The new Hurtigruten hybrid MS Roald Amundsen has set sail for the artic and is becoming the first battery-powered cruise ship. When using its battery packs, it enables the vessel to move silently through sensitive wildlife areas without a trace!
“This opens a new chapter in maritime history. MS Roald Amundsen is the first cruise ship equipped with batteries, something deemed impossible just a few years back. With the introduction of MS Roald Amundsen, Hurtigruten sets a new standard not only for cruising but for the entire shipping industry to follow,” said Hurtigruten CEO Daniel Skjeldam.
“The MS Roald Amundsen is designed and built with sustainability at the core of every little detail. In addition to the green technology, this makes Roald Amundsen the first cruise ship in the world designed to be single-use plastic-free. Sustainability will also be an integral part of the guest experience. From the hand-picked Hurtigruten Expedition Team to the industry-first Science Center, we will give the guests a deeper understanding of the areas we explore,” added Skjeldam.
Hurtigruten Captain Kai Albrigtsen was at the helm as the battery-powered cruise ship MS Roald Amundsen left the Kleven yard for her maiden voyage along the Norwegian coast. “The Roald Amundsen is a ‘Green Pioneer’ and to captain a new ship and bring her from the shipyard is always an honour,” said Albrigtsen.
Roald Amundsen can take 500 passengers and is designed to sail in harsh climate waters. Named after the Norwegian explorer who navigated the Northwest Passage in 1903-1906 and was first to reach the South Pole in 1911.
Daniel Nerhagen, TDoS Partner & Project Director for MS Roald Amundsen says, “The essential focus in the design for Hurtigruten’s new cruise ship has been sustainable and timeless design throughout the whole ship. With only functional solutions and natural true Scandinavian material, the guests are given the very best sustainable experience at sea. “
Tillberg Design of Sweden extends its very best wishes to the owners, crew, and guests of MS Roald Amundsen.