The Norwegian ship owner Color Line AS and Kvaerner Masa-Yards have agreed to extend the validity of their letter of intent signed in July 2002. The signing of the final contract has been delayed because the financing of the vessel is pending the outcome of the Norwegian budget proposal of October 3, 2002. already in effect in other Nordic and European countries. According to the letter of intent Color Line shall purchase and Kvaerner Masa-Yards shall design, build and deliver one cruise passenger ferry of about 74 500 gross tonnes. similar to the system in Sweden or Denmark. The vessel could start operation under Norwegian flag for the Christmas season 2004. The parties have agreed on the general arrangements and specifications of the vessel.