Hurtigruten, the Norwegian expedition cruise shipping company, says it has decided to fit its newbuildings with hybrid propulsion technology.

The first ship, which is on firm order at Kleven shipbuilding group, will be fitted with a n electric auxiliary engine, which will reduce CO2 emissions by a fifth.

A second vessel, which is currently an option, is planned to be fitted with full hybrid propulsion system that would allow the vessel to use batteries and electric drive over long distances in environmentally sensitive areas. From the beginning, the second ship is expected to be able to sail on electric power for 15 to 30 minutes.

The ships are designed by Rolls Royce and Hurtigruten’s investment in the new technology amounts to NOK125 million, of which NOK 45million comes from an environmental grant, the company said in a statement.