Northern Xplorer AS (NX) announces the launch of its new zero-emission luxury cruise ship that aims to open the door to unique communities, natural attractions and experiences in the Nordic countries. A new type of cruise ship offering diverse experiences for those interested in responsible travel with a minimal footprint.
Off the beaten track
Northern Xplorer will offer the opportunity to travel “off the beaten track”, connecting passengers to unique places in the Nordic countries in a personal way. NX marks a new direction in sustainable cruising for thoughtful travellers, and its future expansion will provide a gateway to other European destinations, both coastal and inland waterways.
In Norway, new government regulations coming into force from 2026 will make the elimination of emissions mandatory in the World Heritage Sites of Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord. This means the disappearance of the most polluting cruise ships sailing today.
The world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise liners
The current plan is for a series of 14 ships with a capacity of 300 passengers in 150 cabins and about 100 crew. The first will be in operation from 2024/2025, well ahead of the 2026 zero-emission regulation affecting the Norwegian World Heritage-listed fjords.
The vessels will feature clean technologies such as all-electric propulsion, battery energy storage, hydrogen fuel cells and auxiliary renewable energy supply (wind and solar). They will also feature advanced LADAR technology to detect marine plastic debris and raise awareness of marine pollution.
Long experience in the industry
Sandvik is a master mariner with extensive experience with NCL and Crystal Cruises cruise lines. For several years he was also vice president of destination development. Most recently he founded the travel company The Fjords, based in Flåm in western Norway, where, as CEO, he ushered in a new era of green tourism, launching the hybrid electric ships Vision of the Fjords and Future of the Fjords. Each can accommodate up to 400 passengers on silent, pollution-free voyages in the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord.