The 530-passenger hybrid-propulsion vessels are due for delivery from Norway's Kleven in 2018 and 2019.
'December 14 is exactly 105 years since Roald Amundsen became the first person in the world to plant the flag at the South Pole. It is 128 years since Fridtjof Nansen skied across Greenland, and it is 120 years since our founder, Richard With, started with adventure tourism in the Arctic. What could be more appropriate and natural than to christen ships by these pioneers?' Skjeldam said.
The vessels are designed by Rolls-Royce working together with the noted Norwegian yacht designer Espen Øino. The overall concept aims to recreate the era of the great voyages of discovery in a modern framework of quality and comfort, without pretension. Materials will be Norwegian and inspired by nature, with an emphasis on granite, oak, birch and wool.
Major observation platforms on several decks will facilitate nature and wildlife-viewing. A pool deck includes pools, jacuzzis and bars. Each ship's three restaurants will have menus featuring locally sourced ingredients and recipes.
Sixty percent of the accommodations will have balconies and 20% will be suites.
'We do not offer cruises. We offer adventure,' Skjeldam said. That's why it's important that the ambiance enhances the nature experiences. Travelers can think of the Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen as floating base camps, he added.
The ships' hybrid technology incorporates battery technology that will make it possible to sail for 15 to 20 minutes at a time on battery-generated electric power.
In combination with an optimized hull design and energy efficiency on board, this is expected to reduce fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions by 20%.
Copyright © 2024. All rights reserved. Seatrade, a trading name of Informa Markets (UK) Limited. Add Seatrade Cruise News to your Google News feed.
