Norwegian boatbuilder Hurtigruten has revealed exciting new details and concept images for what will be the world’s tallest cruise ship, aiming to sail with net-zero emissions by 2030. The innovative vessel, dubbed Sea Zero, features a groundbreaking combination of electric propulsion, solar-panel-covered sails, and a state-of-the-art battery system.
At the heart of this futuristic design are three 164ft retractable sails, known as OceanWings, already in use on commercial cargo ships like Canopée. These sails double up as solar collectors, capturing renewable energy from the sun while reducing wind resistance and fuel consumption.
Sea Zero’s power system is equally impressive. The ship will be powered by an enormous battery system, designed to store enough energy to sail between ports without needing to rely on fossil fuels – a first for a cruise liner of this size. Project manager Trond Johnsen explained, “With the reduction in energy use we’re aiming for, it’s realistic to fit a battery system with enough energy to allow the ship to sail between charging ports under normal weather conditions.”
Hurtigruten already has four battery-hybrid ships in operation, but Sea Zero is their boldest step yet toward full sustainability. The company launched the Sea Zero project in October 2022, with the first concept plans emerging in 2023. The design now revealed looks more spaceship than cruise ship – sleek, modern, and incredibly green.
One of the more unusual but innovative features is the “lubricated” hull. By pumping a layer of air bubbles underneath the ship, resistance is reduced, helping the vessel glide through water more efficiently. Combined with advanced anti-fouling coatings and regular hull cleaning, this approach significantly cuts down on energy usage during voyages.
To further enhance sustainability, the ship will use contra-rotating propellers, boosting propulsion efficiency while minimising environmental impact.
For passengers, the experience will be just as cutting-edge. Guests will stay in smart cabins, where they can control temperature and ventilation through a digital app. COO Gerry Larsson-Fedde revealed that Hurtigruten is already testing these high-tech features and plans to conduct full-scale guest trials soon.
The unveiling of Sea Zero comes amid a wave of cruise innovation globally. China recently launched a colossal cargo vessel capable of carrying 220,000 tonnes, and another new cruise concept ‘Serenity’ is being designed exclusively for elderly passengers, complete with assisted living facilities.
But Sea Zero is leading the charge toward a more environmentally responsible future for cruise travel. With its soaring solar sails and zero-emission vision, it signals a transformative moment in marine engineering and luxury travel.