The first hybrid electric-powered expedition ship in the world and newest ship of Hurtigruten - MS Roald Amundsen, was officially christened on Thursday, November 7, by polar pioneer and godmother Karin Strand in Chiriguano Bay (Brabant Island, Antarctica) during a historic ceremony.
Replacing the bottle of champagne with a chunk of ice, Karin Strand revived a ritual invented by the vessel’s popular namesake, smashing ice against the bow of MS Roald Amundsen in celebration of the occasion.
Hurtigruten specially designed the expedition ship for exploring some of the world's most spectacular waters. Equipped with groundbreaking green technology, Roald Amundsen uses huge battery packs to support low-emission engines, reducing CO2 emissions by over 20%.
This summer, MS Roald Amundsen made history as the first cruise ship to sail on battery power and also became the first hybrid electric-powered vessel to traverse the Northwest Passage.
Following the completion of the 2019-2020 Antarctica season, the ship will spend the 2020 summer season in Alaska.