Albatros by Phoenix
The Albatros by Phoenix is a captivating vessel that promises an unforgettable journey for adventure seekers and relaxation lovers alike. This cruise ship, known for its classic design and modern amenities, takes passengers on explorations of breathtaking destinations, offering both comfort and excitement.
| Specifications | Details |
|---|---|
| Year of Build | 1973 |
| Age | 48 |
| Builder | Wartsila Hietalahti Shipyard (Helsinki, Finland) |
| Class | Royal Viking Star |
| Speed | 19 kn / 35 km/h / 22 mph |
| Length (LOA) | 205 m / 673 ft |
| Beam (Width) | 27 m / 89 ft |
| Gross Tonnage | 28,518 gt |
| Passengers | 830 |
| Crew | 340 |
| Passengers-to-Space Ratio | 35 |
| Decks | 10 |
| Cabins | 420 |
| Decks with Cabins | 8 |
| Last Refurbishment | 2018, Alang-scrapped in 2021 |
| Sister Ships | Royal Viking Sky (Boudicca), Royal Viking Star (Black Watch) |
| Former Names | Crown Mare Nostrum, MS Crown, Norwegian Star, Royal Odyssey, Royal Viking Sea |
| Owner | PickAlbatros Group |
| Operator | PickAlbatros Hotels & Resorts Egypt |
History - construction and ownership
The German cruise tour company Phoenix Reisen started cruise operations under its own brand in 1988, with the chartered for 20 years liner TS Maxim Gorkiy (1969-2009 scrapped, owned by USSR's Black Sea Shipping Company / later privatized and renamed Sovcomflot). In 1993, Phoenix Reisen added a second liner - SS Albatros (1957-built as RMS Sylvania, 2004-scrapped as SS Genoa). The vessel was chartered from V-Ships for 10 years (1993-2003). Today, Phoenix Reisen (travel agency and cruise brand) has a large fleet of chartered and owned ocean ships and riverboats.
The 830-passenger ship Albatros debuted in 1973 in the fleet of Royal Viking Line (1972-founded/1998-defunct). It also sailed under the names "MS Crown", "Norwegian Star" (link to the NCL ship) and "Royal Odyssey". MS Albatros joined Phoenix Reisen in 2004 as the second ship to bear the name, as well as the fleet's oldest boat.
Decks and Cabins
Albatros has 10 decks (8 passenger-accessible, 6 with cabins) and a total of 420 staterooms. Passenger cabins are sized between 10 m2 (small inside) and 17 m2 (outside), up to 60 m2 (Captain's Suite). All staterooms are grouped into 42 cabin grades.
Shipboard facilities and amenities
MS Albatros has two Main Dining Rooms - Seagull (Mowe) and Pelikan. Other onboard dining venues include Lido Lunch and Pizzeria. The ship has six lounges and bars (including Casablanca and Harry's Bars).
In 2013, MS Albatros celebrated 40 years of service and was refitted to the highest standards with a contemporary feel. Vacations onboard Albatros cruise ship are carefree, because of the informal atmosphere and great quality of service her staff provides. Despite her age, ms Albatros is in accordance with the latest safety-at-sea requirements. The ship boasts a pool, gym, casino and spa. By passengers, the boat has been rated "excellent value for money", praised for the onboard entertainment, service and child-friendliness.
MS Albatros entertainment options include Karibik Lounge, Pacific Lounge, Kopernikus Bar, Casablanca Bar, Harry's Bar & Disco, Atlantik Bar & Lounge, Wellness Area, Fitness Center, Beauty Salon, Spa, sauna, steam bath, Golf Garden, table tennis, shuffleboard, Sport Deck, whirlpool, swimming pool, Captain's Garden, Boutique, all-around promenade, Theater/Cinema (2-deck), Photo/Video Shop & Gallery, Internet Center.
Itineraries
Phoenix Reisen Albatros cruise itinerary program was based on popular destinations in Europe (Mediterranean Sea, Baltic Sea, North Sea), Asia, Australia New Zealand, South Africa, South America, Canada and New England USA. On Around the World Voyages, the ship also offered Panama Canal and Suez Canal transits. Transatlantic repositioning crossings (between Europe and the Caribbean) were offered seasonally.