A polar cruise liner being built at the Haimen shipping center of China Merchants Industry Holdings Co on March 16 [Photo/WeChat account: jshmtt]

Construction started on the No 2 polar cruise liner at the Haimen shipping center of China Merchants Industry Holdings Co on March 16. At the same time, equipment installation started on the No 3 polar cruise ship.

The ships are part of a 10-cruise-ship deal for polar expeditions between the Chinese shipbuilder and the Miami-based SunStone Ships Inc.

The first Chinese-built cruise ship designed for polar trips was handed over to the US company in Haimen last June and successfully conducted its maiden voyage to the Antarctic in October.

According to authorities, the basic design was undertaken by Ulstein Group in Norway, while the detailed design and production were independently completed by the Haimen center.

The ship combines the advantages of expedition ships and ordinary cruise ships, including higher safety requirements and comfort standards. It is also one of the most environmentally friendly cruise ships in the world, with fuel consumption being 30 percent to 60 percent lower than currently used ships of the same size.

The two ships currently under construction have received several improvements over the first ship. Construction on the No 3 ship started last March and is expected to be completed in October this year. Unlike the No 1 ship, it boasts a swimming pool and a restaurant on the eighth deck.

The No 2 ship boasts two sightseeing areas on the fifth and sixth decks and a glass wall offering 180-degree views. It is expected to be delivered in September 2021.