Hurtigruten, Norway's leading cruise line specializing in exploration voyages, is making history today with the launch of its first eco-friendly vessel: the MS Roald Amundsen. This hybrid exploration ship is the first in the world to sail the planet's most spectacular waters with innovative technology, establishing itself as a leader in the cruise industry.
According to Daniel Skjeldam, CEO of Hurtigruten: “This opens a new chapter in maritime history. The MS Roald Amundsen is the first cruise ship equipped with batteries, something that was considered impossible just a few years ago. With the introduction of the MS Roald Amundsen, Hurtigruten is setting a new standard not only for cruise ships, but for the entire shipping industry.”
The MS Roald Amundsen, named after the Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen who led the first expedition through the Northwest Passage, sets sail today. This vessel uses batteries to power its low-emission engines, which will reduce CO2 emissions by more than 20% compared to other ships of the same size thanks to its hybrid propulsion system.
It is characterized by its modern Scandinavian-style design and by having spaces such as the high-tech Amundsen Science Center, spacious observation decks, panoramic sauna, wellness center, three restaurants, bars, Explorer Lounge, the largest LED screen in the cruise industry at over 17 meters high, an infinity pool with two jacuzzis and suites with private outdoor hot tubs.
“The MS Roald Amundsen is designed and built with sustainability in every detail. In addition to green technology, it is the world’s first cruise ship designed to be free of single-use plastics, so sustainability will also be an integral part of the guest experience. From the carefully selected Hurtigruten Expedition Team to the industry’s first Science Centre, we will show guests the areas we explore in greater depth,” says Daniel Skjeldam.
This innovative vessel will carry out expedition itineraries in its first season along the Norwegian coast, Svalbard and Greenland, North and South America and Antarctica, not forgetting the Northwest Passage, following in the footsteps of the famous expedition made by the explorer of the same name, Roald Amundsen.
MS Roald Amundsen has been built at the Kleven shipyard alongside its sister ship MS Fridtjof Nansen, which will debut in 2020.
According to Asbjørn Vattøy, Kleven's project manager: “In the world of shipbuilding, some projects stand out. This is one of them. The MS Roald Amundsen is not only one of the most advanced expedition cruise ships in the world, but also a top-quality cruise ship with a number of innovative solutions. We are very proud of the ship, which is the result of a tremendous team effort from the company's employees and our subcontractors.”
This vessel left the Kleven shipyard captained by the experienced Kai Albrigtsen, who was at the helm for its maiden voyage along the Norwegian coast. “Captain a new ship and bring it from the shipyard is always an honor. With the MS Roald Amundsen, a green pioneer, it makes this moment truly special for me and the rest of the crew. I am very impressed with the ship, the technology, and the way it handles. Now, we are all looking forward to welcoming the first guests on board and creating lifelong memories,” he commented.
