World's Longest Climate-Neutral Journey Set to Depart by Havila Voyages
In a significant stride towards a greener future, Norwegian cruise line Havila Voyages has announced plans to launch the world's longest climate-neutral cruise this autumn. The 12-day voyage will traverse Norway's picturesque fjords, from Bergen to Kirkenes and back.
Havila Voyages, in collaboration with HAV Group, aims to make its fleet climate-neutral and eventually zero-emission. The ships will rely on a combination of biogas and giant battery packs for power, allowing them to sail in almost complete silence with zero emissions, enhancing the passenger experience.
This ambitious project, if successful, will mark the longest climate-neutral cruise ever attempted. Havila has already operated emission-free journeys using its battery systems, demonstrating the technology's feasibility.
The aim of climate neutrality is to achieve no overall impact on the climate. It addresses the entire spectrum of greenhouse gases, including methane and nitrous oxide, through reductions, alternative fuels, and offsets.
The cruise industry is under growing scrutiny over its carbon footprint, with cruise ships averaging roughly 250 grams of CO2 per passenger kilometre. Public pressure, regulations, and lobbying have prompted operators to explore cleaner technologies.
Norway, with its UNESCO-protected fjords, is positioning itself as a testing ground for the green transition of the cruise industry. The country is tightening regulations, requiring all ships sailing in its fjords to be zero-emission by 2026, and larger vessels by 2032.
Meanwhile, Viking, headquartered in Switzerland, is collaborating with Italian shipyard Fincantieri to build the world's first hydrogen-powered cruise ship. Norwegian rival Hurtigruten is developing a zero-emission ship for 2030.
However, the path to climate neutrality is not without challenges. Havila Voyages CEO Bent Martini mentioned that the main challenge is sourcing sufficient volumes of biogas, which requires heavy investment.
Martini also suggested that the ships on the coastal route will be the spearhead of the green transition in shipping. If the project is successful, Havila Voyages will complete the full 5,000-nautical-mile coastal route 'climate neutrally'.
This exciting development in the cruise industry underscores the commitment to sustainability and the potential for a greener future for maritime travel.
