The month-long project will upgrade all cabins, suites and passenger areas.
'We are thrilled to give the ship named after our founder a standard Richard With himself would be proud of,' Hurtigruten CEO Daniel Skjeldam said.
Switch from diesel to fuel cells and LNG
This is the first of the two-step upgrade that will transform the custom-built polar-class vessel by replacing its diesel propulsion with large battery packs and LNG engines. Similar work is planned for at least five other Hurtigruten ships.
'Hurtigruten is strongly committed to being the frontrunner in green change. As we introduce the ships on the Norwegian coast, they set new standards for the industry to follow,' Skjeldam said.
Other Richard With technical upgrades include the installation of shore power facilities and a new air conditioning system.
Larger suites, bigger views, new Activity Center
All staterooms and suites will be fully upgraded to match Hurtigruten’s new standards. On Deck 6, a number of cabins will be merged into 14 larger suites, some with big bay windows for spectacular views.
In addition to getting a full makeover, the aft-facing Torget main restaurant will be fitted with deck-to-ceiling windows.
The Brygga bistro found on other Hurtigruten ships will be replaced by an upgraded and larger arcade and a new Activity Center, which will act as the on-board headquarters for Hurtigruten’s expedition team.
Fine dining and a popular bakery
Kysten Fine Dining, serving innovative dishes based on high quality, local produce such as fresh-caught seafood, will appear slightly different from other Hurtigruten ships, and will open for a la carte lunch.
Deck 7 will gain Hurtigruten's informal and hugely popular Multe Bakery, serving freshly baked cakes and pastries, smørbrød (traditional Norwegian open-faced sandwiches), smoothies, a large assortment of local ice cream with homemade toppings, premium coffee, organic herbal tea and premium juices.
On the same deck, the gym will be enlarged, the sauna upgraded and two aft-facing outdoor hot tubs will be added.
Improved observation lounge, new lecture halls
The forward-facing Explorer Lounge and Panorama Bar will emerge with a new ambience and the best views on the ship, with front-row seats to observe the Northern Lights, Midnight Sun, wildlife and nature.
Two new lecture halls will be added forward on Deck 4, in conjunction to the open Kompass information and shopping area, selling outdoor clothing and other items.
Richard With operates Hurtigruten's classic Bergen–Kirkenes coastal voyage.
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