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    Havila News Stories

    Havila Voyages crowned best in cruise cuisine featured image

    Havila Voyages crowned best in cruise cuisine

    London, November 11, 2024 – Havila Voyages has been awarded the “Best Cuisine” title at this year’s Wave Awards, which often is called the "Oscars" of cruising.

    Read more
    Historic christening in Hammerfest featured image

    Historic christening in Hammerfest

    Tuesday, October 15, 2024, was a historic day for the coastal route, as Ola Johannessen, a history enthusiast and employee at Hammerfest Port, pointed out that it was the first time a ship on the Bergen–Kirkenes route was christened in Finnmark.

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    Proudly “Made in Norway” featured image

    Proudly “Made in Norway”

    We’re thrilled to announce that Havila Voyages has officially earned the prestigious "Made in Norway" trademark from Innovation Norway.

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    Havila Voyages wins prestigious sustainability award featured image

    Havila Voyages wins prestigious sustainability award

    We are proud and humbled to share that Havila Voyages has won the Kreuzfahrt Guide Award 2024 in the sustainability category.

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    Havila Voyages is among the world's greatest places featured image

    Havila Voyages is among the world's greatest places

    We're excited to share that Havila Voyages has earned a spot on TIME Magazine's list of the "World's Greatest Places 2024."

    Read more
    Voted best on the Norwegian coast by Condé Nast Traveler featured image
    Spring Awakening in Geirangerfjord 2025 featured image

    New Voyage: Spring Awakening in Geirangerfjord 2025

    For the first time, our peaceful, silent sailings through Geirangerfjord are available in April and May, as well as the summer months! Experience the tranquil beauty of the UNESCO World Heritage fjord as it awakens from winter.

    Learn about springtime in Geiranger
    Into the Hjørundfjord with Zero Emissions featured image

    Into the Fjord with Zero Emissions

    "This Fjord is Important too"

    On the 9th of September 2022, Havila Castor sailed into the Hjørundfjord for the first time, entirely emission free. 

    Read the story
    “We Are Especially Proud of This Award” featured image

    “We Are Especially Proud of This Award”

    Havila Voyages has received yet another prestigious award, this time for its unique food concept.

    Read the good news!
    The Second Naming Ceremony featured image

    The Second Naming Ceremony

    On November 14, 2022, Havila Voyages' second star-ship was christened in Ålesund. Here's a recap... 

    See the recap
    Our First Ship-Star Is Officially Named featured image

    Our First Ship-Star Is Officially Named

    On November 8th, 2022, Havila Capella
    was christened by Godmother Hege Sævik
    Rabben. We commemorated the
    event in pictures.

    See the pictures
    Havila Voyages confirms ambition for emission-free coastal sailings by 2030 - with current ships featured image

    Havila Voyages confirms ambition for emission-free coastal sailings by 2030 - with current ships

    Havila Voyages has launched its first ever sustainability and human rights report.

    Read the story
    Two Last Ships Finally Delivered featured image

    Two Last Ships Finally Delivered

    “On this day, as we finally possess our own beautiful and state-of-the-art coastal cruise ships, with spacious cabins and providing a high level of comfort for everyone on board, it marks a significant milestone for the shipping company”, said CEO Bent Martini.

    Read the article

    Personal Havila Experiences

    Family Reunion along the Norwegian Coast featured image

    Family Reunion along the Norwegian Coast

    Guest blogger Leigh M. Bailey in a personal travel letter: "It had been five long years since we last visited our extended family in Norway, so when we had an opportunity to sign up for Havila Voyage’s Bergen-Kirkenes round-trip cruise in May, we did—with seven members of the family accompanying us along the way!"'

    Read the travel letter
    The Journey to the Northern Lights featured image

    The Journey to the Northern Lights

    A fervent hope of seeing the northern lights led Vicky and Paul all the way from Miami to Norway. What they experienced during their voyage along the Norwegian coast exceeded all expectations. 

    Read the story
    Girls on Tour featured image

    From Facebook Posts to Girls on Tour

    Chrissie Biddlecombe felt the need to travel, but didn't want to go on her own. Then, she caught sight of a Facebook post that was going to change everything.

    Read the story
    To Enjoy a Voyage from Port-to-Port featured image

    To Enjoy a Voyage from Port to Port

    Sometimes, sailing the fjords is necessary to get from A to B. At other times, it is simply the preferred option for the many port-to-port passengers traveling along the Norwegian coast.

    Read the story

    "Different and Fantastic"

    Isolation and Covid-restrictions triggered a desire for adventure among the Australian friends, so as soon as an opportunity arose, they booked a trip to Norway – and not just any trip.

    Read the story
    Travelled the World only to Find the Perfect Escape Next Door featured image

    Travelled the World only to Find the Perfect Escape Next Door

    The Swedish Anette and Håkan Ljungqvist had travelled the world, but the Norwegian Coastal Route had only been a subject of conversation – for 20 years. Then, on her 60th birthday, Anette was surprised by her husband.

    Read the story
    Hitched the return with Havila Voyages featured image

    Hitched the return with Havila Voyages

    “It was a test of patience and a continuous battle against the weather, but the moment I stepped onto the Havila Capella, it felt like everything was turned upside down“

    Read the story
    From Ship Mates to Kindred Spirits featured image

    From Ship Mates to Kindred Spirits

    Veronica and Lise, colleagues on Havila Pollux, share a unique connection. They walk, talk, and laugh in the same way, and even finish each other's sentences. Yet, they are not related - they are “twin souls”.

    Read the story about the unusual friendship
    The Globetrotter featured image

    The Globetrotter

    Maitê, 34, boasts a passport stamped from over 40 countries. Yet Norway has captured the top spot on her list of favourites – a sentiment that blossomed during a round trip with Havila Voyages.

    Read the story
    The Birthday Present on the Post Ship Route featured image

    The Birthday Present on the Post Ship Route

    It was a Birthday Present. Roger turned 60 last year, and by then, he had already been talking about the "post ship tour" (the route of the mail boat) on the Norwegian fjords for a while.

    Read the story
    A Romantic Honeymoon Along the Norwegian Coast featured image

    A Romantic Honeymoon Along the Norwegian Coast

    Sabrina and Daniele from Italy found love in Tuscany, but their honeymoon adventure unfolded along Norway's spectacular coastline. With Havila Voyages, their week-long getaway exceeded their expectations, surpassing what they could have achieved on their own.

    Get inspired by their love story
    12 Days to Falling in Love featured image

    12 Days to Falling in Love

    “Secretly, when I booked the trip for solo travelers, I hoped to meet some interesting single men also traveling alone, perhaps looking for someone special, maybe the love of their life,” shared Betsy M. Blan, an American, during our meeting with her aboard. One thing is certain: the American, now living in the Netherlands, has had one of the best travel experiences of her life!

    Get inspired by Betsy's story!
    He found the solution along the Norwegian coast featured image
    Meet the Summers featured image

    Meet the Summers

    Traveling solo can be a blessing because it means that I’m able to establish contact with all kinds of people with interesting stories to tell. It mostly happens during an excursion or – as today – while waiting for the ship to dock.

    Read the story
    Anita, the Captain and Havila Capella featured image

    Anita, the Captain, and the Havila Capella

    "I have not missed the Queen a single time. Sometimes, when my husband suggests that we visit the camping site, I say, 'But Capella is coming!' And he replies, 'You cannot be that crazy.'" But Anita is indeed that "crazy," and she admits it willingly.

    Read the story
    A Journey Along the Norwegian Coast featured image

    There Was this Dream about a Journey

    In this travel letter, guest blogger Emil Skartveit is sharing his experiences after a round trip with Havila Voyages in January 2023.

    Read the travelogue
    The Family Adventure featured image

    A Family Adventure

    Organizing a voyage for eleven members of a three-generational family living in two different countries, while ensuring that everyone is entertained for a whole week, is easier said than done. This family found the perfect solution. 

    Read the story

    Historical Stories from the Norwegian Coast

    Memories from a Coastal Life on the Coastal Express Route featured image

    Memories from a Coastal Life and an Encounter with a War Criminal

    Sten Magne Engen, a former captain of the MS Finnmarken, has a wealth of cherished memories from his time on this historic vessel, now on display at the Coastal Express Museum. However, amidst the fond recollections, there remains a haunting encounter with a war criminal – the man responsible for sinking the DS Irma during World War II.

    Read the story
    The Birth of the Coastal Express featured image

    Captain Richard With and the Birth of the Coastal Express

    Captain Richard With was well aware of the historical significance that reducing the sailing time from Bergen to Tromsø would hold for his company. Perhaps that's why he humorously remarked during the construction of the new D/S 'Vesteraalen,' 'This vessel must be handled with extra care, as it is destined to serve as a coastal express.

