Thanks to their advanced shore power connection technology, SeaDream can turn off their engines and reduce emissions in ports that offer this infrastructure.
During a 14-hour stopover this week in Bergen, Norway, the SeaDream II connected to the local power grid for the first time, reducing emissions to zero.
“This is an important milestone for us and a new step on our journey towards more sustainable travel. Visiting some of the world’s most beautiful destinations comes with responsibility,” said Andreas Brynestad of SeaDream Yacht Club.
“We are pleased to see more ports following the example of the Port of Bergen and other pioneers in offering onshore energy facilities. It is a benefit for us, for local communities, and for the environment,” Brynestad added.
The SeaDream II was upgraded in 2023 to allow connection to shore power, while the SeaDream I successfully completed its upgrade during a stay at the Naval Rocha shipyard in Lisbon, Portugal, in early 2024.
This makes SeaDream Yacht Club the first luxury cruise company to equip its entire fleet with the ability to connect to shore power.
“We are ready to connect wherever the facilities exist, and we have been for some time. The more ports that offer this possibility, the greater the positive impact we can generate together,” Brynestad said.
This summer, SeaDream is exploring Norway's spectacular fjords. By connecting to shore power from clean hydroelectric sources, the yacht reduces its emissions to zero while in port. The recent upgrade to shore power represents the latest step in a decades-long commitment to sustainability in luxury travel.
SeaDream yacht itineraries are optimized to cruise at lower speeds, which significantly reduces fuel consumption and emissions compared to traditional cruising.
SeaDream was the first luxury cruise line to ban the use of heavy fuel oil (HFO), a cheap but highly polluting fuel. Since 2013, the company has powered its yachts with lighter, less polluting fuels, significantly reducing emissions.
Over a decade ago, SeaDream was also the first cruise line to offer a fully plant-based menu. Today, it offers the largest selection of plant-based options at sea, complementing this offering with more local sourcing and a significant reduction in food waste, thus contributing to a smaller carbon footprint.
SeaDream Yacht Club also pioneered the elimination of unnecessary single-use plastics across its entire fleet, replacing them with sustainable alternatives or removing them altogether. All guests receive a reusable glass water bottle, which they can refill at water stations located throughout the yacht, thus reducing the need for plastic bottles. In addition, all suites and cabins feature luxury organic and biodegradable bath products from Elm Organics Norway.
All SeaDream voyages include late departures or full nights in port, allowing for a deeper cultural immersion and generating greater economic value for local communities.
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