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    “We Are Especially Proud of This Award”

    Havila Capella: Head chef Olai Mandal and assistant head chef Silje Beate Olsen. Photograph by Martin Nygaard/ Q-Meieriene

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

    "This is a prize we are especially proud of," stated Ole Christian Siverstøl, Head of Hotel Operations at Havila Voyages. The company received the “Food Saver Award” (“Matredderprisen”) from the Norwegian dairy company Q-Meieriene on Thursday, November 16. Along with a framed diploma, the shipping company was awarded a gift check of 10,000 NOK.

    “At Havila Voyages, we place a strong emphasis on sustainability in every aspect of our operations, from the construction of our ships to the management of our onboard hotels and restaurants. Therefore, it's particularly rewarding to receive an award that acknowledges the daily efforts made by every individual on board.”

    Portrait of Ole Christian Siverstøl
    Ole Christian Siverstøl, Head of Hotel Operations at Havila Voyages.

    Why Havila Voyages Won the Food Saver Award

    According to the jury from Q-meieriene, the reason behind the award is significant; "By eliminating buffet service, you have reduced food waste on board your ships, equating to a yearly reduction of 60 tons. This is not only economically sustainable but also environmentally beneficial. Congratulations on the Q Matredderprisen!"

    The company's food concept, Havila Food Stories, has effectively managed to reduce food waste on board to under 75 grams per guest per day. The extensive use of locally sourced and sustainable food is a key feature of this concept. Additionally, the option for guests to order multiple small dishes for breakfast and lunch allows for a varied dining experience without the concern of overeating.

    "The fact that Havila Voyages has managed to cut down food waste by 60 tons per year is impressive and motivating for others, and that's exactly the idea behind the Q Food Saver Award," said Brand Manager Pål Rasmussen of Q-Meieriene.

    From the left: Food and Project Manager at Kavli Norway; Tore C. Jacobsen, F&B Manager; Paulo Caqueiro, Hotel Manager; Olav Larssen, Assistant Kitchen Manager; Silje Beate Olsen, Kitchen Manager; Olai Mandal, and Pål Rasmussen, Brand Manager at Q-meieriene.

    Photograph by Martin Nygaard/Q-Meieriene

    Onboard Food Testing Experience

    The Q Food Saver Award was extended to all four of Havila Voyages's ships: Havila Capella, Havila Castor, Havila Polaris, and Havila Pollux. However, it was the crew of Havila Capella who had the honor of receiving the award in person in Bergen on November 16. Among the attendees from Q-Meieriene was Tore C. Jacobsen, Food and Project Manager at Kavli Norway, who described the service as incredible. "We had a fantastic tour on board and sampled the food. We tried three appetizers, three main courses, and the best-selling dessert, 'Coastal Gold,' made of cream rand and sea buckthorn. It tasted exquisite," he remarked.

    Innovative Menu and Portion Management

    In addition to the innovative concept of menu design that helps reduce food waste, Jacobsen noted the adequate portion sizes served. This approach not only addresses food waste but also prevents 'plate waste.'

    Jacobsen believes guests, who might typically expect buffet service on such ships, will positively receive Havila Voyages’ food concept once they understand its background. "That's why it's excellent that the company openly discusses the reasons for eliminating the buffet," he explained.

    Kitchen Manager holding the prize

    Olai Mandal, Kitchen Manager, at Havila Capella. 

    Photograph by Martin Nygaard for Q-meieriene.

    Honoring the Employees' Efforts

    As for the use of the 10,000 NOK, Siverstøl said that it's still undecided. "However, it's likely that the money will be used to support our employees in collaboration with our guests, who deserve much credit for this achievement."

    Havila Voyages has also been nominated for the “Matredderprisen 2024” (Food Saver Award 2024), worth 50,000 NOK, to be presented at Q-Meieriene's food saver day on June 5, 2024.

     

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