Viken Group targets cruise yacht market with launch of 196m REI concept

Viken Group has announced a new cruise yacht concept named REI, a 196-metre vessel designed as part of the company’s strategy to develop sustainable and technically advanced cruise yachts.

The project is a collaboration between the group’s three brands: Tillberg Design of Sweden (TDoS), Hot Lab, and Thalia Marine.

The concept combines exterior styling, engineering, interior design and master planning under one framework. According to Fredrik Johansson, Co-Founder of the Viken Group and Executive Director of TDoS, “The 196-metre project is the perfect illustration of the combined offerings of the Viken Group, where we manage exterior styling, engineering, master planning and interior under one umbrella. We can thereby help our clients in streamlining the process dramatically, controlling the investment, and optimising the outcome for both the guest and the operator. The yacht will come out and make money much sooner – and be far more successful and prosperous during its lifespan.”

The design of REI has been informed by natural forms, with an exterior described as a hard shell protecting a softer internal environment. Martin Butler, Creative Director at TDoS, said, “The purposeful exterior design, with its dynamic and progressive curves, nods towards a technical, industrial and automotive aesthetic.”

The interior is designed to offer a quieter atmosphere, using tactile materials and adaptive lighting to promote rest and comfort. Butler said the interior is intended to allow guests to slow down and disconnect digitally.

REI spans 196 metres across 10 decks and has a beam of 28 metres. It is designed to accommodate 112 guests and 125 crew. Its layout includes a central thoroughfare connecting entertainment and guest areas. According to Enrico Lumini, Co-Founder and Design Director at Hot Lab, “Exterior deck spaces can be booked for private functions, and guests can enjoy relaxing in private pools connected to the suites’ terraces as well as letting off steam in semi-private spas.”

Amenities include duplex suites with winter gardens, pools, and massage areas, as well as double-height windows in some public areas that offer panoramic views. A forward infinity pool, spa, and observation lounge are also planned.

The vessel is being developed with various sustainable propulsion options in mind, including electric, hydrogen, solar, and wind. A 27-metre secondary vessel is also included in the design, intended to support embarkation and disembarkation via a multi-use beach club at the stern.

REI will offer a flexible itinerary with seasonal adaptations to its onboard activities, entertainment and menus. Dining will be themed across three core elements—sea, land, and sky—and will adjust depending on the region visited.

Antonio Romano, Commercial and Marketing Director at Viken Group, said: “The market for cruise yachts is currently looking very promising. The Four Seasons yacht will hit the water soon, and numerous other high-end brands are looking to enter this space. Thanks to our three brands—TDoS, Hot Lab, and Thalia Marine—Viken Group can harness our unique expertise across superyachts, cruise ships and refits, meaning we are perfectly positioned to make our mark.”

No delivery timeline or shipyard partner has been confirmed.