The world’s greenest ever expedition ship – part luxury cruise vessel and part research station – will be launched this year. The MS Roald Amundsen will be setting sail in 2018 destined for the seas and oceans around South America and Antarctica.

On its first voyages, it will explore the fjords of Chile, the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas), Patagonia, the Polar Circle, and the wilderness of the ‘White Continent’.

Roald Amundsen, Antarctica. Image by: Hurtigruten

The ship features a state-of-the-art hybrid engine, powered by battery, making it the most environmentally friendly cruise vessel ever built. Named after the great Norwegian polar explorer Roald Amundsen, it is one of two equally green ships being built for Hurtigruten.

The new boat will feature a two-storey indoor and outdoor observation deck that is wrapped around the ship’s bow. Behind the observation deck is the Amundsen Science Centre fitted with touchscreens and high-tech gadgetry to learn about the landscape and wildlife witnessed on the voyage.

Infinity pool on the Roald Amundsen. Image by Hurtigruten

Travellers can mingle with staff and crew, and hand-picked expedition teams, who will share their expertise on photography, biology, and more. All the cabins are outside, and half have their own private balconies with some luxury suites even having their own private outdoor jacuzzis. The ship features three different restaurants, along with a wellness area, a panoramic sauna, a gym, and a pool deck with swimming area, whirlpools, and a bar.

Passengers will not be confined to the cruise vessel either with kayaks and large inflatable explorer boats available for landing in otherwise inaccessible locations.They will also be able to use Blueye underwater drones that allow travellers to capture or even live stream magnificent underwater footage.

FN Lindstrøm Specialty Restaurant on the RoaldAmundsen. Image by Hurtigruten