Sustainability
We aim to shape the future of travel and lead the way in making Norway the world's most sustainable travel destination.
At Hurtigruten, we’re working towards shaping a more responsible way to travel, as well as supporting Norway’s ambition to become one of the world’s most sustainable destinations.
To achieve this, we see sustainability as an ongoing journey. In 2025, we completed a major multi-year upgrade across our fleet, improving our ships, modernising operations and reducing emissions.
By continuing to invest, innovate and evolve, we aim to offer journeys that not only connect you to the coast but help protect it for the future.
Our sustainability progress as of 2026
We’re continuously working to reduce our impact and improve how we sail through technology, innovation and everyday choices on board. This is what we’ve achieved so far.
Cleaner fuels and propulsion
Hybrid systems are now installed on four vessels – MS Nordlys, MS Richard With, MS Finnmarken and MS Kong Harald – alongside a full engine replacement on MS Vesterålen. Eight vessels are equipped with SCR systems, and our fleet can operate on certified biofuels (HVO/MGO blends) to help reduce emissions.
Improved energy efficiency
Upgrades across the fleet include new propeller blades, bulbous bows, gears and control systems, as well as streamlined hulls designed to optimise inertia and reduce drag while sailing.
Reduced environmental footprint
All vessels use low-sulphur fuels and are equipped with advanced wastewater and ballast-water treatment systems. Full shore-power connectivity allows ships to plug in while in port, further reducing emissions.
Circular and responsible operations
We have removed unnecessary single-use plastics across the fleet, replacing them with biodegradable or durable alternatives. In Stamsund, a closed-loop composting programme helps turn organic waste into a resource that supports local agriculture.
Sea Zero - a cleaner way of sailing
Beginning back in 2023, we have been engaged in the most ambitious sustainability project in our long history – developing a ship designed to operate with zero emissions during normal operations along the Norwegian coast.
In partnership with SINTEF, one of Europe’s leading independent research organisations, as well as several key maritime players, our Sea Zero initiative explores new approaches to energy efficiency and battery-electric propulsion.
The Sea Zero project continues to advance. At its heart is an ambitious vision to design the world’s most energy-efficient, zero-emissions cruise ship, purpose-built to operate along the Norwegian coast. Developed in close collaboration with leading research partners, the concept brings together a range of forward-looking technologies, including retractable wind and solar sails, a substantial 60 MWh battery bank, AI-assisted manoeuvring, and other innovations designed to reduce energy use and emissions.
Rather than a single breakthrough, Sea Zero represents a step change in how ships are conceived: one in which design, energy systems and operations work in balance with the environment they move through.
The project builds on a long-standing commitment to cleaner operations and continuous improvement across the fleet. In 2025, a multi-year upgrade programme was completed, representing an investment of approximately €150 million. Through vessel modernisation, hybridisation and efficiency improvements, this programme has delivered measurable reductions in emissions while laying the groundwork for the next generation of low-impact coastal voyages.
Key upgrades to our fleet: some facts and figures
We have completed one of Europe’s largest ship upgrade programmes, significantly improving the sustainability of our fleet. This has reduced emissions, enhanced energy efficiency, and enabled the conversion of four vessels to hybrid-electric propulsion.
Emission reductions in 2025
18% reduction in CO₂ emissions per APCN (Scope 1) and 29% reduction in total CO₂ emissions (Scope 1+2) compared to 2018
71% reduction in NOₓ emissions compared to 2018, and 45% reduction in SOₓ emissions compared to 2023
Ongoing introduction of certified biofuels to further reduce environmental impact
More hybrid-powered ships
Four vessels now upgraded to hybrid-electric propulsion for cleaner and quieter operations
Installation of large battery packs and energy-efficient engines
Shore power connectivity
All vessels are equipped to connect to shore power when docked, eliminating emissions in ports where shore power is available
Plastic-free and waste reduction measures
Removal of single-use plastics across the fleet
Implementation of advanced waste management systems to reduce pollution
Energy efficiency improvements
Optimised hull design to reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency
Modernised wastewater treatment systems to minimise environmental impact
Towards zero food waste
We are committed to minimising food waste through our Towards Zero Food Waste initiative – a circular approach that rethinks how food is prepared, enjoyed and returned to the earth.
This programme forms part of Norway's Coastal Kitchen, guided by the principles of Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle.
Reduce: Chefs prepare thoughtful portion sizes to limit surplus
Reuse: Ingredients are reimagined and transformed into new dishes
Recycle: Unavoidable food waste is converted into fertiliser
On board, food waste is carefully collected and transported to a compost reactor in Stamsund. Within just 24 hours, natural microbial processes transform it into nutrient-rich fertiliser. This is then used at local Myklevik Farm to grow fresh produce – ingredients that eventually return to our ships, completing a continuous and regenerative cycle.
We aim to expand this model to additional regions in Norway, supporting wider adoption of circular practices while helping to protect and preserve the coastline along which we sail.
More information
Visit our ESG page for further details on our Environmental, Social and Governance initiatives, as well as our long-term ambitions for responsible travel.
