"Over the next five years, a handful of lines including Hurtigruten, Ponant, and industry newcomers Orient Express Sailing Yachts and Selar, are scheduled to release the next generation of sustainable cruise ships. With two to six masts rising from their decks, each vessel features rigid sails that don't flutter in the wind-but harness the power of the elements nonetheless. While the exact mechanisms vary, each vessel uses specially designed sails to tap nature's energy sources: the sun and the wind."
"Selar, a brand-new expedition line, plans to launch its 36-passenger ship, Captain Arctic, in November 2026 with itineraries throughout Norway, Svalbard, and Greenland, some of which are already sold out. Currently under construction at the Chantier Naval de l'Ocean Indien shipyard in Mauritius, it will be the Arctic's first solar sailing ship, with an estimated 90% of the ship's operations fueled by solar and wind-powered electric propulsion, tapping a battery reserve and biofuel when those elements aren't available."
Over the next five years, multiple cruise lines including Hurtigruten, Ponant, Orient Express Sailing Yachts, and Selar will introduce sail-assisted sustainable expedition ships featuring two to six rigid masts. The vessels combine specially designed rigid sails with solar power, batteries, hydroelectricity, biofuel, and hydrogen fuel cells as backups to reduce emissions. Selar's 36-passenger Captain Arctic, launching November 2026, will operate primarily on solar and wind-powered electric propulsion, generate fresh water, use an organic heating system, and enforce a zero-waste policy. Sailings will emphasize flexible, weather- and wildlife-dependent routing and outdoor excursions like ski tours and northern lights treks.
Read at Conde Nast Traveler
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