Hurtigruten unveils electric cruise ship with wind and solar sails

Cruise company Hurtigruten Norway has unveiled a concept design for its new battery-powered cruise ship that integrates multiple technologies, including wind and solar sails, to improve efficiency and reduce emissions.

PHOTO: Hurtigruten Norway’s battery-powered cruise ship has been designed by Vard. Hurtigruten Norway

The vessel will be equipped with three retractable, autonomous wing-rigs, which enhance the aerodynamics of the ship These wing-rigs will be covered with solar panels to provide “added propulsion” to the ship.

A 60-megawatt hours (MWh) battery system will power the cruise ship, which can be connected to shore power systems in port. The battery will be also charged through solar energy.

Two thrusters will be installed in the cruise ship's hull to improve maneuverability. Also, an air lubrication system to reduce the vessel's drag.

Hrutigruten Norway has been working in collaboration with the Norwegian research institute SINTEF and 12 other industry partners to develop the vessel. Norwegian naval architect Vard is designing the vessel.

The company expects the ship to start sailing on the Norwegian coast in 2030.

By Tuhin Roy

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