    Read the story
    The Homecoming of the DS Finmarken featured image

    The Homecoming of the DS Finmarken

    This is the remarkable story of how the D/S Finmarken, built in 1912, mysteriously appeared in a forest in the Netherlands and how she eventually was brought back to Norway almost more than 40 years later.

    Read the story
    Anna's Tale featured image

    Anna's Tale – A Glimpse into the Life of a Pre-Industrial Coastal Woman

    Imagine living with the constant fear of not knowing whether your loved ones would return from work or if your children would survive illnesses or accidents at sea. This was the harsh reality faced by Norwegian coastal women, and "Anna at Vinje" was no exception. This story sheds light on her life and the challenges she encountered.

    Read the story
    The Boy in the Pasvik Valley featured image

    The Boy in the Pasvik Valley: A Portrait

    Ernst Sneve, 84, spent his early years in one of Norway's most war-ravaged regions. Now he is a guide, sharing his experiences with Havila Voyages' guests. And oh, the tales he has to tell!

    Read the story
    The Forgotten History Behind the Origin of the Coastal Route featured image

    The Forgotten History Behind the Origin of the Coastal Route

    Captain Richard With's pioneering Coastal Express voyage is a familiar tale in Norway. However, few realize that the 130-year-old narrative about the Norwegian coastal route traces its roots back to a salt-carrying vessel in the Eidsfjord in 1880.

    Read the story
    Coastal Route History featured image

    The Story Behind the Express Coastal Route

    In 1893, the first express shipping route along the long western coast of Norway was established, linking the peoples and communities together.

    Read the story

    Inspirational

    Spring Awakening in Geirangerfjord 2025 featured image

    New Voyage: Spring Awakening in Geirangerfjord 2025

    For the first time, our peaceful, silent sailings through Geirangerfjord are available in April and May, as well as the summer months! Experience the tranquil beauty of the UNESCO World Heritage fjord as it awakens from winter.

    Learn about springtime in Geiranger
    Into the Hjørundfjord with Zero Emissions featured image

    Into the Fjord with Zero Emissions

    "This Fjord is Important too"

    On the 9th of September 2022, Havila Castor sailed into the Hjørundfjord for the first time, entirely emission free. 

    Read the story
    Family Reunion along the Norwegian Coast featured image

    Family Reunion along the Norwegian Coast

    Guest blogger Leigh M. Bailey in a personal travel letter: "It had been five long years since we last visited our extended family in Norway, so when we had an opportunity to sign up for Havila Voyage’s Bergen-Kirkenes round-trip cruise in May, we did—with seven members of the family accompanying us along the way!"'

    Read the travel letter
    The Plastic Warriors featured image

    The Plastic Warriors

    Armed with garbage bags and litter pickers, the unwavering crew of Havila Voyages took on the momentous task of cleaning up the litter along the docks of Ålesund!

    Read the story
    A TROLL STORY featured image

    The Mysterious Mountain Tunnel:

    A TROLL STORY

    Trolls. In Norway, we have many legends about these large, stupid, and extremely dangerous mythical creatures. One of them is about the origin of a unique mountain with a hole in the middle: Torghatten.

    Read the story
    Girls on Tour featured image

    From Facebook Posts to Girls on Tour

    Chrissie Biddlecombe felt the need to travel, but didn't want to go on her own. Then, she caught sight of a Facebook post that was going to change everything.

    Read the story
    To Enjoy a Voyage from Port-to-Port featured image

    To Enjoy a Voyage from Port to Port

    Sometimes, sailing the fjords is necessary to get from A to B. At other times, it is simply the preferred option for the many port-to-port passengers traveling along the Norwegian coast.

    Read the story
    On the Atlantic Road and into a Marble Mine featured image

    On the Atlantic Roadand into a Marble Mine

    The Atlantic Road is known as one of the world’s most beautiful roadways. We experienced it at its very best. Then, we went to the Bergtatt marble mine – in the center of a mountain.

    View the visual story

    "Different and Fantastic"

    Isolation and Covid-restrictions triggered a desire for adventure among the Australian friends, so as soon as an opportunity arose, they booked a trip to Norway – and not just any trip.

