Hurtigruten MD and VP Sales & Marketing for Asia-Pacific Damian Perry, chats with Karryon about the cruise line’s many green ‘firsts’, its most exciting project and shares two tips for responsible travel.
Congratulations on the award… what sets Hurtigruten’s approach to sustainability apart from others in the sector?
We’ve adopted eight of the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) to ensure sustainability is at the core of our operations. Plus we have a pioneering list of ‘firsts’.
Since 1932, we’ve partnered with scientific organisations to measure temperature, salt and algae levels throughout the Norwegian Coast, which helps scientists monitor our influence on these waters.
Hurtigruten was the first to ban the use of Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO) from our operations in 2009 and single-use plastics in 2018.
We were the first to introduce hybrid electric expedition ships with MS Roald Amundsen in 2019 and now have five hybrids in our fleet.
We were also the first to commit to the third-party verified Science Based Target initiative (SBTi} for emission reduction.
Over the past year, we’ve launched two more battery-hybrid powered ships (MS Richard With and MS Kong Harald) reducing CO2 by 20% and nitrogen oxide by 80%. Each hybridisation costs EUR30 million, part of a EUR100 million green upgrade.
In April 2023, we launched our 2022 ESG Report, detailing solutions in our focus areas: Emissions, Nature, Community, and People.
We monitor ourselves and our progress with our ESG Report – which this year won an award for being an outstanding ESG Report.
How important is being green for travel/cruise companies today?
As companies that visit the most pristine destinations of our world, we have to ensure our footprints are as environmentally sound to ensure these areas are preserved for future generations.
The conversation around travel has mostly moved on from looking back to looking forward… what does the future look like for Hurtigruten?
We aim to lead sustainable adventure travel worldwide – change agents for a greener travel industry.
Our targets are to operate the first emission-free ship on the Norwegian coast by 2030, become carbon neutral by 2040 and net zero by 2050.
What are you most excited about that’s coming up for Hurtigruten?
Without a doubt – it’s our Sea Zero project. The Sea Zero Project targets emission-free transport along the Norwegian coast by 2030, backed by a EUR13 million budget secured through collaborations and feasibility studies with research institute SINTEF and 12 maritime technology partners.
In June 2023, we revealed early concept plans for the ship with tangible technology initiatives outlined.
How did you find the change of scenery in Melbourne for this year’s NTIAs?
We’re Melbourne-based – so it was fantastic to win in our home territory.
Care to share a fun eco-travel tip that you swear by when exploring new places?
I have two! First up, consider travelling outside the peak season, which eases pressure on the destination’s infrastructure and local residents – and ultimately makes for a more pleasant travel experience.
Secondly, reduce the amount of single-use plastic you use travelling by making room for reusable items in your suitcase like a water bottle, coffee cup or shopping bag.
Read our wrap of the 2023 NTIAs.
