Hurtigruten Norway, a Norwegian exploration cruise company, is planning to construct a zero-emission electric cruise ship complete with retractable sails and solar panels. The ship will be powered by 60 megawatts of battery power, which can be recharged while docked at port. It will also feature three retractable sails that can reach up to 50 meters in height and a 1,500-square-meter solar panel. The cruise ship will comprise 270 cabins accommodating up to 500 passengers and 99 crew members.

The shipping industry currently accounts for approximately 3% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Hurtigruten Norway’s zero-emission cruise ship is a bold step towards a more sustainable future for the shipping industry. The company plans to extensively test the proposed technology and finalize the ship’s design by 2026. The inaugural ship is anticipated to be introduced in Norwegian waters by 2030. Subsequently, the company plans to gradually convert all of its existing ships into zero-emission vessels.