Havila Voyages has provided cruises to explore the Norwegian coast since as far back as the 1950s. They pride themselves on sustainability, with high-quality design and dining. Havila offers excursions from outdoor exploration to experiencing cultural tradition, and of course a chance to spot the Northern Lights.
They have recently become recognized for their sustainability efforts, and continue to improve their ships for the best experience possible. We spoke to Matthew Valentine, the UK Head of Sales for Havila, about what is upcoming for them and how it all began.
How did it all start?
Ships have sailed the Norwegian coastal route, from the city of Bergen up to Kirkenes in the far north for 130 years. The ships, which over the years have been operated by several different shipping businesses, are contracted by the Norwegian Government and started as a way to connect the rural coastal communities for mail, and cargo and as a mode of local travel.
The route is still used for those purposes today but, perhaps unsurprisingly for such a magnificent stretch of coastline, it is now popular with international travellers too. Per Saevik, founder of Havila Voyages started his working life as a fisherman here and bought his first boat at the age of 16 years. Over the years, he built up the Havila Group, which operates a selection of shipping-related businesses. Per always had a dream to be involved in the Norwegian coastal route and in his 80s, he fulfilled his dream when he set up Havila Voyages.
What differentiates Havila from other cruise lines?
Havila isn’t like a traditional cruise line. The ships are considered critical local infrastructure and operate both as working ships (carrying cargo and local people) as well as cruises for holidaymakers from around the world.
Our four ships operate in rotation along the Norwegian coast from Bergen to Kirkenes on the Russian border. Here they turn around and start their journey southbound. The full 12-day voyage sails through narrow fjords and open seas, past sheer cliffs and weather-beaten islets. Along the way, they pass through four UNESCO Heritage sites and cross the Arctic Circle twice – it’s a spectacular journey!
While there are traditional cruise lines that sail off the coast of Norway, they offer a very ‘international’ experience onboard and only visit larger ports. The Norwegian coastal ships hug the coast and stop at both cities and small out-of-the-way settlements along the way. It is a very ‘Norwegian’ experience with Norwegian food, Norwegian staff and Norwegian-run excursions – great for those looking for a more immersive experience. Guests should expect fantastic hospitality and food, but not the range of entertainment found on board a traditional ship. On our ships, the stunning coastline and nature take centre stage.
Havila made history back in 2022 by opening the first zero-emission passenger ship sailing through Geirangerfjord—tell us about this?
From its inception, Havila Voyages has been focused on offering a more sustainable way to travel. The company invested in four new ships designed both to harness existing technology and to be ready for the future. Each one features one of the world’s largest battery packs on a ship. This allows them to sail quietly and emission-free for up to four hours at a time and the batteries can (where local infrastructure allows) be recharged using clean hydropower. This is especially important in vulnerable areas such as the UNESCO-protected fjords.
We’ve found that as well as being better for the environment, the quieter ships are also enhancing the experience for our guests who can hear much more of their surrounding environment – such as waterfalls along the edge of the fjord. These noises are drowned out by the sound of the engines on older ships.
When not using battery power, the ships are powered by LNG, cutting CO2 emissions by 35%. We were really excited to operate the first zero-emission sailing through the UNESCO fjords, but our work didn’t stop there. Our ultimate goal is to operate the whole 12-day voyage emission-free, and we continue to invest heavily in making that a reality.
What are some smaller ways Havila is mitigating a negative environmental impact?
There are a multitude of initiatives used by Havila Voyages, such as reusing surplus heat from the ship’s water, sea and energy management systems to heat the tap water and showers in the cabins.
However, one of my favourite initiatives is our local food concept. There are no buffets and you can choose from a menu of small plates which change as you travel up the coast. They can order as many plates as they want, but this approach is not only enjoyed by guests, it also keeps waste to a minimum.
Interior design aboard incorporates both Norwegian art and stories from coastal women and the indigenous coastal people of the North. Tell us about the interiors and how does this fit with Havila’s values?
Havila set out to create ships which connect local communities and create an immersive experience for our cruise passengers. We therefore wanted a design that feels like it fits seamlessly into the surrounding landscape and incorporates the use of natural, local materials. At the same time, we wanted a modern, practical, stylish Nordic style.
