3 July, 2019 by Juan Carlos Díaz Lorenzo

Hurtigruten Launches Hybrid Ship “Roald Amundsen”

Hurtigruten, the leading Norwegian cruise line in exploration travel, makes history today with the launch of its first eco-friendly ship named “Roald Amundsen.” This hybrid exploration vessel is the first in the world to navigate the most spectacular waters on the planet with innovative technology, proclaiming itself a leader in the cruise sector.

Named in honor of the Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen (1872-1928) who led the first expedition to traverse the Northwest Passage, it begins sailing today. This ship uses batteries to support 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.

It features a modern Scandinavian design and includes spaces such as the high-tech Amundsen Science Center, spacious observation decks, a panoramic sauna, a wellness center, three restaurants, bars, an Explorer Lounge, the largest LED screen in the cruise sector at over 17 meters tall, an infinity pool with two jacuzzis, and suites with private outdoor hot tubs.

This innovative ship will undertake expedition itineraries along the Norwegian coast, Svalbard and Greenland, North and South America, and Antarctica in its first season, not forgetting the Northwest Passage, following in the wake of the famous expedition led by the explorer it honors.

The ship has been built at the Kleven shipyard, where its twin “Fridtjof Nansen” is also taking shape, set to debut in 2020. According to Asbjørn Vattøy, project director at Kleven, “some projects stand out in the world of shipbuilding, and this is one of them. The 'Roald Amundsen' is not only one of the most advanced expedition cruise ships in the world, but it is also a first-class vessel with a series of innovative solutions. We are very proud of the ship, which is the result of tremendous teamwork from the company’s employees and our subcontractors.”