1. The Little U Project
PF Naughton
June 19th 2017
Design Brief

2. Background Information
Gibbs & Cox (G&C)
Established 1929.
Renown for design of US Navy vessels and the high-speed, advanced technology Passenger Liner SS United States (also sometimes affectionately referred to as “the Big U”).
Donald L. Blount & Associates (DLBA)
Established 1988.
Acquired by G&C in 2015.
Renown for development of high-performance marine craft including motor yachts and custom sport fishing boats.

3. Design Synergy Modern power yachts can reach lengths up to 180m.
Expedition and destination based cruises on yacht sized vessels are a growing cruise market segment.
The “Little U Project” showcases the combined abilities of both G&C and DLBA in the form of a technologi- cally advanced “Luxury Liner” themed, yacht sized, expedition cruise vessel.
Target Market

4. Existing Expedition Cruise Fleet
Numerous small vessels currently operate in the expedition cruise market.
Many are approaching years of age, with older machinery plants and auxiliary systems.
Often do not meet latest stability, passenger accessibility or environmental protection standards.
Competition

5. Future Expedition Cruise Fleet
High vessel speed not a significant concern.
Greater focus on improved efficiency, low emissions, and reduced environmental impacts.
Advanced technologies highly sought after for;
reduce “environmental footprint”,
improve safety,
improve comfort and passenger experience onboard.
Advanced shipboard entertainment and data network, and stowage space for inflatables, kayaks, remotely piloted vehicles (RPVs), and unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) can provides for increased passenger enjoyment and a unique cruise experience.

6. Style & Ambiance
Some large vessels invoke look and feel of the great Trans-Atlantic Liners of the last century.
A few smaller vessels mimic an earlier “turn of the century” steamship motif.
However, does not appear to be any yacht sized vessels whose style reflects the “golden age” of passenger liners.

7. A Modern Vessel for a Reduced Environmental Footprint
The “Little U Project” provides small cruise companies with a vessel focused not only on the safety of the passengers and crew, but also the ecologically sensitive locations where the ship may sail.
The design leverages features pioneered on modern power yachts, tailored for the expedition and destination cruise market.
Under Development
Image

8. Innovations & Special Features
A mega-yacht inspired stern stowage for snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaks, inflatable boats and/or ROVs and UUVs.
A panoramic observation lounge.
Efficient utilization of onboard space through the use of flexible/fold away furnishings and multi-use public spaces.
Luxury Liner inspired Atrium and Main Dining Hall.
Improved accessibility features for mobility impaired passengers.
Innovations

9. Innovations & Special Features
Efficient hullform capable of meeting latest safety and stability regulations.
Efficient, low environmental impact, electrical and propulsion plant options.
LED lighting, innovative pneumatic/ vacuum elevators and modern HVAC systems for reduced electric power requirements.
High speed data/entertainment network to allow for in room video conferencing and viewing of ROV/UUV feeds.
Innovations

10. Design Themes Berthing Areas Clever/efficient use of space.
Observation Lounge/Reading Room
A warm, cozy, quiet reading room atmosphere with a panoramic view.
Main Lounge
A friendly pub-like place to meet with friends and unwind at the end of the day.
Atrium/Main Entrance Foyer
World exploration.
Styled after foyers from the golden age of passenger liners with modern design cues.
Dining Hall
Elegant dining area styled after the golden age of passenger liners.