This is where Hurtigruten comes in. They have a goal to make Norway the world’s most sustainable travel destination, and their work towards a brighter future of travel reflects their commitment to the ambitious cause. But how exactly do they plan on achieving this? 

Ambitious goals for 2030

In its mission to make Norway the most sustainable destination in the world and helping shape the future of greener sea travel, Hurtigruten have officially launched its most ambitious sustainability project yet. 

Introducing the Sea Zero initiative – an exciting project aiming to develop a ship with zero-emission propulsion by 2030, meaning all normal operations would be free of harmful pollutants and waste. 

In order to do this, Hurtigruten has partnered with SINTEF, one of the largest independent research organisations in Europe, and multiple important maritime players from Norway. Together they are working to find cutting-edge solutions to help achieve this goal by 2030. 

Ahead of this loft goal, in 2025 alone, the upgrades made to Hurtigruten’s existing fleet (including the conversion of three ships to hybrid electric power) have already helped to:

• Reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 25%
• Reduce nitrogen oxides by 80%

Energy efficient fleets 

Norway is bursting with beautiful and exciting things to see and do, from its breathtaking fjords and magical Northern Lights to its vibrant culture and welcoming locals.

As a destination, it certainly doesn’t need more reasons to pull you in, but when travelling with Hurtigruten you also have the added benefit of reducing your environmental impact. 

Hurtigruten is currently undergoing one of the largest ship upgrade projects in the whole of Europe, with the goal to make its entire fleet more sustainable. With these upgrades, Hurtigruten will reduce emissions, convert three ships to hybrid-electric power for quieter and cleaner operations, optimise hull designs to reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency, (and that’s just scratching the surface). 

Plus, your sustainable journey doesn’t stop at sea, all of Hurtigruten’s fleet now connect to shore power when they are docked which even eliminates harmful emissions while in port.

Keeping food waste as low as possible

Your travel experience with Hurtigruten isn’t just about the scenic views and action-packed excursions, it’s also a food journey taking in a whole host of local cuisine. But the delicious dishes you will enjoy are not your standard cruise-ship fare; they are made from ingredients grown, harvested, and fished in Norway. 

Not only will you indulge in the freshest and finest gourmet dishes, but leftover food is turned into fertiliser to help local Norwegian farms grow new products. Operating on a three-R approach (reduce, reuse, and recycle), Hurtigruten helps eliminate food waste and feeds into a self-sustaining cycle.

Leaving single-use plastics in the past

Hurtigruten has been leading the way in sustainability at sea for some time now. We all know the dangers plastic poses to our oceans, which is why Hurtigruten was quick to take action to protect the seas we travel through. 

In 2018, biologist and expedition leader at Hurtigruten, Helga Bårdsdatter Kristiansen, recognised the need to take action against plastic waste and helped Hurtigruten become the first cruise line to completely remove single-use plastics from both its ships and offices. 

Since then, Hurtigruten has worked hard to continue eliminating unnecessary single-use plastics and waste pollution across its fleet.

How this impacts you

If caring for the environment and preserving some of the world’s most pristine natural destinations for future generations is important to you, Hurtigruten’s dedication to a greener future means you can continue travelling to the places you love without harming them.

A greener Norway awaits

Travelling with Hurtigruten not only transports you to the wonders of Norway and helps support sustainability, but you will save an incredible 5% discount as a Cruise Collective Member! 

Book your next adventure today and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime trip that combines exciting experiences with environmental consciousness.