Norwegian coastal cruise ship Havila Capella was christened on Tuesday almost a year after entering service.
The Havila Voyages has touted Havila Capella as being the most environmentally friendly ship on the route between Bergen and Kirkenes.
The vessel is powered by a hybrid mix of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and what is claimed to be the world’s largest battery pack on a passenger ship.
The 640-passenger ship was docked in Bergen for more than two months earlier in the year as unnamed insurance firms scrapped cover due to ties with sanctioned Russian firm GTLK Asia. Sailings resumed in June after new cover was secured.
The ship’s godmother, Havila Voyages board member Hege Sævik Rabben, said: “For both Havila Capella and the company, it has been a difficult start to the operation along the coastal route, but we are optimistic for the future.”
Havila has two vessels – Havila Capella and Havila Castor– with another two ships due to join the fleet.
Managing director Brent Martini said: “The characteristics of Havila Capella make her a guiding star along the coast, like her sister ships.
“We have already sailed the world heritage in the Geirangerfjord emission-free, four years before the authorities’ requirements, and have ships that have been built to meet the future requirements and opportunities for completely emission-free sailings.”