Canada-based Bridgeman Services Group has expanded its portfolio of "floatel" accommodations with the acquisition of a retired cruise ship, aiming to meet the rising demand from sectors such as LNG, mining, and renewable energy. The purchased vessel, formerly known as the Song of Flower and later Le Diamant, marks Bridgeman's second acquisition in less than a year, bringing the company's fleet of large vessels for accommodation projects to a total of 6.
Previous acquisitions by Bridgeman primarily involved European ferries, including Isabelle X purchased from Tallink in 2023, which provided housing for Ukrainian refugees in Scotland. With the addition of the Ocean Diamond (fka Diamond XI), Bridgeman shifts its focus to retired cruise ships to enhance its accommodation capacity.
Brian Grange, President of Bridgemans, describes MV Diamond XI as a suitable vessel for projects requiring premium accommodation space of up to 350 beds, as well as catering and entertainment facilities. The ship is intended to support projects in their initial stages or provide additional accommodation during peak workforce periods.
The cruise ship, originally built in 1974 as the Begonia, underwent various drydock refits throughout its career. It started as a RoRo cargo vessel before being converted into a deluxe cruise ship named Exploration Starship in 1986. After changes in ownership and operations, including stints with Japanese investors and Ponant, the ship operated under the name Ocean Diamond, focusing on luxury expedition cruises until 2022-2023.
Bridgeman plans to refurbish the vessel, now named Diamond XI, with 150 accommodation cabins, along with a newly renovated dining room, auditorium, fitness facilities, and offices. Additional enhancements include a "grab and go" food area, common area renovations, expanded workspaces and meeting rooms, and a boat landing for crew and cargo transfers, allowing for customization based on client requirements.
This acquisition follows Bridgeman's previous purchase of the Isabelle, a 34,000 gross ton vessel acquired in July 2023, which underwent extensive renovations before beginning its contract with Woodfibre LNG to accommodate construction workers.