New Hurtigruten Ships To Be First Hybrid Powered Cruise Ships

​Hurtigruten’s pair of new 20,000 gross tonne cruise ships launching in 2018 and 2019 will be the first cruise ships in the world which will utilize hybrid power using a battery system which will reduce fuel consumption by approximately 20 percent.

​The two new ships have been specifically designed to cruise the Arctic and Antarctic and will become the world’s first expedition cruise ships to use the hybrid propulsion system. The new technology has been developed by Rolls Royce and Bellona, a non-profit organisation that works to address climate challenges.

 “The future of shipping is, without a doubt, silent and emission free,” said CEO of Hurtigruten, Daniel Skjelda. “We will use our new expeditionary ships as groundbreakers for this new technology and show the world that hybrid propulsion on large ships is possible.”
 
“To be able to sail using only electrical power is not only a great benefit for the environment, but it will also enhance the impact of experiencing nature for the guests. Picture sailing into a fjord silently without any form of emissions.”