From 2021, the fully refurbished Finnmarken will explore handpicked destinations along the rugged Norwegian coastline on year-round expedition cruises.
Already from 2020, travelers on Hurtigruten’s original Norwegian coastal voyage will get the opportunity to experience a new Finnmarken.
Low emission engines, shore power and battery pack capability
'We will transform her into a full-fledged premium expedition cruise ship, with all the comforts, facilities and expertise you need for creating a perfect adventure,' Hurtigruten CEO Daniel Skjeldam said.
The keel-to-mast upgrade will bring several new features. Some of the highlights include substantially upgraded, low-emission engines, complying with all known and upcoming regulations (Tier III), installation of shore power connectivity and preparation for future battery pack installation.
Fully refurbished cabins, new suites
All cabins and suites will be fully refurbished. Using natural Scandinavian materials such as granite, oak, birch and wool, this will create a relaxed and stylish look and feel, and add to the premium on-board experience. On Deck 8 aft, in the current gym and sauna area, five roomy suites with large panoramic windows will be added.
Four new restaurants
Four new restaurants will be installed. These include Hurtigruten's new expedition cruise main restaurant, Aune. Social and and informal, with the use of natural elements in design and interiors, Restaurant Aune will serve breakfast, lunch and dinner featuring Scandinavian dishes.
Restaurant Lindstrøm, a specialty restaurant named after the favorite chef of the Norwegian polar heroes, will provide fine dining with strong roots in traditional Norwegian cooking that are contrasted with modern cuisine.
The informal eatery Fredheim, named after a legendary 1920s hunting station in Svalbard that sheltered adventurers from around the world, will be added on Deck 7. In addition, Deck 8 will gain a new grill venue.
Signature Science Center
In other changes, Hurtigruten’s signature Science Center will be found on Deck 4. Packed with the latest technology and high-tech gadgets such as touch screens, science equipment and other interactive features, this edutainment area will also be the on-board headquarters of the ship's expedition team.
A new, larger wellness area will be added on Deck 7, and includes a lounge, treatment rooms, gym and panoramic sauna.
The outdoor pool area will be fully refurbished, the shop expanded, and Finnmarken's car deck will be replaced by a launching area for exploration boats and other expedition equipment.
The ship's extensive art collection will be preserved during the refurbishment, which will take place in the first quarter of 2020.
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