With the completion of successful testing of the hull and propellers at the end of 2010 the US$ 1.1 billion residential ship – the »Utopia« – is on schedule at Korean yard Samsung Heavy Industries. The vessel is designed to be the most luxurious ship in the world offering its 200 residents to travel to world famous cultural and sporting events in opulent style.
The Chairman of Utopia Mr. David Robb said »This is a technological breakthrough. We have completed the core technical testing[ds_preview] for this luxurious ocean liner. The ship’s hull will be wider than hulls on most passenger vessels, which will give our residents on this ocean liner smoother sailing. The hull was also modified to be more environmentally friendly. As a result, we have a more fuel efficient hull and propellers that will move through the ocean more quietly and sensitively.«
The President of Samsung Heavy Industries Mr Roh In-Sik remarked: »This is a significant event in the building of ›Utopia‹ and a significant milestone for Samsung as we further penetrate the passenger ship market internationally. With this investment in the ›Utopia‹, we come closer to producing the world’s most luxurious ship.« For several months, engineering teams from Samsung and Utopia worked together in Korea where Samsung owns the largest commercial hull testing facility in the world (SSMB). The final tests have just concluded successfully. Mr. Roh In-Sik also remarked: »Samsung selected its best engineers companywide for the ›Utopia‹. There are over 70 engineers and technical personnel working on the ship.«
Captain Ola Harsheim, Utopia Vice President of shipbuilding commented »The successful completion of these hull tests has proven the technical viability of our ship. These tests go way beyond any computer model or simulations because they are physical tests on water. The completion of these tests is very exciting for our resident community. The widening of the ›Utopia‹ hull and the inclusion of four stabilizers make our ship unique and will maximize the comfort for our residents and guests.«
Pat Boone acquires luxury estate
While work continous in the yard the LA Sales office welcomes the first celebrity on board. Entertainer Pat Boone and his family have acquired a luxury estate on board the new residential ocean liner. David Robb, Chairman of Utopia Residences said, »Pat Booneand his family are joining a community of some of the best families and leaders in business, sports, entertainment and politics on the ›Utopia‹.« Pat Boone is on the top 10 list of artists with the most recorded hit singles in world history. Mr Robb added, »Pat Boone and his wife are leaders in philanthropy and will represent us well as they travel the world in their home aboard our ship.«
Mr Boone said, »I am excited to take my family to these world class events on the world’s most luxurious ship. Everyone in my family is thrilled about having future family reunions on the Utopia and traveling the world without leaving our home on the sea.« He added, »The people at Utopia have a powerful vision of using the ship to engage in philanthropy around the world, and I want to be a part of that as well.«
Although it has not formally launched its international sales of its 200 residences, Utopia Residences told HANSA that the ocean liner has already attracted commitments and significant attention from high profile celebrities, philanthropists and iconic political and business people.
