The world got its first glimpse of Saga’s custom-built British boutique cruise ship, Spirit of Discovery, today (12 May) as she was floated out from the Building Hall at Meyer Werft Shipyard in Germany.
The 55,000-ton ship – Saga’s first ever new-build – left her dry dock in Papenburg at 04.00 when her mast and funnel were finally lifted on to the ship.
Later today she will be moved to the nearby quay where she will undergo further trials in readiness for going to sea.
Towards the end of May Spirit of Discovery will be towed along the River Ems, from Papenburg to Emden, before commencing sea trials in early June.
Spirit of Discovery emerges into the sunlight for the first time, above, when the addition of the funnel completes her identity, top of page
Spirit of Discovery around the world, proudly flying the Red Ensign. When Saga takes delivery of the ship on 20 June, she will be registered in the UK and proudly display London as her port of registry on her stern.
The Red Ensign, established as a naval flag of royal standard in 1707, is an historic emblem of British seafaring excellence.
The interior design of Spirit of Discovery, which will carry up to 999 guests and 523 crew, has been created by the UK-based agency SMC.
More than 400 pieces of original British art among more than 1,000 total artworks, many of which have been created by artists working in Britain today. A host of independent British suppliers, including Hush Heath wine producers of Kent, will be supplying the ship.
Nigel Blanks, COO of Saga Cruises said: “This is a major milestone. Spirit of Discovery has been meticulously designed for our customers and to epitomise Saga’s unique British boutique cruising concept.
“We would like to thank everyone at Meyer Werft, and look forward to the keel laying of Spirit of Adventure, on 3 June, as we start the construction of our next ship for the British market.”
Spirit of Discovery will be the first cruise ship to be named at the port of Dover for more than a decade, following the £250m redevelopment of Dover Western Docks. Arriving in Dover on 28 June, her naming ceremony will take place on 5 July, with her inaugural cruise commencing on 10 July.