< PREVIOUS                                        NEXT >

During the last six weeks, the primary focus of activity aboard the Lyngen has been demolition work. Meanwhile, however, many of us at LEX have been intently focused on the next phase of this shipyard: the design and execution of the new interior spaces. For the first time in LEX’s history, we are beginning with a clean slate: an expedition ship to design with the benefit of our collective, hard-earned wisdom and experience. A thrilling, and daunting, task to be sure!

Virtually every decision to be made – from the lights and storage space in the bathrooms to the style and comfort of the chairs in the lounge – represent an opportunity to enhance our guests’ shipboard experience. And it is exactly these decisions, being made every day, that are informed by guest feedback.

Recently we electronically polled 6,000 guests that have traveled with us on the National Geographic Endeavour in the last five years, primarily inquiring about their preferences for bed configurations. How many guests prefer queen-sized beds over twins? Knowing this answer enabled us to optimally design as many cabins as possible for the layouts of their choice (20%, by the way, prefer a queen-sized bed).

Our primary architect and designer, Richard Nilsson of Figura Design in Gothenburg, met with Sven and team this week to select materials and treatments for the ship. Construction of the bathrooms (or “wet spaces,” in shipyard-speak) will begin in January, so tiles, vanities, and fixtures were the first point of focus. Maximizing space, ensuring excellent lighting, and designing ample storage were all key considerations. Hotel manager Patrik Svardmyr’s input was invaluable, as he has contributed suggestions based on years of experience with the National Geographic Endeavour and Polaris. By week’s end, 1,200 square meters of tile were on order from the manufacturer in Spain, to ensure timely delivery and installation.

During a quick visit to the shipyard, we were impressed to see how organized and tidy the crew and officers have kept the Lyngen, despite the work and removal of several tons of materials. She is truly a clean slate, ready for her next incarnation. The interior work to create our National Geographic Explorer will now begin in earnest!  

< BACK TO MAIN PAGE                                                         NEXT >

ARCHIVE