New generation of Hurtigruten exploration ships to be:
- Named after legends of polar exploration Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen
- Characterised by pioneering Scandinavian design
- The world’s first expeditionary ships sailing fully electric with sustainable hybrid technology
Combining Hurtigruten’s 120 years history with cutting edge technology and design and the company’s strong philosophy and views on sustainability, Hurtigruten have announced that they have ordered two new hybrid powered expedition ships. These extraordinary vessels will be delivered in 2018 and 2019.
The two most influential Norwegian polar pioneers from the era when the company began have received the honour of lending their name to these incredible ships. The first, Roald Amundsen, is an iconic figure in history being the first man to plant a flag on the South Pole and the second, Fridtjof Nansen, skied across Greenland 128 years ago.
Damian Perry CEO of Cox and Kings, specialist operator of Bentours and GSA of Hurtigruten said “I am so thrilled that Bentours and Hurtigruten are in a strategic alliance with shared values and shared purpose to deliver extraordinary travel experience and revolutionise the way people explore.”
The state of the art Scandinavian design can attributed to the collaboration of design from Rolls-Royce and the famous Norwegian yacht designer Espen Øino. The direction of design has revolved around modernity, prime quality and comfort. The interior of the new vessel is inspired by nature and will remind travellers of the picturesque landscapes that surround them. Clean, fresh and simplistic Scandinavian design will be reached with natural and predominantly Norwegian material.
Bentours along with Hurtigruten don’t take guests cruising, they take them exploring. “The new vessels will enhance the experience of our customers. Bentours and Hurtigruten together are 100% customer focused and understand travelling to such memorising and unique destinations requires that special and tailor-made touch” said Perry.
Getting up close and personal to nature is the motivation behind such expeditions. This is assisted with large observation platforms on several decks for guests. As well as six out of ten cabins will have their own balcony; two out of ten will be suites.
The vessels will have three restaurants with menus reflecting local flavours and destinations. A special pool deck will include infinity pools, jacuzzis and bars.
The new vessels “Roald Amundsen” and “Fridtjof Nansen” will showcase the latest environmentally forward technology. With a total reduction in fuel consumption and hence CO2-emissions, assisted by the construction of the hull and effective use of electricity on board, will reduce emissions from the ships by 20 percent. This will receive an outcome of electric propulsion for 15-30 minutes a reality and substantially longer for ships to come, incredibly benefiting the environment and for the guests on board as they know the superb nature around them is being protected.
Now sailing perfectly silently along the ice edge in the Arctic or Antarctica or along the coast of the Amazon has now been made even better by the environmental leader in Arctic exploration, Hurtigruten.
More information provided:
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.
More information on Hurtigruten and the Hurtigruten fleet
Hurtigruten is the original Norwegian coastal route since 1893. The company brings goods, local passengers and tourists to 34 ports along the unique Norwegian coast between Bergen and Kirkenes – every day of the year. In the Arctic, Hurtigruten now offers voyages to Greenland; to Iceland; around Spitsbergen; and from 2017 to Arctic Canada. In the southern hemisphere, Hurtigruten takes guests to the waters around Antarctica; along both coasts of South America; and from 2017, to the mighty Amazon rainforest.
For live availability, instant confirmation and best available rates contact our Hurtigruten team direct on 1800 487 844 or hurtigruten@bentours.com.au
SOURCE: Bentours