Profile: Serco NorthLink Ferries
Hrossey began a £1 million makeover, which, among a raft of changes and enhancements, included a new sleeping pod concept – Serco NorthLink Ferries is the first ferry operator in the world to offer these sleeping pods. The seats recline back to allow passengers to lie and sleep without intruding on the space of the person behind. The fee charged includes a pack with a blanket, pillow and eye mask as well as a token for a free shower in the facilities next door exclusively for those purchasing a sleeping pod. This is a means of offering passengers a comfortable alternative to a cabin. The refurbishments also included the creation of Magnus’ Lounge, open to passengers with premium cabin tickets or anyone who buys a ticket to use it. Inside there are free newspapers, magazines, snacks and drinks, including tea and coffee. Food for all passengers can be ordered from a new single ship’s menu, which has been likened to the kind of ‘gastro-pub’ fare on offer in contemporary chain restaurants. Meanwhile, the wi-fi service is being improved to a standard that would allow videos to be streamed to passengers on demand. Several other changes have also been carried out, including new livery – a striking logo of a Viking now adorns the side of the passengers boats. When the M.V Hamnavoe was returned to service following the rebrand, Stuart Garrett, Managing Director, noted the
importance of this exercise: “[This vessel] has truly been transformed,” he said. “A key element to the new livery is to excite potential tourists about the history and culture of the Northern Isles. The huge Viking image on the Hamnavoe is designed to make an impact so that people choose the Northern Isles and NorthLink Ferries for their next holiday.” The M.V Hjaltland was the second vessel to be rebranded, and this ship returned to its duties in February. Said Stuart: “Following the extremely positive reception that the Hamnavoe came home to, we are looking forward to unveiling the remainder of the fleet. We are confident that the new livery will excite potential tourists about the history and culture of the Northern Isles, with the hope that they will be prompted to experience it for themselves.” Alongside these specific vessel changes, Serco NorthLink Ferries has also introduced a new facility to make travelling with the company easier by way of its brand new online booking
Northrop Grumman Sperry Marine
Northrop Grumman Sperry Marine supplies competitive technologies and services to maritime customers worldwide. It is proud of the long-standing relationship with Serco NorthLink Ferries in providing safe passage, performance, reliability and through-life service to the fleet, crew and passengers. As supplier of the Integrated Bridge System to Serco NorthLink Ferries, Northrop Grumman Sperry Marine is committed to first-class customer service and world-class navigational efficiency.
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