The cruise line industry is taking steps towards a more sustainable future. Hurtigruten is renowned for a steadfast commitment to the climate and protecting our oceans. Their organisation is committed to reducing its environmental impact and fighting climate change with an ambitious goal to become fully carbon neutral by 2040 and net-zero by 2050. To this end, Hurtigruten has revealed a brand-new innovation.

The company aims to launch a fully carbon-neutral ship, currently named Sea Zero, by the year 2030.

Sea Zero will be powered by electricity, utilising batteries that are charged with renewable energy while the ship is in port. In addition, the ship will harness wind and solar energy, including the use of 164ft retractable sails. The vessel's structure prioritises sustainability. Streamlined to minimise air resistance, she accommodates 500 guests and 99 crew members in 270 cabins. This signals a balance between capacity and resource efficiency.

A mobile phone app for guests enables individuals to monitor and actively reduce their personal water and energy consumption. Collective participation is paramount to tackling climate change, the prevalent issue in our world today.

There are clearly some hurdles for Hurtigruten to overcome before realising their dream. While some technologies have made significant progress, they still require dedicated research and development to ensure successful integration in the maritime industry. Other technologies are still in the early stages, necessitating fundamental research and comprehensive testing.

Nevertheless, this is a really exciting announcement from a forward-thinking cruise line. Hurtigruten is fully committed to delivering a vessel that surpasses all others in terms of energy efficiency and sustainability within the next few years. The planned zero-emission ship from Hurtigruten will measure 135 metres (443 feet) in length.

Beyond that, Hurtigruten has implemented a range of measures to reduce its carbon footprint…

• New ships featuring hybrid-electric propulsion systems
• Older ships have undergone a green upgrade with more energy-efficient technology 
• Banned the use of heavy fuel oil in 2009; replaced with low-emission marine gas oil
• Reduction of single use plastics onboard
• Invested in renewable energy to reduce reliance on fossil fuels
• Working towards recycling 100% of onboard waste by 2030
• All ships produce their own fresh water and utilise engine heat to warm water tanks

It feels like the cruise line industry stands on the edge of something big in terms of sustainability and the fight against climate change. Hurtigruten are first to take the leap. Who will follow?

Download our Hurtigruten Expeditions guide to learn more about this brilliant cruise line!

Call Panache Cruises on 0161 513 8200 if you want to learn more about luxury expedition cruising.