Hurtigruten names hybrid explorer ships
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Norwegian exploration travel company, Hurtigruten, has decided to name the first two new hybrid powered expedition ships “Roald Amundsen” and “Fridtjof Nansen” after the two most influential Norwegian polar pioneers.
The new ships have been designed by Rolls-Royce, in collaboration with Norwegian yacht designer Espen Øino, and are due to be delivered in 2018 and 2019. There are also plans for an additional for two additional vessels.
“It is exactly 105 years since Roald Amundsen became the first person in the world to plant his flag on the South Pole; 128 years since Fridtjof Nansen skied across Greenland; and 120 years since Richard With, Hurtigruten’s founder, first started exploration tourism in the Arctic.
“What could be more natural and appropriate than to name our new ships after these inspiring trailblazers,” said Hurtigruten CEO Daniel Skjeldam.
With the “Roald Amundsen” and “Fridtjof Nansen”, Hurtigruten also sets a new standard in interior design and on-board customer experience. The aura of the period of the great exploration expeditions is to be recreated within the framework of modernity and premium quality and comfort.
The interior will mirror the breath-taking waters and landscapes where the expedition ships sail. Materials will be predominantly Norwegian and inspired by nature and Scandinavian style with an innovative approach to the use of granite, oak and birch, and wool, amongst other materials.
The ships will have large observation platforms on several decks for guests to get up-close to nature and wildlife. A majority of cabins will have their own balcony, whilst a small number will be suites.
The vessels will have three restaurants with menus inspired by local flavours and destinations. A special pool deck will include infinity pools, Jacuzzis and bars.
The new ships will also showcase the very latest in innovative environmentally friendly technology, which, in combination with the construction of the hull and effective use of electricity on board, will reduce emissions from the ships by 20 percent.
2018 and 2019 itineraries for “Roald Amundsen” – Hurtigruten’s first next-generation expedition ship – will be announced in November.
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