Captain of 37 years Kai Albrigtsen will command the world’s first hybrid cruise ship from 2019
By
Elly Yates-Roberts |
Norwegian cruise operator Hurtigruten has officially named Kai Albrigtsen as captain of Roald Amundsen, which will embark on her maiden voyage in 2019. Albrigtsen will be the first captain of a hybrid cruise ship and brings 37 years of sailing experience to the role.
Roald Amundsen is currently under construction in Norway’s Kleven Yard, alongside sister ship Fridtjof Nansen. The industry’s first hybrid cruise ships will be delivered in 2019 and 2020, followed by a third hybrid expedition cruise ship in 2021.
“It is a great honour and a big responsibility,” said Albrigtsen. “Taking command over such a unique vessel is without a doubt the highlight of my career.”
Roald Amundsen will take just 500 guests to destinations such as Antarctica, the Arctic and Alaska to explore places unreachable by larger vessels with minimal environmental impact.
“The latest technology offers many opportunities, and Hurtigruten is setting a new standard for the entire cruise industry,” Albrigtsen said. “I am really proud to be a part of Hurtigruten’s unparalleled sustainable operations. With the introduction of Roald Amundsen, we are showing the world what’s possible.”
Albrigtsen has worked on over 10 Hurtigruten vessels. His first expedition to Antarctica was in 2003 and he rose to the rank of captain in 2006. For the past two years, he has held the position of master on Hurtigruten’s expedition cruise ship Midnatsol.
“Through my 37 years with Hurtigruten, I have faced challenges and gained unique experiences,” he said. “But most of all, working for Hurtigruten is an adventure which I look forward to every day – in every position I have held. No two days at ‘the office’ are the same.”