Company insight


Custom by design I


n the expedition and small-ship cruise sector, the vessels that succeed are rarely one-size-fits-all. Yet for operators navigating seasonal itineraries, varied climates and evolving guest expectations, consistency and customisation are both essential. Over more than three decades, SunStone has built the knowledge needed to strike this balance. The company, which provides long- term charter solutions to tour operators and cruise brands around the world, has built its reputation on a rare formula: technically uniform ships that are operationally versatile and highly customisable. The result is a fleet that is technically capable to operate efficiently in the Amazon as well as Antarctica, while still allowing each charterer to make the vessel distinctly their own.


Standardisation with a strategic purpose


Across its Infinity class ships, and now with the development of the Boundless class, SunStone has maintained a consistent technical platform. All ships are biofuel capable and polar class certified, equipped with virtual anchoring and zero-speed stabilisers, and designed to meet Safe Return to Port regulations. This uniformity is not just about engineering efficiency. It reduces operational complexity for clients, simplifies regulatory approvals and supports global deployment. For charterers managing diverse itineraries, the advantage is clear: familiar systems, proven reliability and a vessel that can go where the market demands.


A charterer-centric approach Where many ship owners maintain a focus on performance specs, SunStone extends its focus to customisation. According to CEO Carsten Lund, this adaptability is central to the company’s long-term charter model.


“Our charter contracts run ten to 15 years for new builds, so it’s important that each ship truly becomes the charterer’s vessel during this time,” says Lund. “That


How SunStone vessels blend standardisation with tailored solutions to provide a fleet that is capable of operating in the Amazon to Antarctica.


The Sylvia Earle observation deck.


begins with layout and design, but it continues in how the vessel is operated and experienced by passengers.” From cabin configurations to public spaces, charterers are involved in the design process from the outset. Some opt for additional outdoor areas in exchange for fewer staterooms. Others prioritise observation lounges, wellness zones or platforms for water activities. Even existing vessels are routinely refitted to align with charterer branding and on-board programming.


Boundless by name and by nature The Boundless class, SunStone’s latest new-build series, takes this flexibility further. The design caters especially to warm-water cruising, with expanded outdoor deck space, a retractable pool area and 100% balcony cabins. A new enclosed garage replaces the aft outdoor zodiac storage and expands its use to other small craft, freeing outdoor deck space for passenger use.


Boundless also introduces exterior modification options. Charterers can opt for a custom superstructure design depending on whether they prefer more cabins or more public space. It’s a reflection of SunStone’s broader strategy: provide a


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stable foundation before tailoring each ship to meet distinct commercial needs.


Built for the long haul


Unlike cruise lines that commission vessels for their own fleets, SunStone charters its ships to operators around the world. This model, in place since the company’s founding, emphasises long-term relationships and operational alignment. That business philosophy shapes everything from the company’s shipbuilding partnerships to its approach to interior design. It’s also why SunStone invests heavily in making sure each vessel is as adaptable as it is reliable. “We are not building for a single itinerary or brand,” says Lund. “We are building ships that need to perform in multiple environments and reflect the identity of each charterer.” In a market where both adventure cruising and destination diversity are growing, that adaptability is proving to be an asset. For tour operators seeking vessels that offer both proven performance and personalised possibilities, SunStone’s formula may be as close to custom-built as it gets. ●


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