG project in Howe Sound is comparable to a hotel room in nearby Vancouver, as is the case with most of its projects near major cities.

The company’s most recent acquisition, the 150-cabin Diamond XI, is currently being retrofitted and would be ready for deployment this year.

According to the company's president, the vessel is small and high-end, likely to be used for sporting events and movie shoots.

It could also be the start of a greater expansion: He hopes to add two or three more vessels to its fleet in the next five years.

"The world has opened up to this as a valued alternative to housing," Grange told BI.

Who knows, the next time you see a cruise ship off the coast, there's a slim but possible chance it could be housing workers — not vacationers.

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