Dr. John Giannone, Storylines’ future onboard veterinarian, and his partner Dr. Jane Frederick recently visited Brodosplit Shipyard in Split, Croatia, to collaborate on the design of the pet spaces onboard the ship MV Narrative, the only vessel in the world to offer full pet facilities.

During their visit, Dr. Giannone and Dr. Frederick met with the ship’s design and construction team, including Dr. Paul Read (EVP ship construction & operations) and Doncho Milchev (site team manager), to provide expertise on the pet-friendly areas and to tour the shipyard and learn about the ship’s construction.

“In the course of our work, I gained invaluable insights into the complexities of building a ship. The intricate and time-consuming protocols involved in each step made it clear just how many years of dedication and expertise are required before the vessel is ready to set sail. It’s a process that few can truly comprehend until they witness the moment the lines are released and the ship finally leaves the dock for the first time,”  said Dr. Giannone.

MV Narrative will provide an array of state-of-the-art pet facilities, the world’s first of its kind. Storylines collaborated and consulted with the US Coast Guard and the U.S. Public Health Service on public health and sanitation regulations while considerable care also went into ensuring minimal disruption to other residents.  

Pet areas include an open deck area where pets can play and socialize in the fresh air, complete with cleaning stations and designated areas for animal waste management. The pet-friendly deck will seamlessly integrate with the ship’s black water system, ensuring hygiene and sustainability.

The dedicated pet facilities offer wet and dry playgrounds, a walking promenade, daycare, a kennel, and an engaging, themed space with pet beds, seating arrangements and breathtaking sea views. Additionally, it also features pet grooming services, a veterinary clinic with surgical capabilities, pet supplies, cleaning products and pharmaceuticals to ensure pets are well cared for at all times.

Pets will also be welcome in select public areas of the ship, such as the sports deck and outdoor cinema, where discreetly placed waste stations will be available. To maintain the comfort of all residents and meet regulations, certain spaces, like food preparation and serving areas, spa and gym as well as certain indoor and open deck spaces designed for specific activities, will remain pet-free zones.

“Our tour of the shipyard was such an eye-opening experience into the shipbuilding industry. I was totally impressed with the process and the details of the quality control that is in place. It was also a wonderful opportunity to meet the Storylines team in person,”  said Dr. Frederick.

For many future live-aboard residents, being separated from their pets is a major factor when considering purchasing a home at sea to travel the world. While there is an application process for a limited amount of pets allowed, Storylines sets a new standard by allowing pets to live aboard the vessel, enabling future residents to bring their beloved companions along for the adventure.

About Storylines
Storylines is a global residential community at sea that offers an unparalleled lifestyle of adventure, luxury, and community. MV Narrative is a new private residence ship designed to allow residents to travel the entire world while enjoying all the comforts of home, including comprehensive amenities for pet owners.