Hapag-Lloyd Cruises has signed an agreement with the Norwegian VARD shipyard for the construction of a third new expedition ship.

The 230-passenger Hanseatic Spirit, due to launch in 2021, will follow the Hanseatic Nature, sailing in spring 2019, and the Hanseatic Inspiration, which also launches next year.

Karl J. Pojer, CEO of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, said: “Our expedition segment is already a success and offers potential for growth in the 5-star segment that we want to harness with these three new ships. With the new ships, we are launching a new expedition class and strengthening our leading position in this segment.

“By investing in the new Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ ships, the TUI Group is underlining its strategy for this cruise segment and the importance of our luxury brand to the group portfolio.”

The three ships will be structurally identical and fitted with cutting-edge equipment and environmental technology.

They will also have the highest ice class for passenger ships, meaning they will be positioned in the polar regions – the Arctic and Antarctic – as well as in warmer destinations such as the Amazon region.

On-board Zodiacs will also make it possible to land in expedition areas that do not have ports.

The Hanseatic Spirit will be the cruise line’s first adults-only ship and feature seven passenger decks and 120 cabins and suites.