Hurtigruten is setting out to lead the world of adventure cruising with an order for four new ships that will “open-up the polar waters” and create new adventure opportunities.
Placed last week, the order includes the construction of two new state-of-the-art ships designed specifically for adventure-rich expedition voyages in the Arctic and Antarctic regions.
Scheduled for delivery by 2018/19, all four ships will have advanced environmentally-friendly technology to reduce emissions. They will also offer lectures on topics relevant to the destination they sail from experts such as zooligists, biologists and environmental scientists.
Using zodiacs, guests will be able to explore destinations in more depth before taking part in a host of activities including climbing, kayaking as well as whale and sea eagle safaris.
According to the company, the major investment will ensure its position as a leader in adventure cruising, which grew at a rapid rate of 195 percent over the last two years and is valued at $263 billion.
“We are to build the most formidable expedition ships the world has seen.”
Daniel Skjeldam, Hurtigruten CEO
“The new adventure traveller is looking for authentic experiences, which is why sedentary, standardised travel packages are becoming less popular and active adventure travel is booming.
“Our experience is that explorers travelling with Hurtigruten crave adventurous activities and mindfulness in combination, therefore Hurtigruten offers active voyages.
“We offer real experiences in local environments, just steps away from the wildlife.”
The vessels will be designed and developed by Rolls-Royce, with the assistance of renowned Norwegian ship designer Espen Øino, and built by Kleven, a longstanding partner.