Ayr-based company Clydebuilt has revealed plans for its Dark Island cruiseliner, which is at “production ready stage” and is “scheduled to set sail in early 2028”.
The 748-foot Dark Island will boast 236 ultra-luxurious suites and a capacity for 724 residents attended by 540 crew.
Amenities on board include restaurants, a spa, putting green, theatre, gym and fitness centre, pool, library and hair salon, alongside water exploration vehicles “for sea trek and sea dive adventure”.
Designed in collaboration with the London-based super yacht designer, Evan K. Marshall, the vessel will launch with a three year ‘Around the World’ tour followed by a ‘Voyages of Discovery’ tour, which will retrace “the seafaring routes of Christopher Columbus, Francis Drake and James Cook”.
Clydebuilt said Dark Island “aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals through policy and practice for sustainability and green initiatives”.
Tommy McGinn, managing director of Clydebuilt, said: “Founded on an absolute commitment to quality, Clydebuilt are dedicated to provide the ultimate experience living at sea.
“Purchasing a luxury, high-end suite aboard Dark Island is a fantastic choice for those seeking an elevated living experience”.
Clydebuilt – which was “formed to address the dereliction of opportunity on the Clyde” – said it plans for the vessel to be constructed on Scotland’s most famous river, helping to ensure that the Clyde is “relevant for future generations”.
Speaking to The Telegraph, McGinn said he is currently in talks with three yards to build the £1.2b vessel, with “one in particular quite keen”.
And responding to scepticism over the plans, McGinn added: “You always get cynics but I’ve never asked someone to do what I’m not willing to do myself. We’ve taken the risk and ploughed our own money into it.
“We need as much assistance as possible to get this built on the Clyde.”
While no official pricings have been released, The Telegraph reports that suites will range from £4.2m – for the expected 50-year life of the ship – to £41m.
