Norwegian boat builder Hurtigruten has revealed exciting new details and concept images of the world's tallest cruise ship, which aims to use net-zero emissions by 2030.
At the heart of this futuristic design are three 164-foot retractable sails known as Oceanwings, which are already used in commercial cargo ships like the Canopée. These sails double as solar collectors, and acquire renewable energy from the sun while reducing wind resistance and fuel consumption.
The Sea Zero power system is equally impressive. The ship will be equipped with a massive battery system designed to store enough energy to sail between ports without relying on fossil fuels. This is the first cruise liner of this size. “With the reduction in energy usage we are aiming to reduce, it is practical to adapt a battery system with sufficient energy to allow vessels to navigate between charging ports under normal weather conditions.”
While the Hurtigruten already has four battery hybrid vessels in operation, the Sea Zero is the boldest step towards full sustainability. The company launched the Sea Zero project in October 2022, with the first concept plan coming into the market in 2023. The design is refined and modern, and now looks more like a spacecraft than an incredibly green cruise ship.
One of the more unusual but innovative features is the “lubricated” hull. Pumping up a layer of air bubbles under the ship reduces resistance and helps the container slide through the water more efficiently. Combined with advanced anti-fooling coatings and regular hull cleaning, this approach significantly reduces energy usage during the voyage.
To further improve sustainability, the ship uses contradictory propellers to increase propulsion efficiency while minimizing environmental impact.
For passengers, the experience is cutting edge. Guests stay in the smart cabin, where temperature and ventilation can be controlled via a digital app. COO Gerry Larsson-Fedde has revealed that Hurtigruten is already testing these high-tech features and plans to run a full-scale guest trial soon.
The Sea Zero announcement is amidst a wave of cruise innovation around the world. China recently launched a huge cargo ship that can carry 220,000 tons. Another new cruise concept, Serenity, is designed specifically for elderly passengers and features support facilities.
However, Sea Zero is guiding rates towards a more environmentally responsible future for cruise travel. The rising solar sales and zero-emission vision showcase a transformative moment in marine engineering and luxury travel.
