The world’s first hybrid cruise vessel is due to make her inaugural call at the Port of Halifax. On Saturday, September 17, the MS Roald Amundsen, a Hurtigruten vessel named after the first person to cross Antarctica and reach the South Pole, is scheduled to visit Halifax. She is due to arrive at Berth 23 at 8 a.m.

“As an organization, the Halifax Port Authority is committed to incorporating sustainability into everything that we do,” said Captain Allan Gray, President and CEO, Halifax Port Authority. “We are working with our partners in cruise to create the conditions for a more sustainable industry, and we are encouraged by innovations like this that help to move the industry forward.”

The state-of-the-art Hurtigruten vessel is the world’s first hybrid cruise vessel, using battery power to support its low-emission engines. Excess energy from the ship’s engines is stored in battery packs, allowing the ship to operate using solely electric power for short intervals. With this green technology, the vessel cuts fuel consumption and carbon emissions by 20%.

The Roald Amundsen is the first cruise vessel to be christened in Antarctica, a nod to its specialized design, which allows it to traverse the world’s most frigid waters. The ship features an infinity pool, a glass-encased sauna, three restaurants, and cabins made with Scandinavian wood and stone.

Vessel Information:

  • Year built: 2019
  • Passenger capacity: 528 (500 in Antarctica)
  • Gross tonnage: 20 889 metric tonnes
  • Length: 140 metres
  • Beam: 23.6 metres