Havila Voyages has taken delivery of its first ship, Havella Capella, which is due to start operating along the Norwegian coast on December 1.
The shipping company has ordered four new build vessels in total - the second ship will be delivered in January with two further ships arriving in the summer of 2022.
The ships are operating as part of a 10-year government contract to sail the historic route, with Havila operating four of the 11 vessels departing daily. The twelve-day voyage takes in 34 different coastal ports, passes through four UNESCO Heritage sites and crosses the Arctic circle twice.
The CEO of Havila Voyages, Bent Martini commented ?We have been looking forward to this day for many months and are delighted to have taken delivery of our first ship. Launching a brand-new shipping company is a very special event to be part of, especially given this is the largest investment in tourism we have seen along the Norwegian coast.?
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.
A myriad of other features are also designed to lessen the impact of their operations such as using energy generated from surplus heat, energy monitoring systems and the use of liquid natural gas.
The observation lounge is fitted with a glass roof and reclining chairs so guests can stay warm while enjoying views of the northern lights or midnight sun. Meanwhile, there will also be a chance to see scenery from the spacious deck and promenade areas.
The ships offer two restaurants and a caf? offering both traditional Norwegian dishes and modern combinations based on Norwegian ingredients. Those travelling on full board basis will be served a choice of dishes in the main dining room, while guests looking for something special can upgrade to the fine dining restaurant.
The ship will shortly embark on the journey from Turkey to Norway, accompanied by a team from Havila Voyages who will prepare the ship for her first voyage.
