Hurtigruten Norway unveiled plans for its first zero-emission ship, just weeks before its 130th anniversary. Initially announced in March 2022, under project name ‘Sea Zero,’ the initiative has now revealed early concept plans and renderings for the world’s most energy-efficient cruise ship following its first year of research. Hurtigruten Norway presented the findings alongside its consortium of 12 maritime partners and research institute SINTEF, all joined in the pursuit of achieving emission-free marine travel.
“Following a rigorous feasibility study, we have pinpointed the most promising technologies for our groundbreaking future cruise ships. We are committed to delivering a ship that surpasses all others in terms of energy efficiency and sustainability within just a few years,” said Hedda Felin, CEO of Hurtigruten Norway.
With 0.1% of ships worldwide currently using zero-emission technology, Hurtigruten Norway’s project aims to drastically improve the cruise industry’s sustainability record and future of travel. The cruise line’s future, electric ships will be equipped with batteries that are charged with renewable energy while in port. Combining 60-megawatt batteries with wind technology, the ship is expected to feature numerous firsts that do not exist on ships today, including retractable sails with solar panels, artificial intelligence manoeuvring, contra-rotating propellers, and multiple retractable thrusters.
