Hurtigruten Names New Hybrid Expedition Ships
Hurtigruten has named its two new hybrid powered expedition ships at Kleven Yards. The first two ships have been named Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen after the two most influential Norwegian polar pioneers from the era when the company itself first started offering adventure travels.
The new ships are designed by Rolls-Royce, in collaboration with the Norwegian yacht designer Espen Øino. The 140 meter (460 feet) vessels will carry 530 passengers.
The company claims they are the world’s first expeditionary ships sailing fully electric with sustainable hybrid technology. Their battery system will enable them to sail with electric propulsion for 15-30 minutes. The technology, in combination with the construction of the hull and effective use of electricity on board, will reduce emissions from the ships by 20 percent.
The vessels will feature hull strengthening for polar operation and are adapted for operation along the Norwegian coast.
The interior of Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen will mirror the exterior waters and landscapes. Materials will be predominantly Norwegian and be inspired by nature with the innovative use of granite, oak, birch, wool, among other materials.
The ships will have large observation platforms on several decks for guests to get up-close to nature and wildlife. Over half of the cabins will have their own balcony, and around 20 percent of them will be suites.
The vessels will have three restaurants with menus reflecting local flavors and destinations. A special pool deck will include infinity pools, Jacuzzis and bars.
“On December 14, it will be exactly 105 years since Roald Amundsen became the first person in the world to plant his flag on the South Pole,” said Daniel Skjeldam, CEO, Hurtigruten. “It has been 128 years since Fridtjof Nansen skied across Greenland and it is 120 years since Richard With, Hurtigruten’s founder, first started exploration tourism in the Arctic. So what could be more natural and appropriate than to name our new ships after these inspiring trail blazers.”
The ships are due to be delivered in 2018 and 2019.