What
During a first-of-its-kind naming ceremony in Antarctica this fall, Hurtigruten will unveil its new battery-powered, 530-passenger expedition cruise ship: Roald Amundsen, named after the famed Northwest Passage explorer.
Why It Matters
Hurtigruten made waves last year when it announced that it would power its cruise ships with liquefied biogas, a fossil-free renewable gas produced from organic waste. Now, with the launch of Roald Amundsen, the line is doubling down on its position as one of the world’s greenest cruise companies, a move that will hopefully inspire others to consider eco-friendly travel initiatives.
Fast Facts
- Roald Amundsen’s naming ceremony is the first to be held in Antarctica
- During the ceremony, Hurtigruten and the ship’s yet-to-be-disclosed godmother will pay homage to explorer Roald Amundsen by christening the ship with a chunk of ice — the same ritual Amundsen used when christening his famed expedition ship, Maud, in 1917.
- The ship will cruise solely on battery power and will use battery packs to support low-emission engines.
- The ship will cut its carbon dioxide emissions by more than 20% when compared to cruise ships.
- The vessel is the first in the world to be equipped with batteries.
- Roald Amundsen will feature Scandinavian design and features including a high-tech Amundsen Science Center, observation decks, an infinity pool, a panoramic sauna, a wellness center, three restaurants, bars, an Explorer Lounge and aft-facing suites with private outdoor hot tubs.
- The ship’s maiden season will include expedition itineraries along the Norwegian coast before traversing the Northwest Passage. It will then spend the 2019-2020 season in Antarctica.
What They Are Saying
“We can think of no better place to name the truly unique Roald Amundsen than the waters of Antarctica – where no ship has ever been christened before,” said Daniel Skjeldam, CEO for Hurtigruten.
The Details
Hurtigruten
www.hurtigruten.com
