Mundy Cruising and Mundy Adventures have predicted the future of cruising with AI, reviewing the most innovative designs currently under development and the impact AI will have on the industry.
The team at Mundy Cruising have reviewed developments from key innovators within the industry. For example Ponant have unveiled a pioneering design for its next-generation cruise ship that would produce zero CO2 equivalent emissions, featuring sails, photovoltaic panels and liquid hydrogen power sources. Meanwhile, the Orient Express Silenseas project will see them building the world’s largest sailing ship with a ground breaking technological design known as ‘SolidSail’: three rigid sails with tilting masts reaching more than 100 metres high, ensuring up to 100% of the propulsion in suitable weather conditions, and to be used in conjunction with green hydrogen when necessary.
Solar and shoreside electrical power feature in Four Seasons’ new luxury yacht, but perhaps the most exciting innovations will come with the growth of AI. Mundy Cruising predicts that it will unlock a host of developments in ship design and onboard experience. The very shape of cruise ships is likely to shift as AI finds the most efficient design, with carbon-neutral power incorporated and controlled by AI in ways never before considered possible, imaging an exciting possible future.
AI assisted navigation will help plot the most fuel-efficient route, enabling guests to benefit from much smoother sailings. AI can also assist with passenger flow, saving energy and reducing waste – all key to the industry’s commitment to achieving carbon-neutral operations by 2050.
Guests will benefit from an AI powered virtual concierge, able to respond in conversational language to fulfil requests such as restaurant opening times, menu choices and shore excursion availability, as well as provide personal recommendations 24/7.
“There will be a slew of enhancements brought by AI across all aspects of luxury cruising, from ship design and build to efficiencies in itinerary planning and provisioning, to enhanced guest interaction. Importantly, what will come to define the new luxury small ship experience will be personal human interaction, as key to the core of true luxury,” says Edwina Lonsdale, Managing Director of Mundy Cruising.
In the expedition space, Mundy Adventures looks at the existing innovations onboard Ponant’s Le Commandant Charcot, a luxury hybrid electric polar exploration ice breaker, powered by liquified natural gas and Hurtigruten’s aim to design the world’s most energy-efficient cruise ship. This will test technologies such as wind and solar sails, battery banks, an A.I. guided bridge slimmed down to the size of a cockpit, hidden thrusters and more efficient propeller flow, underwater air lubrication and smart cabins. Tracking these developments – along with the wider advances in AI – Mundy Adventures imagines the shape of ships will likely shift again, enhancing ships as platforms for exploration, with panoramic views from every part of your basecamp for adventure, and open decks with plenty of tools for exploration
AI navigation can help ensure safe passage through sea ice, maximise the possibilities of wildlife encounters and provide the best chance of making even difficult landings. Expedition ships can better assist with scientific data collection and analysis, helping to proactively protect the areas in which they operate whilst virtual and augmented reality can be used to help guests understand this research with immersive learning experiences.
A virtual concierge, available 24/7, can answer questions and elevate the service levels by allowing staff to interact more meaningfully with guests, sharing stories of adventure and bring the destination to life.
“AI in the expedition sector is about the enhancement of the human connection rather than simply second-guessing the wants and needs of individuals on the basis of past behaviours, improving the experience and allowing guests to be delighted by authentic interactions, extraordinary surprises and exceptional destinations that take them out of their comfort zone.” Says Edwina Lonsdale.
Mundy Cruising and Mundy Adventures are also determined to set new standards of excellence in the industry by harnessing the immense power of AI themselves. By blending cutting-edge technology with their expertise in luxury travel, they are redefining what it means to be a travel agent in the 21st century.
For further information about these predictions visit
Mundy Cruising – Predicting the future of luxury cruising with AI and Mundy Adventures – Predicting the future of expedition cruises with AI
Mundy Cruising’s Edwina Lonsdale and Alex Loizou are both available for comment about this story and the cruise industry in general. If you would like to speak to either of them, call Kate Selley Public Relations on 07903 682296 or email kate@kateselleypr.co.uk
Visit Mundy www.mundycruising.co.uk and www.mundyadventures.co.uk
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About Mundy Cruising and Mundy Adventures:
Mundy Cruising and Mundy Adventures are leaders in small ship luxury cruising and expedition cruising. With a legacy spanning over 50 years, they have earned a reputation for excellence and unparalleled service in the industry. Their commitment to innovation and personalised adventures has made them trusted partners for discerning travellers seeking extraordinary experiences around the world.
