The entire world is looking at ways to become more energy efficient and green in every way. As Atmospheric carbon dioxide levels reach record highs and the effects of climate change continue to destroy earth’s natural beauty, it only makes sense that the cruise industry is trying to go carbon neutral. With that goal in mind, Hurtigruten, an expedition and cruise ship operator from Norway has announced their concept ship. The world’s most energy-efficient cruise ship.
Hurtigruten with a consortium of 12 maritime partners and research institute SINTEF announced their concept ship. It will be the first zero-emission ship with a hope to set sail on the Norwegian coast in 2030. Taking over for one of the many ships which currently transport mail and people between remote places in Norway.
Although this ship is just a concept, it follows Hurtigruten’s sustainability model. They already have zero single use plastic aboard their ships. In addition, Hurtigruten is one of the only operators of hybrid electric ships. Even operating in Antarctica, Hurtigruten rin is breaking barriers around the world
Hurtigruten’s CEO Hedda Felin promises, “We are committed to delivering a ship that surpasses all others, in terms of energy efficiency and sustainability, within just a few years.”
The new ship concept promises Zero emissions and maximum innovation following a rigorous feasibility study. The new ship will bring some of the most promising technologies today and of the future.
Zero emission cruise ship
The concept of this zero emissions cruise ship is actually really cool. Although the first ship may be small, the possibilities will continue to grow and technology changes and enhances.
The ship may include wind and solar sails. The current design includes three retractable 165 feet autonomous sails. The sails will enhance the aerodynamics of the ship. They will retract and extend to pull in air currents added propulsion. Best yet, the sails should be covered in solar panels. The sail will add over 16,000 square feet of solar power cells to the ship, generating more power for the ship’s engines. This will become ever more useful above the arctic circle and Antarctic which features near 24 hours of sunlight.
The ship is is modeled at 443 feet in length and is set to have 270 cabins for 500 passengers. This is a similar size to nearly all other ships in the Hurtigruten fleet. Also making it compliant to IAATO standards for Antarctica, meaning this ship could someday take people on BOGO trips to Antarctica. The ship also has a large cargo hold and the ability to transport cars, which means it can easily replace one of the ferries in Norwegian Coastal Express.
Bottom Line
The new zero emission Hurtigruten ship brings a lot of cool ideas and should be sailing in 2030. If you want to learn more about this new ship, check out the hurtigruten’s website. Hurtigruten will bring the world’s first carbon neutral, zero emission, sustainable cruise ships to the world with a primary focus on the Norwegian Coastal routes to begin. With a heavy focus on sustainability, this ship fits perfectly in their fleet. Have you been on a Hurtigruten trip or do you want to plan on? Let’s connect, as I work at Scott & Thomas Travel with a heavy focus on expedition travel.
