Hybrid Luxury at Sea; MS Roald Amundsen

The world’s first custom-built hybrid-powered expedition ship, MS Roald Amundsen, debuts the summer of 2019 with a unique hybrid propulsion technology that will allow visitors to explore the polar regions in a truly eco-friendly way. The ship is curated for art lovers: Unique works by young Norwegian artists, handpicked by the Queen of Norway’s art foundation, the Queen Sonja Print Award, will grace the Amundsen. Visitors can find multiple prints in all suites and cabins and can gaze at them in public spaces including restaurants, staircases, and corridors. Sign us up!

The ship was designed and developed in cooperation with Kleven Yards from Rolls-Royce’s marine division, the Norwegian yacht designer Espen Øino, and Tillberg Design of Sweden. The innovative ship design integrates an ice-strengthened hull and a wave piercing bow design. The ship features a state-of-the-art hybrid engine, powered by battery, making it the most environmentally friendly cruise vessel ever built. Named after the great Norwegian polar explorer Roald Amundsen, it is one of two equally green ships being built for Hurtigruten.

Outdoor observation decks, including a two-level forward-facing explorer deck wrapped around the bow and an aft top deck pool bar with an infinity pool, will offer sweeping views of glaciers, ice caps, and wildlife. Behind the observation deck is the Amundsen Science Centre fitted with touchscreens and high-tech gadgetry to learn about the landscape and wildlife witnessed on the voyage. Passengers will not be confined to the cruise vessel either with kayaks and large inflatable explorer boats available for landing in otherwise inaccessible locations.They will also be able to use Blueye underwater drones that allow travellers to capture or even live stream magnificent underwater footage. Travellers can mingle with staff and crew, and hand-picked expedition teams, who will share their expertise on photography, biology, and more.

The ship features thee restaurants, a wellness area, a panoramic sauna, a gym, and a pool deck with swimming area, whirlpools, and a bar. Guests will find a distinctly Nordic look and feel throughout, with Scandinavian and Norwegian materials from nature—such as granite, oak, birch, wool, and leather. All 265 staterooms and suites have ocean views, and most have private balconies. The staterooms aboard the vessel will be divided into three major categories, namely Expedition suites, Arctic Superior class cabins, and Polar Outside cabins. All the cabins are outside, and half have their own private balconies with some luxury suites even having their own private outdoor jacuzzis.

By Kate Dannies