Hurtigruten orders a third hybrid-power expedition cruise ship

Sister of Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen

'This groundbreaking vessel will take our guests to some of the most spectacular areas of our planet, in a more sustainable and environmentally friendly way than ever seen before,' Hurtigruten CEO Daniel Skjeldam said.

The new ship’s design, construction, engineering and advanced technology will be based on Hurtigruten’s two next-generation ships, Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen, currently under construction at the Norwegian yard. Like its sisters, the third ship will carry 530 passengers.

The delivery of the first two vessels was delayed due to challenges at Kleven Verft, which was taken over by a Hurtigruten entity in June. Roald Amundsen, originally scheduled for July 2018, is now expected in May 2019.

Substantially larger battery packs

Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen will be the world’s first hybrid battery-powered cruise ships, able to operate for short stints on silent, emission-free fuel cells. Among the third ship's innovative features are substantially larger battery packs to make expedition voyages even more sustainable.

'We are grateful for the confidence Hurtigruten shows us by signing a memorandum of understanding for a third, advanced expedition vessel with green technology combined with premium guest comfort. This is a confirmation of our unique skills and facilities,' Kleven CEO Olav Nakken said.

The order, subject to certain contingencies, is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2019.