Hurtigruten Norway Unveils its First Zero-Emission Cruise Ship

Hurtigruten Norway has revealed the plans for its first zero-emission ship ahead of its 130th anniversary.

According to a press release, the findings were presented alongside 12 maritime partners and SINTEF, a research institute.

‘Sea Zero’ was first announced over a year ago, but we didn’t know what technologies we would have access to in 2030. Hurtigruten Norway’s CEO, Hedda Felin, said she was focused on paving the way for new innovations and enhancing existing ones in alignment with sustainability goals.

In spite of the fact that some of these technologies are relatively advanced, they still need dedicated research and development if they are to be successfully implemented within the maritime environment. However, certain technologies require fundamental research and thorough testing since they are still in their infancy. Our groundbreaking future cruise ships will feature the most promising technologies identified through a rigorous feasibility study. Within a few years, we will deliver a ship that will surpass all others in energy efficiency and sustainability.”

Batteries will be mounted in the company’s future ships so that they can be recharged while in port.

There will be retractable sails with solar panels on the new ship, a counter-rotating propeller system, and retractable thrusters among other innovative features. A proactive hull cleaning program, air lubrication, and advanced hull coating are some of the additional technologies.

In order to create zero-emission ships, we are developing a very innovative cruise design concept. A streamlined shape, coupled with innovative hull and propulsion solutions, not only reduces energy demand but also improves passenger comfort. Henrik Burvang, research and innovation manager at VARD, the shipbuilding company behind the concept visuals, said, “We are developing new design tools and exploring new technologies for energy efficiency.”