Sea Zero Project Launched for Zero-Emission Cruise Ship by 2030

Hurtigruten has unveiled updated plans for its Sea Zero project, a zero-emission ship set to launch in 2030. The ship will be equipped with large batteries and sails, enabling it to operate entirely emission-free with a 40-50% reduction in energy consumption. Developed by Vard in Ålesund, Norway, the design includes sails from OceanWings that can be raised and lowered as needed, potentially reducing energy consumption by 10%.

The ship will feature contra-rotating propellers as the main propulsion and have a battery capacity of around 60MWh. Additional measures such as air lubrication of the hull, modern hull design, advanced coatings, and regular cleaning will help reduce water resistance. Preliminary results also suggest that improved ventilation and insulation systems, along with advanced energy management, can lead to significant energy savings.

Guests onboard will have control over their energy usage through “smart cabins,” allowing them to adjust heating and ventilation through an app and monitor energy consumption. Hurtigruten is also working towards reducing edible food waste to zero and undergoing a 100 million Euro fleet upgrade, with several ships being converted to battery-hybrid power. CEO Hedda Felin emphasized the importance of reducing emissions in the cruising industry, aiming to have an emission-free ship in operation by 2030.

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