The expedition ship will also be retrofitted with environmentally friendly engines
By
Elly Yates-Roberts |
Hurtigruten’s Fram will receive a full makeover – including upgraded restaurants, staterooms, a new science centre and an engine upgrade to reduce her environmental impact – for the first time since her launch in 2007.
The keel-to-mast upgrade will bring several new features to the ship. All cabins and suites will be fully refurbished with natural Scandinavian materials such as granite, oak, birch and wool to create a more relaxed atmosphere. The main dining room will be converted into two new restaurants. Aune, the more informal of the two will have natural design elements and serve Scandinavian food. Lindstrøm, named after the favourite chef of Norwegian polar explorers, will offer cocktails and traditional Norwegian cuisine. The Qilak Observation Lounge will also be refurbished, re-emerging as the Explorer Lounge and Bar, which will provide handcrafted cocktails.
The new Science Center will provide technology and gadgets such as touch screens and other interactive features, offering passengers a deeper understanding of the ship’s destinations.
Fram will also undergo major technical upgrades during her drydock, including a retrofit of her engines to ensure she complies with the strictest environmental standards.
“The original Fram was the most famous ship of its time and kept pushing the frontiers in the golden age of polar expeditions,” said Daniel Skjeldam, CEO of Hurtigruten. “Our Fram was built to embrace that legacy. With this upgrade, she will keep setting the standard for expedition cruises, and deliver unparalleled, premium expedition experiences for her guests.”