Hurtigruten, the world leader in exploration travel, is partnering with Blueye Robotics, a Norwegian startup, to introduce underwater drones on the cruise line’s worldwide expedition ships – helping travelers to unlock their inner explorer.
The groundbreaking hybrid-powered MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridtjof Nansen, the world’s first expedition cruise ships powered by hybrid battery technology, will house the new Blueye Pioneer drones.
Developed in the extreme conditions of the Arctic Ocean where Hurtigruten has sailed for 125 years, the Blueye Pioneer drone has a unique combination of compact size, weighing at 15 pounds, power that features four robust thrusters, and stability. Blueye Pioneer’s high-definition, wide-angle video camera uses special technologies that work in low light conditions and can stream true-color images to screens on the Hurtigruten ships or to the digital diving masks worn by guests aboard smaller Explorer Boats.
Hurtigruten offers voyages to some of the world’s most remote and pristine waters and destinations, such as Antarctica, the Northwest Passage, Arctic Canada, Greenland, Svalbard and the Norwegian coast. Now the mysterious realm of these waters will be accessible to all guests on board.
Hurtigruten CEO Daniel Skjeldam, gave the following statement:
“Hurtigruten is building the world’s greenest and most advanced expedition ships. With the introduction of underwater drones, we are adding a new dimension for our guest.
Ninety percent of the ocean remains unexplored, and with underwater drones on our ships we can take our guests to areas less explored than the surface of Mars.”
