Hurtigruten is launching MS Roald Amundsen, the first of a series of hybrid-battery powered expedition cruise ships. A sister ship, MS Fridtjof Nansen, is currently under construction at Norway’s Kleven Yard and will be introduced in 2020. A third ship is planned for 2021.

MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridtjof Nansen provide the possibility to significantly reduce fuel costs and emissions in cruising, shipping, and coastal transport. Their successful implementation could help to push cruise operators and transport companies worldwide to adopt low-emission technology.

To uphold a responsible tourism industry, electrification of sea and road transport will be one of several essential measures. Demonstrating successful electrification on a large scale could also pave the way for low-emission transport alternatives more broadly especially within shipping.

Hurtigruten’s ground-breaking ships employ the same hybrid technology, which – combined with increased fuel efficiency and other green technology – will reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions by more than 20 percent. The powerful battery packs will allow the vessels to operate entirely emission-free during short periods of time, with room set aside to expand battery capacity and add new technology.

Kaynak: Maritime-Executive.

https://www.maritime-executive.com/article/first-hybrid-cruise-ship-sails-northwest-passage
https://worldmaritimenews.com/archives/277965/nor-shipping-color-hybrid-named-ship-of-the-year-2019/