Suntech Group, whose UK distributor is Real Sunlight Ltd, has supplied three of its sunlight simulators for the 34,728gt
Birka Paradise cruise liner.
The three units, totalling 100kW in output, are mounted on steel railings above a large glazed-in sundeck aboard the vessel, which travels between Stockholm and the Åland Islands.
There are a pool, jacuzzis, a bar and grill, a dance floor and sun loungers, with the sunlight environment - called Paradise Beach and capable of accommodating 80 people per hour - being marketed as the vessel’s main attraction.
The simulators are claimed to replicate 100 per cent natural sunlight, recreating the sun's entire light spectrum as well as heat. However, the company has kept the UV dosage to a minimum to avoid possible health risks.
They are suitable for a wide range of businesses - such as spas, health clubs, hotels, theme parks and leisure facilities - and can either complement an existing facility or be designed into a custom built space such as a Zen-like spa environment or a tropical beach.
Each simulator is manufactured to suit the available space, with the smallest installation providing 12sq m of sunlight (4-6 sunbathers), and the largest to date covering 140sq m (60-80).
The control system allows a choice of settings and individual timings for sunrise, full sunlight and sunset.
Multiple sensory stimulation is also available, including a range of surroundings, a gentle breeze generated by a special ventilation system, waves, jungle sounds and soft sand.