Norway is about to host what could be the world’s longest climate-neutral cruise, a 12-day round trip planned by Havila Voyages. The journey, which covers more than 5,000 nautical miles, is designed to demonstrate that long-distance, green-friendly sailing is possible.
A Green Approach to Cruising
Cruise ships are often criticized for their significant carbon footprint, but Havila Voyages aims to set a new standard. The company plans to power its test voyage using a combination of renewable biogas, which is made from organic waste, and large battery packs. This approach would allow the ship to complete the entire Bergen to Kirkenes round trip with a neutral climate impact.
Havila’s ships are already equipped with a 6.1 MWh battery pack, the largest of their kind on a passenger vessel. The company previously showed off this technology in June 2022 when its ship, the Havila Castor, sailed through the Geirangerfjord for four hours with zero emissions, operating on battery power alone.
Commitment to Sustainable Shipping
Havila’s CEO, Bent Martini, stated that the company is actively working to secure enough biogas for the trip and is confident it will succeed. He emphasized that the coastal route could serve as a “beacon for the green transition” in the shipping industry and urged Norwegian authorities to maintain strong environmental commitments.
This effort aligns with Norway’s broader environmental goals. The country has set a deadline for all vessels sailing in its famous fjords and along its coast to meet zero-emission standards by 2032. Starting in 2026, smaller coastal ships will begin a six-year phase-in period to comply with these regulations.
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Source: Marine Insight
