Hurtigruten names hybrid explorer ships

Norwegian exploration travel company, Hurtigruten, has decided to name the first two new hybrid powered expedition ships “Roald Amundsen” and “Fridtjof Nansen” after the two most influential Norwegian polar pioneers.

The new ships have been designed by Rolls-Royce, in collaboration with the recognised Norwegian yacht designer Espen Øino, and are due to be delivered in 2019. There are also plans for an additional for two additional vessels.

“It is exactly 105 years since Roald Amundsen became the first person in the world to plant his flag on the South Pole; 128 years since Fridtjof Nansen skied across Greenland; and 120 years since Richard With, Hurtigruten’s founder, first started exploration tourism in the Arctic. What could be more natural and appropriate than to name our new ships after these inspiring trailblazers,” said Hurtigruten CEO Daniel Skjeldam.

State-of-the-art Scandinavian design

With the “Roald Amundsen” and “Fridtjof Nansen”, Hurtigruten also sets a new standard in interior design and on-board customer experience. The aura of the period of the great exploration expeditions is to be recreated within the framework of modernity and premium quality and comfort.  

The interior will mirror the breath-taking waters and landscapes where the expedition ships sail. Materials will be predominantly Norwegian and inspired by nature and Scandinavian style with an innovative approach to the use of granite, oak and birch, and wool, amongst other materials.

The ships will have large observation platforms on several decks for guests to get up-close to nature and wildlife. A majority of cabins will have their own balcony, whilst a small number will be suites.

The vessels will have three restaurants with menus inspired by local flavours and destinations. A special pool deck will include infinity pools, Jacuzzis and bars. 

Sustainable and soundless sailings

The new Hurtigruten exploration ships “Roald Amundsen” and “Fridtjof Nansen” will showcase the very latest in innovative environmentally friendly technology. New hybrid technology will make sailing with electric propulsion for 15-30 minutes a reality. However; the total reduction in fuel consumption and hence CO2-emissions, is the main gain. 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. 

Skjeldam added; “These ground-breaking expedition ships will revolutionise adventure travel at sea. We are combining Hurtigruten’s more than 120-years know-how with cutting-edge technology and design, and a strong commitment to sustainability, to offer the modern-day adventure traveller an unprecedented experience.” 

2018 and 2019 itineraries for “Roald Amundsen” - Hurtigruten's first next-generation expedition ship - will be announced in November.

MV “Roald Amundsen” and MV “Fridtjof Nansen”

• First of Hurtigruten’s new class of specially constructed exploration ships for voyages in polar waters.
• Designed by Rolls Royce and are constructed by Kleven Yards.
• Strengthened hulls for traversing ice
• The ships will feature innovative Scandinavian designs, large observation platforms, infinity pools – and several other yet to be disclosed expedition features.
• Number of passengers: 530
• Number of cabins: 265
• Dimensions (exterior): Length 140 meters, width 23,6 meters, height 29 meters
• Depth: 5,3 meters
• Adapted also for the service route along the Norwegian coast 

More information about the hybrid technology

• Makes fully electric propulsion an option for shorter periods of time
• New battery technology contributes to a significant reduction of CO2 from ships
• New solutions will contribute to a 20 percent reduction of fuel consumption. In total, the two new ships will have a reduced CO2 emission of 6400 metric tons per year compared to traditional ships. In perspective, this is the same amount of yearly emissions created by 5540 new cars.