Multiple Funds Allocated for Ship Transformation Project
The White Fleet GmbH has announced that two of its passenger ships, the MS "Countess Cosel" and the MS "August the Strong", will undergo renovation in the coming year.
The renovation of the MS "Countess Cosel" is set to begin in early January 2024, with the MS "August the Strong" following suit in winter 2024/25. Victor Straubhaar, Managing Director of White Fleet GmbH, stated that the ships are thirty years old and in need of an update.
Both ships will undergo extensive renovation, including modernization of their technology and interiors. The MS "Countess Cosel" will also see changes to its exterior, shining in a new black and white design. The exterior design of the MS "August the Strong" has not been specified yet.
The MS "Countess Cosel" is expected to be ready for use by the 1st of May 2024, while the MS "August the Strong" will remain usable in the long term after its renovation. The renovation of the MS "Countess Cosel" is expected to take around four months.
The cost for renovating one ship is 1.7 million euros, but the total cost for both ships has not been specified. The renovation work will mainly take place at the Laubegast shipyard.
Interestingly, the four interior spaces of the MS "Countess Cosel" will be renewed and given a more modern design. In contrast, the nine historic ships of the White Fleet will retain their historic charm and not be redesigned.
New furniture suited to their purpose, such as conference tables, bistro sets, and lounge furniture, will be installed on both ships. However, there are no available details or specific information about the renovation changes for the White Fleet's ships in the Elbe Valley beyond what has been mentioned.
Victor Straubhaar also assured that the low water levels in the summer of 2023 have not affected the ships' readiness for the future. The White Fleet is investing millions in the renovation of these passenger ships, ensuring their continued service and enjoyment for passengers.
For those seeking more precise and up-to-date details about these renovations, dedicated maritime news sources, the official website of the White Fleet, or recent local news reports specifically concerning these vessels may provide further information.
In the anticipated renovation of both vintage vessels, the MS "Countess Cosel" and MS "August the Strong", White Fleet GmbH will venture into upgrading not only their interiors with modern technology and furnishings, but also their exteriors, with a sleek new black and white design for the former. The MS "Countess Cosel" is slated for reopening by May 2024, while the renovation of the MS "August the Strong" will more likely take place in the winter of 2024/25. Additionally, the automotive and transportation sectors may find parallel in the extensive revamp project, as the investment for each ship amounts to 1.7 million euros.
