Finnmarken to undergo 'keel to mast' upgrade

After the “most extensive upgrade” in Hurtigruten’s 125-year history, Finnmarken will re-emerge as a “brand-new premium” expedition cruise ship, the Norwegian cruise operator said.

Hurtigruten said the keel-to-mast upgrade – which will take place in Q1 2020 – will bring several new features to the ship. This includes substantially upgraded, low-emission engines, complying with all known and upcoming regulations, installing shore-power connectivity and preparing the cruise ship for future battery pack installation.

“We will transform it into a full-fledged premium expedition cruise ship, with all the comforts, facilities and expertise you need for creating a perfect adventure,” Hurtigruten chief executive Daniel Skjeldam said.

All cabins and suites will be fully refurbished. “Using natural Scandinavian materials such as granite, oak, birch and wool, this will create a relaxed and stylish look and feel, and add to the premium onboard experience,” said Hurtigruten.

The refurbishments also include:

• On deck eight aft, in the current gym and sauna area, five large suites with panoramic windows and spectacular views will be added.
• Hurtigruten’s new expedition cruise main restaurant concept, Aune, will be added and serve breakfast, lunch and dinner based on a Scandinavian identity.
• Restaurant Lindstrøm, a specialty restaurant named after the favourite chef of Norwegian polar heroes, will be added.
• The informal eatery Fredheim, named after a legendary 1920s hunting station in Svalbard that sheltered adventurers from around the world will be added on deck seven.
• A new grill venue will be added outside on deck eight.
• Hurtigruten’s signature Science Centre will be added on deck four.
• A larger wellness area will be added on deck seven, and include a lounge, treatment rooms, gym and panoramic sauna.
• The outdoor pool area will be fully refurbished.
• The shop will be expanded.
• The car deck will be replaced by the launch area for Hurtigruten explorer boats and other expedition equipment.