Hurtigruten, the Norwegian coastal and expedition cruise
line, said two new ships it is building for 2018 and 2019 will be called the Roald
Amundsen and the Fridtjof Nansen.
While they may not exactly trip off the tongue, the names
honor the two most influential Norwegian polar pioneers from the era when the
company first started offering adventure travel.
The 530-passenger ships will be designed by Rolls Royce and
built by Kleven Yards in Norway.
The interior will mirror the exterior waters and landscapes,
Hurtigruten said. Materials will be predominantly Norwegian and be inspired by
nature using granite, oak, birch and wool, among other materials.
The ships will have large observation platforms on several
decks for guests to get close to nature and wildlife. Six out of ten cabins
will have balconies; two out of ten will be suites.
The vessels will have three restaurants with menus
reflecting local flavors and destinations. A pool deck will include infinity
pools, Jacuzzis and bars.
Hurtigruten said itineraries for the new ships will be
announced in November.