    Read the story
    Unveiling the Hidden Gems of the Hjørundfjord featured image

    Unveiling the Hidden Gems of the Hjørundfjord

    Surrounded by the breathtaking Sunnmøre Alps, lies Norangsdalen, one of Norway's narrowest and most awe-inspiring valleys. Our journey took us along paths once taken by historical celebrities and royalty, as we uncovered the hidden natural wonders of the Hjørundfjord.

    Read the travelogue
    Discover Havila Voyages featured image

    Discover Havila Voyages

    Imagine cruising through breathtaking fjords, discovering hidden gems in charming coastal towns, and soaking in the pure beauty of nature — all while enjoying modern comforts that make you feel like a true explorer. If you're craving an experience that blends luxury with the rugged charm of Norway’s coastline, it's time to hop aboard and let the adventure begin. Ready to set sail? Norway’s waiting.

    Get to know Havila Voyages
    Solar Activity Exceeding Predictions featured image

    Solar Activity Exceeding Predictions: Will Produce More Northern Lights!

    According to NASA, Solar Activity is increasing and will continue to do so until it reaches peak levels in 2025. That bodes well for the northern lights.

    Read more
    Revealing the Secrets of the Northern Lights featured image

    Revealing the Secrets of the Northern Lights

    Veronica Danielsen, a physicist, science artist, and budding author, uncovers some mysteries of the Northern Lights and offers insights on what to watch for when trying to spot them.

    Read the story
    Hitched the return with Havila Voyages featured image

    Hitched the return with Havila Voyages

    “It was a test of patience and a continuous battle against the weather, but the moment I stepped onto the Havila Capella, it felt like everything was turned upside down“

    Read the story
    From Ship Mates to Kindred Spirits featured image

    From Ship Mates to Kindred Spirits

    Veronica and Lise, colleagues on Havila Pollux, share a unique connection. They walk, talk, and laugh in the same way, and even finish each other's sentences. Yet, they are not related - they are “twin souls”.

    Read the story about the unusual friendship
    The Globetrotter featured image

    The Globetrotter

    Maitê, 34, boasts a passport stamped from over 40 countries. Yet Norway has captured the top spot on her list of favourites – a sentiment that blossomed during a round trip with Havila Voyages.

    Read the story
    The Birthday Present on the Post Ship Route featured image

    The Birthday Present on the Post Ship Route

    It was a Birthday Present. Roger turned 60 last year, and by then, he had already been talking about the "post ship tour" (the route of the mail boat) on the Norwegian fjords for a while.

    Read the story
    He found the solution along the Norwegian coast featured image
    Havila Food Stories featured image

    Havila Food Stories

    At Havila Voyages, our menus are thoughtfully crafted to showcase the rich flavors and culinary heritage of the coastal communities that our ships voyage through along the Norwegian coast. However, our food concept extends beyond this. Here's what you should know about Havila Food Stories.

    Explore Havila Voyages' unique food concept

    Excursions

    A Journey to the Edge of the World featured image

    A Journey to the Edge of the World

    "Here I am at the North Cape, at the edge of Finnmark, and I dare say the very edge of the world”, wrote North Cape’s first tourist. I have now been there myself – and the story of that adventure is worth telling.

    Read the travel letter from the North Cape plateau
    Geiranger and Trollstigen featured image

    Geiranger and Trollstigen

    In the heart of Norway's untamed fjord landscape lie two of the country's most iconic natural wonders – the Geirangerfjord and Trollstigen.

    Read the travelogue
    The RIB Adventure featured image

    The RIB Adventure

    Stella Polaris' RIB safari is ranked among the best excursions along the Norwegian coast. I now understand why - and it has nothing to do with the thrill of speed. 

    Read the RIB Safari story
    A TROLL STORY featured image

    The Mysterious Mountain Tunnel:

    A TROLL STORY

    Trolls. In Norway, we have many legends about these large, stupid, and extremely dangerous mythical creatures. One of them is about the origin of a unique mountain with a hole in the middle: Torghatten.

    Read the story
    On the Atlantic Road and into a Marble Mine featured image

    On the Atlantic Roadand into a Marble Mine

    The Atlantic Road is known as one of the world’s most beautiful roadways. We experienced it at its very best. Then, we went to the Bergtatt marble mine – in the center of a mountain.

    View the visual story
    A Taste of Vesterålen featured image

    A Taste of Vesterålen

    This may just be a small piece of Norway, but the impressions I now have of this stunning area, enriched by its culture and history, will stay with me forever.

