Hurtigruten HX Expeditions Unveils Electric Silent Science Boats for Polar Exploration
Hurtigruten HX Expeditions has introduced two new electric vessels, termed "silent science boats," which aim to reduce underwater noise pollution and support low-impact research in polar regions. The MK 5 models are powered by RAD Propulsion’s RAD 40 drive system, enabling them to operate nearly silently.
These boats will operate alongside the MS Fram and the hybrid-powered MS Fridtjof Nansen, both serving the Arctic and Antarctic regions. Their primary role is to assist HX’s onboard science teams and researchers, facilitating oceanographic, wildlife, and biodiversity studies. This initiative is part of a larger aim by Hurtigruten to eliminate petroleum-based engines and promote sustainable exploration practices.
Hurtigruten’s scientific leadership emphasizes that underwater sound pollution is a significant yet often overlooked threat to polar ecosystems. By minimizing noise levels, particularly in regions inhabited by whales and other marine species, these electric boats will enable better observation and understanding of natural behaviors.
Constructed to meet the safety and environmental standards set by the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO), these silent science boats signify a commitment to transitioning to quieter, lower-emission operations throughout the Hurtigruten fleet. They represent a new chapter in responsible expedition travel, allowing both scientists and guests to engage in research and wildlife observation without the interference of loud engines.
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At CruiseShip.net, our editorial team is made up of passionate travelers, seasoned cruisers, and maritime industry enthusiasts who live and breathe life at sea. From the latest ship launches and destination spotlights to detailed reviews and onboard tips, we are dedicated to helping readers discover the joy of cruising. Our mission is to make every article both inspiring and useful, whether you are planning your first voyage or your fiftieth. We research, fact-check, and collaborate with cruise insiders around the world to bring you accurate, up-to-date, and exciting coverage of the global cruise industry. Join us as we chart new horizons, exploring one port, one ship, and one unforgettable experience at a time.
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