US owner Lindblad Expeditions is lining up a new cruiseship order as it expands its business.
CEO Sven-Olof Lindblad said in a results statement that the company was "close to finalising...plans for a newbuild blue-water vessel to be delivered in the second quarter of 2019."
"This increased capacity, combined with a loyal and expanding customer base which seeks an authentic expedition experience that we have a proven track record of providing, is expected to generate significant earnings growth and create additional shareholder value in the years ahead."
On a conference call he added: “It will be the most thought-out and equipped global expedition ship in the world."
Lindblad hopes it will open up previously inaccessible regions.
The company has six ships, plus two 100-berth newbuildings due this year and in 2018 from Nichols Bros in the US.
The owner announced net earnings of $0.6m for the first quarter, against $10.5m in 2016.
Tour revenues increased 3% to $63.1m.
Lindblad said: "Lindblad has started 2017 with significant operating momentum as bookings for future travel are up nearly 60% from the same period a year ago.
"While first quarter financial results were negatively impacted by unique voyage cancellations, the meaningful demand we are seeing for both existing and new vessels across our expedition fleet reinforces the appeal of our product and the opportunity we have to grow this business as we expand our current capacity."
