Norway’s Hurtigruten launches first battery-powered cruise ship
02 Jul 2019
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MS Roald Amundsen, the world’s first cruise ship propelled partially by battery power, is set to head out from northern Norway on its maiden voyage, cruise operator Hurtigruten said on Monday.
The hybrid expedition cruise ship can take 500 passengers and is designed to sail in harsh climate waters.
The state of the art vessel features new and environmentally sustainable hybrid technology that will reduce fuel consumption and is a technology demonstrator that shows hybrid propulsion on large ships is possible.
While the engines run mainly on marine gasoil, the ship’s battery pack enables it to run solely on batteries for around 45 to 60 minutes under ideal conditions, reports quoting Hurtigruten chief executive Daniel Skjeldam said.
The company estimates that the battery pack will reduce fuel consumption and save about 20 per cent in carbon dioxide emissions, compared to ships operating solely on marine gasoil.
MS Roald Amundsen is the first of two hybrid ships Hurtigruten will add to its fleet over the next few years, cutting emissions by sailing with electrical propulsion. “Hybrid technology, combined with the advanced construction of the hull and effective use of electricity on board will reduce fuel consumption and CO2-emissions on the ships by 20 per cent.”
The two ships also represent the largest single investment in the history of Hurtigruten.
“The future of shipping will be silent and emission free. MS Roald Amundsen will lead the way towards an even more sustainable way of traveling. Sailing on electrical power is not only a great benefit for the environment, but it will also enhance the impact of experiencing nature for the guests,” Hurtigruten stated in a release.
“The ship will be specially constructed for voyages in polar waters and serve as a comfortable base camp at sea – bringing adventurers from all over the world to the most spectacular destinations in the most sustainable way,” the release added .
MS Roald Amundsen is named after Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen who, in 1911, became the first man to cross Antarctica and reach the South Pole.
The ship features two-level indoor/outdoor observation deck wrapped around the top of the ships’ raked bow. The deck also houses the Amundsen Science Center, which is packed with state of the art technology and high tech gadgets such as touch screens and science equipment.
The flexible venue will feature lecture spaces, a small library, and speciality areas for workshops in photography, biology, and more. The area, featuring large windows, will also be the onboard HQ for Hurtigruten’s handpicked expedition team.
The ship’s interior represents a rich and comfortable interior design that uses Scandinavian materials from nature, such as granite, oak, birch and wool to create relaxed and stylish cabins and public areas. All cabins are outside, and 50 per cent will have private balconies while aft suites will feature private outdoor hot tubs with spectacular views.
MS Roald Amundsen will feature three restaurants - Aune Main Dining, Fredheim and Lindstrøm - all inspired by Nordic and Norwegian heritage.
Every piece of art on board will be handpicked by HM Queen Sonja of Norway’s art foundation - the Queen Sonja Print Award.
The cruise ship also offers a complimentary `Young Explorer’ programme on selected Hurtigruten ships for curious and active youth aged 7-13 years of age year-round.
