Hurtigruten has unveiled its first zero-emission cruise ship
The 'Sea Zero' project will be the world’s most energy-efficient cruise ship. (Image: VARD Design)
Hurtigruten will set sail with the world’s most energy-efficient cruise ship in 2030.
With their already established focus on sustainability, early concept designs have been revealed of Hurtigruten Norway’s first zero-emission cruise ship. The ‘Sea Zero’ project will be the world’s most energy-efficient cruise ship and is paving the way for emission-free marine travel.
Before ‘Sea Zero’ hits the seas, Hurtigruten Norway and its maritime partners will be testing and developing their ground-breaking innovations until 2025. The project will then advance to the new-build stage as it gears up to launch by 2030.
“Following a rigorous feasibility study, we have pinpointed the most promising technologies for our groundbreaking future cruise ships,” Hurtigruten Norway chief executive officer Hedda Felin said.
“We are committed to delivering a ship that surpasses all others in terms of energy efficiency and sustainability within just a few years.”
Sea Zero is the first of its kind. (Image: VARD Design)
What are some of the initiatives?
Battery banks
Hurtigruten Norway’s future ships will be electric and equipped with 60-megawatt-hour batteries (free from cobalt) that charge in port. Plus, your low-battery anxiety can extend beyond your devices as the battery charge will be displayed on the side of the ship for all to see.
Hurtigruten will set sail with the world’s most energy-efficient cruise ship in 2030. (Image: VARD Design)
AI guided bridge
Say hello to more deck space. Following enhanced AI manoeuvring, the bridge where the captain and crew steer the ship is expected to reduce in size (similar to an aeroplane cockpit) meaning there will be more precious viewing areas on the upper decks.
“The streamlined shape, with its innovative hull and propulsion solutions, not only reduces energy demand but also increases passenger comfort,” VARD research and innovation manager Henrik Burvang said.
“In the process, we are developing new design tools and exploring new technologies for energy efficiency.”
Retractable wind and solar sails
The new ship will have three retractable sails covered by 1,500 square metres of solar panels. This will enhance the aerodynamics of the ship and will have 24-hour sunshine in Norway summer.
The sails fully extend. (Image: VARD Design)
Smart cabins
Each passenger will take control of their own environmental impact through an app that measures their personal water and energy consumption and manages their cabin ventilation.
Additional technologies
The ship will also exhibit air lubrication, advanced hull coating, proactive hull cleaning, contra-rotating propellers, and multiple retractable thrusters.
The 135-metre-long zero-emission ship will hold 500 guests and 99 crew members.
The ship will hold 500 guests. (Image: VARD Design)
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