A cruise specialist has combined its 50 years of industry experience with new technology to predict what the future of cruising may look like.
Mundy Cruising and Mundy Adventures has used AI software to generate what a futuristic cruise ship may look like and how the new technology may impact the industry.
Combined with the technology, the team at Mundy Cruising have reviewed developments from key innovators within the industry, such Ponant’s design for its next-generation cruise ship that would produce zero CO2 equivalent emissions.
Yet Mundy believes the most exciting cruise adaptation will come from AI, which it says will unlock a host of developments in ship design and onboard experience.
"The very shape of cruise ships is likely to shift as AI finds the most efficient design, with carbon-neutral power incorporated and controlled by AI in ways never before considered possible, imagining an exciting possible future," the firm said.
AI-assisted navigation will help plot the most fuel-efficient route, enabling guests to benefit from much smoother sailings, and can also assist with passenger flow, saving energy and reducing waste.
Guests could also benefit from an AI-powered virtual concierge, able to respond in conversational language to fulfil requests such as restaurant opening times, menu choices and shore excursion availability, as well as provide personal recommendations 24/7.
“There will be a slew of enhancements brought by AI across all aspects of luxury cruising, from ship design and build to efficiencies in itinerary planning and provisioning, to enhanced guest interaction," said Mundy Cruising managing director Edwina Lonsdale.
"Importantly, what will come to define the new luxury small-ship experience will be personal human interaction, as key to the core of true luxury."
In terms of expedition, AI navigation can help ensure safe passage through sea ice, maximise the possibilities of wildlife encounters and provide the best chance of making difficult landings.
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