    Read the travelouge
    Unveiling the Hidden Gems of the Hjørundfjord featured image

    Unveiling the Hidden Gems of the Hjørundfjord

    Surrounded by the breathtaking Sunnmøre Alps, lies Norangsdalen, one of Norway's narrowest and most awe-inspiring valleys. Our journey took us along paths once taken by historical celebrities and royalty, as we uncovered the hidden natural wonders of the Hjørundfjord.

    Read the travelogue
    The Vibrant Mount Fløyen featured image

    The Vibrant Mount Fløyen

    How many cities can claim a mountain right in their city center? Bergen is one of the few. 

    Read the story and see the pictures
    Discover Your Summer Thrill featured image

    Discover Your Summer Thrill

    19 Ideas for Incredible Summer Activities with Havila Voyages

    Whether you're seeking an exhilarating adventure or a peaceful escape along the stunning Norwegian coastline, we can make your dreams a reality.

    Get inspired
    Exploring Trondheim by Wooden Boat featured image

    Exploring Trondheimby Wooden Boat

    Cruising down the Nidelva River in a traditional clinker-built wooden boat provided a unique perspective on Trondheim's rich culture and history. Each landmark we passed, from the majestic Nidaros Cathedral to the quaint Old Town Bridge, offered a glimpse into the city's storied past.

    See the pictures and read the story
    Get ready for a Nordic Spring Adventure featured image

    Get Ready for a Nordic Spring Adventure!

    At Havila Voyages, our commitment goes beyond offering exceptional travel experiences. We are also dedicated to environmental responsibility. Here are eight eco-friendly spring adventures you can enjoy with Havila Voyages!

    See the excursions and get inspired!
    A Visit with the Sámi featured image

    A Visit with the Sámi

    «Nature is our culture», say the Sámi people. Perhaps we all have something to learn from the indigenous of the north?

    Get inspired by the Sámi culture
    Discover the Depths of the Norwegian Coast featured image

    Discover the Depths of the Norwegian Coast

    The Atlanterhavsparken (Atlantic Ocean Park) in Ålesund features an aquarium, a seal bay, penguins, an otter island, a science center, and art exhibitions. Learn about the life beneath the sea surface.

    See and read the visual story
    The Boy in the Pasvik Valley featured image

    The Boy in the Pasvik Valley: A Portrait

    Ernst Sneve, 84, spent his early years in one of Norway's most war-ravaged regions. Now he is a guide, sharing his experiences with Havila Voyages' guests. And oh, the tales he has to tell!

    Read the story
    A Husky Visit in the Wilderness of Tromsø featured image

    A Husky Visit in the Wilderness of Tromsø

    The dogs train during the summer, but as soon as the first snow falls, they sit in front of their houses, eager to start working. 

    Read about the husky life
    Trondheim: A Walking Tour Full of Surprises featured image

    Trondheim: A Walking Tour Full of Surprises

    You can experience the highlights of Trondheim in just a few hours in the morning. A five-kilometre walk takes you through 1,000 years of history.

    Read the full story about the cultural walk in Trondheim
    Meet the Summers featured image

    Meet the Summers

    Traveling solo can be a blessing because it means that I’m able to establish contact with all kinds of people with interesting stories to tell. It mostly happens during an excursion or – as today – while waiting for the ship to dock.

    Read the story
    Six Winter Activities to Cross Off Your Bucket List featured image

    Six Winter Activities to Cross off your Bucket List

    You know those singular authentic experiences that linger in your body and stick in your memory for the rest of your life? Here are seven good suggestions for activities you can do with Havila Voyages during the winter. 

    Read more
    Spring & Winter Fjord Cruising: Exploring Geiranger's Heritagee featured image

    Spring & Winter Fjord Cruising: Exploring Geiranger's Heritage

    "The journey took us past many small villages, nestled among increasingly imposing mountains. As we approached Stranda, a significant village, Nicole suggested we go to the outer deck for a better view."

    View the visual story
    Viking Trails and Nordic Tales featured image

    Viking Trails and Nordic Tales

    How did the Norwegian landscape form? Where did the first Norwegians come from, and were the Vikings truly raiders or traders? These questions – and many more – were explored during a guided hike along the coast and into a forest grove in Lofoten.

    Discover a wealth of insight and inspiration in this travelogue!