Karl WP Beyer February 15, 2023 – The Norwegian start-up Northern Xplorer (NX) is pursuing an ambitious goal. It aspires to build a small, zero-emissions cruise ship that will visit regions previously neglected by the cruise industry.
The project could become a reality in 2026. The intention is to build a comfortable cruise ship with a length of 140 meters. The number of cabins is estimated at 125. With double occupancy, the new building project can accommodate 250 passengers. 100 crew members take care of the guests.
Northern Xplorer © Rendering Multi Maritime AS
The ship that is currently being planned will do without any CO₂ emissions. Northern Xplorer has applied for patent protection on its Zero Emissions concept. The concept envisages using fuel cells to generate clean fuel. The electrical energy obtained in this way is stored in powerful batteries. In addition, these are charged by wind and solar energy. The company's focus is on sustainability.
The noble claim of sustainability also stands for the goals. There are no plans to do world tours. Instead, the list of routes includes destinations that have so far been "overlooked" by tourism. This development would lead to new jobs in the target areas and to economic growth. And all this without releasing any pollutants.
Northern Xplorer © Rendering Multi Maritime AS
WORLD VOYAGER in the roadstead in front of Corvo / Azores
However, there is a small catch: the money. According to its website, Northern Xplorer is trying to raise private funds and public funding from Norway, Sweden and the EU. The Norwegian ship developers Multi Maritim AS, Førde, are responsible for the design and architecture of the ship. A letter of intent to build the ship has been signed with Portuguese shipyard West Sea Yard. The shipyard already has expertise with both Mystic Cruises ships World Explorer and WORLD VOYAGER proven. It remains to be seen whether the realization of the demanding project will succeed. It would be desirable. Cruise shipping urgently needs future-oriented technical solutions and moving away from run-of-the-mill shipbuilding.
