Construction Begins for Birka Line’s New Cruise Vessel

14 Shipyards were competing last November for Birka Line’s newbuilding contract. Aker Finnyards won, and after the design period the production of the cruiser started today. The vessel, approximately $181M, is considered to be an environmentally friendly vessel- it fulfills two very new classification criteria; DNV’s Clean Design rule defining several environmental solutions as to the ship structures, and the Comfort Class rule securing a noiseless and vibration free environment. In addition, the vessel complies with the same environmental quality standards as the Birka Princess, which is equipped with an exhaust gas treatment system, closed sewage treatment systems, atoxic bottom painting etc. The cruise ship designed mainly for year round service in the Baltic sea comprises eleven decks, five of which are dedicated to passenger accommodation and three to passenger public spaces; conference area, dance lounge, several restaurants and bars, casino, shopping area, children’s playroom etc.