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Kleven begins building Hurtigruten's 'revolutionary' hybrid battery technology ship

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Hurtigruten's Daniel Skjeldam, right, officially starts the construction. With him is Kleven ceo Ståle Rasmussen
With the touch of a button, Hurtigruten ceo Daniel Skjeldam officially started the construction of Roald Amundsen, which the company touts as 'the greenest cruise ship the world has ever seen.'

Launching in 2018, it will be the first expedition cruise ship powered by hybrid battery technology. The steel section begun today will become one of the main engine compartments housing the revolutionary hybrid engines.

During the ceremony at Kleven Yards in Ulsteinvik, Norway, Skjeldam called it 'a historic day not only for Hurtigruten, but for the global maritime industry. We celebrate the construction start of the first ship in a new generation that will change expedition travel forever.'

The hybrid engines will reduce fuel consumption substantially and allow for periods of completely emission-free sailing. With a number of other groundbreaking technical solutions throughout the ship, Roald Amundsen will be the most advanced and environmental friendly expedition ship ever built, according to Skjeldam.

The ship will feature extensive inside and outdoor explorer decks, an immersive Activity Center, three restaurants, a fitness and wellness center, an aft top deck pool bar with two Jacuzzis and an infinity pool, plus other features to be revealed.

More than half of the 265 all-outside cabins have balconies, while a number of Expedition Suites come with private outdoor Jacuzzis.

Roald Amundsen's 2018/2019 inaugural season includes expedition voyages to Antarctica and the Chilean fjords.