Orient Lines, the niche cruise operator, is up for sale according to Colin Veitch, CEO of Miami-based NCL who own the brand. ”But we are not in a hurry regarding disposal,” he said. ”By 2010 NCL will have a 21st century built fleet and Marco Polo, the sole Orient Line ship, just does not fit in. It is a great pity as we have a strong and loyal customer base.”
The Marco Polo began life as the Alexander Pushkin and first sailed under Orient Lines in November 1993 following an extensive refurbishment. She now features two restaurants, four lounges, a casino, library, health club, beauty centre, internet centre, outdoor swimming pool and three Jacuzzis. At over 22,000 tons, she retains her handsome traditional profile and her resilient ice-strengthened hull that enables her to cruise in the Antarctic, an area that is gaining in popularity.