A-Rosa has ordered a new battery-powered ship that will help the cruise line reduce emissions. 

The ship, which will be built in the Netherlands and delivered in spring 2021, will feature an emission-free ‘E-Motion’ battery power concept, to be used when approaching a city. The vessel will be equipped with a shore power connection to charge the battery overnight. 

A-Rosa CEO Jorg Eichler said: “This new ship features innovations never seen on a river ship before and it heralds the future of travel on the rivers – both in terms of use of space and sustainability. With 140 cabins, a length of 135 metres, a width of 17.7 metres plus a fourth deck, it enables us to offer more space than ever before.

“Sustainability is so important for us both in terms of the environmental and social responsibility. We appointed Matthias Lutter in January as head of new builds, a expert in the field of alternative drives. Together with the shipyard he has developed an ‘E-Motion’ concept which will help us ensure that we are playing a vital role in protecting the cities that we sail to.”

Other highlights include technology to reduce fuel consumption and a range of family features, including large cabins sleeping up to five people, a children’s pool and a dedicated kids’ club area. The restaurant will also have a dedicated children’s area.

There will be an enlarged spa and wellness area with sauna, whirlpool, gym, ice room, heat-bench and various treatment rooms. 

A-Rosa UK and Ireland MD Lucia Rowe added: “This new ship really is a prototype on Europe’s rivers and something we haven’t seen before. It will open up river cruising to a completely different market segment with a host of new facilities and features tailored to the whole family.

“We want to attract the growing multi-generational sector and encourage a much younger audience to consider river cruising as a family holiday choice.”

A second ship is planned for 2023.