This zero-emission cruise ship will navigate using solar-powered sails

Norwegian cruise line Hurtigruten has released the first images of its zero-emission electric ship project. In order to be the most energy efficient, it will be equipped with solar sails. The goal is to launch it by 2030.

Hurtigruten wants to sustainably transform its fleet and use smaller, custom-built vessels with a carbon-neutral footprint. This Sea Zero project brings together a consortium of 12 maritime partners, as well as the SINTEF research institute.

These boats will be electric and equipped with batteries that will be recharged at the port, but their biggest challenge will be their retractable sails made up of a total of 1500 m² of solar panels, which will allow many needs to be met on board. Hurtigruten also promises contra-rotating propellers and retractable thrusters. Funny detail, the battery level will be displayed on the outer sides of the ship.

This ship should be 135 m long and have 270 cabins, all of which can accommodate up to 500 travelers and 99 crew members. Its aerodynamic shape will reduce its air resistance and, therefore, its energy consumption.

Note that artificial intelligence will be involved in the maneuvers – and the promotion of the ship. She would be tasked with collecting data to learn the most efficient docking and undocking methods for each port, improving those maneuvers in difficult weather conditions.

Finally, passengers will also be made aware, since they will have the possibility of controlling the ventilation of their cabin via a mobile app and, thus, of measuring their own energy consumption.