Havila Voyages has announced more details of a new, more environmentally responsible way to explore the Norwegian coast from Summer 2021.
The new Norwegian shipping company has ordered four new build ships, designed to be the most environmentally friendly vessels to operate along the iconic coastal route from Bergen to Kirkenes. The first two ships (Havila Castor and Havila Capella) will operate from 2021, with two more (Havila Polaris and Havila Pollux) following in 2022.
The ships are operating as part of a ten-year Government funded contract to sail the historic route, with Havila operating four of the 11 ships departing daily from Bergen.
Matthew Valentine, UK Country Manager commented “The voyage along the Norwegian coast is iconic, and a journey we wish to preserve for future generations. We therefore felt it was only right to utilise the latest technology and make environmentally based decisions when ordering ships that will sail through these pristine waters. Our guests will be able to immerse themselves in this magical experience, staying in spacious cabins, enjoying gourmet cuisine and participating in a whole host of local excursions – all while sailing on the most environmentally ships running along the Norwegian coast.”
Protecting vulnerable areas with the World’s largest battery packs
Each of the new ships will be fitted with the world’s largest battery packs, meaning they can sail through fjords and other vulnerable areas for up to four hours – quietly and emission free. The batteries will then be charged in the numerous ports along the route, using clean hydropower.
Additionally, the hull has been specially designed to be energy efficient in the Norwegian coastal conditions – using as little power and therefore emissions as possible. Meanwhile, surplus heat is recovered from the cooling water, the sea and the energy management system. The combination of these changes means that each ship’s CO2 emissions have been cut by around 25% and Nox by 80-90%.
Modern and stylish Nordic design
The new ships will showcase a modern & stylish Nordic design and offer the most spacious cabins on the coastal route.
Inside cabins start from 10m2, while the two presidential suites on each ship offer a spacious 45m2. Some larger cabins will sleep up to four guests and disabled cabins are also available. All 179 cabins feature free WIFI, USB outlets & a television.
Comfortable lounges with panoramic views will give guests the best possible views of Norway’s ever-changing coastline. The observation lounge has been designed with a glass roof and reclining chairs – ideal for uninterrupted views of the northern lights or midnight sun. Those who wish to feel the wind in their hair can marvel at the scenery from the spacious deck and promenade areas, or take a jacuzzi as they look out over the mountains and fjords.
Norwegian culinary delights
One of the highlights of the Havila journey will be the on-board culinary experience. Menus have been carefully selected to reflect Norway’s heritage and culinary traditions using the highest quality Norwegian produce, prepared by first-class chefs and served in restaurants and spaces that reflect the landscape the ships are passing. The menus have also been designed to minimise food waste.
Guests on full board basis will be served a choice of dishes in the main dining room. Those looking for something even more special can book the more exclusive A La Carte restaurant, while hot and cold food will also be available for purchase in the café.
A wealth of local experiences – including four UNESCO Heritage sites
The twelve-day Havila Voyage takes in 34 different ports and sails through narrow fjords and open seas, past sheer cliffs and weather beaten islets.
Along the way, the ships pass through four UNESCO Heritage sites, cross the Arctic circle twice and offers the ideal setting in which to experience the Northern lights in Winter or Midnight Sun in Summer.
Guests can choose to join the round trip, complete just the Northern or Southern journey or even spend two or three days on-board to get a flavour of coastal Norway.
A phenomenal range of organised excursions are offered such as a whale safari, king crab fishing in a frozen fjord, dog-sledding in the Arctic wilderness or snowmobiling across the North Cape Plateau.
An affordable way to explore Northern Norway
Prices start from £241 per person for a two-day trip from Trondheim to Bergen on cabin only basis.
The six-day Southbound voyage from Kirkenes to Bergen starts from £497 per person, while the twelve-day round trip costs from £829 per person on full board basis.
The full 12 day round trip in the lavish Presidential Suite costs from a surprising £4,737 per person on full board basis.
(Prices based on departures from 15-31 December 2021).
A range of payment options are offered with cheaper, non-refundable rates or a choice of more flexible options.
Bookings can now be made through travel agents but will also be bookable on https://havilavoyages.com/, later in 2020.
So, what do you think? Would you sail through Norway on Havila? let me know in the comments and on social media.