Newbuilds to be the first expedition vessels to operate on electric power in polar waters
By
Rebecca Gibson |
Hurtigruten’s two new polar expedition cruise ships are to operate using hybrid technology designed by Rolls-Royce and Bellona, a non-profit organisation working to fight climate challenges.
Designed by Rolls-Royce, the 530-passenger ships will be built by Norway’s Kleven Yards and will be the first expedition vessels to be able to operate solely on electric power for 15-30 minutes in the Arctic and Antarctic.
The first ship will debut in July 2018 with an auxiliary electric engine, while the second will enter service in July 2019 with a fully fledged hybrid engine that can power the entire ship for longer periods of time and distances, into fjords and environmentally sensitive areas.
“This is an historic day for Norwegian shipping and for Norwegian maritime technology,” said Fredric Hauge, founder and president of Bellona. “Battery-powered propulsion in ships this size shows that batteries are onboard to stay. This represents a huge reduction in emissions from shipping, and it is only the beginning.”
When combined with efficient onboard electrical systems and an ice-strengthened hull, the hybrid propulsion systems will reduce fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions by 20%. This amounts to more than 3,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide per year.
“The future of shipping is, without a doubt, silent and emission free,” said Daniel Skjeldam, CEO of Hurtigruten. “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, today. 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.”
Hurtigruten’s newbuilds represent the largest singular investments in the company’s history. The contract includes an option for two more ships.