Norwegian cruise line Hurtigruten is investing in ships with a hybrid engine developed by Rolls Royce. The ships, constructed at Kleven Yards in Norway, are expected to launch in 2018 and 2019. The launch of these hybrid ships will be an important milestone in Hurtigruten’s goal of sailing fully electric ships to the Arctic and Antarctic.
The ships will have the ability to switch between fossil fuel and electric power when they are traveling through environmentally sensitive areas. “To be able to sail using only electrical power is not only a great benefit for the environment, but it will also enhance the impact of experiencing nature for our guests. Picture sailing into a fjord silently, without any form of emissions,” says CEO of Hurtigruten, Daniel Skjeldam.
The 20,000-ton hybrid ships are constructed for voyages in polar waters and can accommodate up to 600 guests. The first ship set to launch in 2018 will be equipped with an auxiliary electric engine which will reduce fuel consumption by approximately 20 percent, which amounts to more than 3000 metric tons of CO2 per year. The second ship, which launches in 2019, will be a full-fledged hybrid engine that can power the entire ship and cross-greater distances.
The 2018 and 2019 itineraries for “Roald Amundsen,” Hurtigruten’s first hybrid expedition ship, have been announced; you can now book your 16 or 18 night stay by visiting http://www.cruisemapper.com/ships/MS-Roald-Amundsen-1455.