HURTIGRUTEN has set the date for its groundbreaking 4,000-kilometre climate-neutral biofuel sailing, which will take place later this month.
History will be made on 29 Oct when the line embarks on one of the world’s longest sailings using only climate-neutral biofuel, which significantly reduces GHG emissions by absorbing atmospheric carbon and releasing a roughly equivalent amount.
The round trip will sail along the Norwegian coast from Bergen to Kirkenes and back, aboard one of its battery-hybrid-powered Richard With (pictured).
The ship’s tanks will be filled with 100% advanced biofuel, and she will also be able to connect to shore power wherever available.
Hurtigruten has invested 100 million (A$177m) in technical and environmental upgrades to its fleet in the past three years, while gradually phasing in the use of biofuels, in order to reduce CO2 and NOX emissions.
The cruise line is also working to reduce emissions through its research and development program Sea Zero (CW 26 Mar), which is aiming to design a ship that can sail emissions-free.
Hurtigruten said the Sea Zero project will be sailing along the Norwegian coast by 2030.
“Our ships already sail on blended biofuel, but for the first time we will carry out the entire sailing on 100% advanced biofuel,” Chief Executive Officer Hedda Felin said.
“For us at Hurtigruten, it is important to do what we can to reduce emissions, and this voyage is an example of how biofuel can play a key role in achieving Norway’s climate goals.”
The efforts come as the country plans to ban all traditional marine oil cruise ships from its fjords by 2032 (CW 30 Aug 2024). MS
