Pearl to build two small ships

The subsidiary of American Cruise Lines, Ltd. Pearl Seas Cruises, has contracted with Irving Shipbuilding in Halifax, Nova Scotia to build two cruise ships set for completion in 2008 and 2009.

The ships will carry 165 and 210 passengers and will be outfitted with large suits of 240 square feet. Other features will be spacious observation decks and elevators on each floor. Satellite televisions and large libraries are also planned for the vessels. “The atmosphere is relaxing and inviting like that of a private club,” says a release from Pearl.

Pearl plans cruises to small, less used ports. Initial cruises planned are for the maritime provinces of Canada, New England and the Caribbean.