We are very focused on creating jobs and businesses for the communities we visit along the route. With that in mind, we have worked with local furniture suppliers, designers and artists and have given them a platform to promote themselves to an international market.
For many cruise passengers, the ship is their destination. That isn’t the case with us – guests are there to immerse themselves in their surroundings. So, the ships have been designed to allow the best possible views of the coastline. The common areas feature floor-to-ceiling windows and in some places, you can see down, up or across in multiple directions, ensuring that you always feel connected to the sea.
We have carefully thought through every detail to ensure the cabins are functional and practical as well as aesthetically pleasing. They even include a ‘Northern Lights button’ so guests can decide whether they wish to be woken if the incredible natural phenomenon appears during the nighttime hours. It goes without saying that the majority of our guests turn it on – for many, an appearance by the magical lights is the highlight of their trip.
Tell us about The Northern Lights Promise and how this started?
Havila Voyages’ ships offer the perfect place to explore the Arctic skies, as they sail under the aurora oval and away from the light pollution on land. Passengers can stay warm in the onboard jacuzzi while they watch the skies dance, or head to the lounge, where a glass roof and reclining chairs allow them to relax while they enjoy the views.
While the lights can be seen from September onwards, we are so confident that guests taking the round voyage from October to March will experience them, that we introduced a ‘Northern Lights Promise’. If the lights don’t appear during their 11-night cruise, guests will be given a free six or seven-night cruise the following winter.
The Northern Lights are a large attraction for Havila guests, but what are some other must-see elements in winter and summer?
Many British guests choose to travel during the winter months, but interestingly that is our low season overall from other markets who recognise there is so much to see at other times of year. Every season brings something new to offer. Spring on the coast is often referred to as ‘three seasons in one’. Bergen at the southern end of the route is warming up quickly and the more southern fjords are becoming green and bursting with wildflowers. By the time we reach Northern Norway a few days later, we are still in the grip of the cold Arctic winter.
Summer is a beautiful time to travel and really explore the incredible fjords under the midnight sun.
The Norwegian coastline is one of the most beautiful on earth. Which are the more popular excursions, and what makes them a favourite?
Whenever you travel, there are plenty of opportunities to explore and gain insight into the region and the lives of the people who live here. Excursions vary depending on the time of year. During the winter months husky sledding and snowmobiling are really popular. During the summer months, hiking and cycling are a great way to explore this unique area.
Trips to the North Cape are popular all year round. We travel from the ship through a fascinatingly barren landscape – it’s too far north here for trees! The North Cape is the European continent’s most northerly point, on a plateau that rises 307 metres straight up from the Arctic Ocean. On a clear day, the view of the horizon is so wide that you can even see the earth’s curve!
Tell us all about the dining concept aboard Havila Voyages?
The culinary experience is one of the highlights of the journey. Each of the ports along the Norwegian coastal route has its own specialities and traditional dishes. There are no buffets or set menus – guests enjoy a choice of dishes using the best ingredients from the sun-kissed mountainsides of the fjords and fish from one of the most unspoiled coastlines in the world.
While there are always more international options available, those who wish to can enjoy the best cuisine that Norway has to offer. Highlights include glossy white cod, the golden cloudberries that only grow in the high north, the famous king crab and ‘lefser’ griddle cakes that perfectly compliment a cup of coffee. For something even more special, guests can upgrade to a fine dining restaurant.
Norwegian Constitution Day is 17 May—how does Havila celebrate?
Constitution Day is a great time to be onboard, with a convivial atmosphere and plenty of celebrations throughout the day. The crew dress in their local ‘Bunad’ (traditional dress) and Norwegian specialities are served.
The plans for each ship vary slightly depending on which ports it is that day, but guests are often invited to join local parades and festivities on land as well as joining the crew in celebrating onboard. It’s a great opportunity to party with the locals and one of the most fun days of the year.
What is next for Havila?
The business has a continued focus on sustainability and that is at the heart of every decision we make. We believe it is possible to combine a great experience with a more responsible way to travel. But we don’t stand still. As technology improves we will continue to make the most of the options open to us. We are on track to be carbon neutral by 2028 and expect to operate emission-free by 2030.
To find out more visit, Havilavoyages.com
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All imagery from Havila Cruises.