Hurtigruten Names Their Ground-breaking Hybrid Expedition Ships

“On December 14th, it will be exactly 105 years since Roald Amundsen became the first person in the world to plant his flag on the South Pole,” notes Daniel Skjeldam, CEO, Hurtigruten. “It has been 128 years since Fridtjof Nansen skied across Greenland and it is 120 years since Richard With, Hurtigruten’s founder, first started exploration tourism in the Arctic. So what could be more natural and appropriate than to name our new ships after these inspiring trailblazers.”

The new ships are designed by Rolls-Royce, in collaboration with the recognized Norwegian yacht designer Espen Øino.

State-of-the-art Scandinavian design

With “Roald Amundsen” and “Fridtjof Nansen”, Hurtigruten also sets a new standard with respect to interior design and on-board customer experience. The interior will mirror the exterior waters and landscapes. Materials will be predominantly Norwegian and be inspired by nature with the innovative use of granite, oak, birch, wool, among other materials. All of which will be characterized by an innovative Scandinavian approach to interior design.

The ships will have large observation platforms on several decks for guests to get up-close to nature and wildlife. Six out of ten cabins will have their own balcony; two out of ten will be suites.

The vessels will have three restaurants with menus reflecting local flavours and destinations. A special pool deck will include infinity pools, Jacuzzis and bars.

“These ground-breaking expedition ships will revolutionize adventure travel at sea,” adds Skeldjam. “We are combining Hurtigruten’s 120-years of know-how with cutting-edge technology and design, and a strong commitment to sustainability, to offer the modern-day adventure traveller unprecedented experiences.”

Sustainable and soundless sailings

The new Hurtigruten exploration ships “Roald Amundsen” and “Fridtjof Nansen” will showcase the very latest in innovative environmentally friendly technology. New hybrid technology will make sailing with electric propulsion for 15-30 minutes a reality and substantially longer for ships to come. However, the total reduction in fuel consumption and hence CO2-emissions, is the main gain. The technology, in combination with the construction of the hull and effective use of electricity on board, will reduce emissions from the ships by 20 percent.

Hurtigruten is a world leader in exploration travel and the largest operator in Antarctica, sailing to the most remote destinations as well as year-round along Norway's coast. The company’s fleet of intimate ships, which each carry 100 to 646 guests, allows travelers to enjoy the scenery and culture of the destination in a relaxed atmosphere. Additional information, brochures and reservations can be obtained from travel agents or Hurtigruten's website, www.hurtigruten.us; and by phone at +1 (866) 552-0371.