2023 marks the 130th anniversary of the coastal route between Bergen and Kirkenes, which was initially developed to connect the people of Norway for mail, goods and passengers.
Discover the World offer clients a new collection of environmentally friendly Norwegian coastal voyages for 2023. Working with new operator Havila Voyages the collection of trips offers low footprint, local community support excursions including a fascinating glass bottomed canoe paddle over an ancient fjord settlement
Each journey explores the coast on board their state of the art vessels which offer the opportunity for silent, zero emission cruising and incredible local food.
2023 marks the 130th anniversary of the coastal route between Bergen and Kirkenes, which was initially developed to connect the people of Norway for mail, goods and passengers. In turn this route soon became one of the most popular ways for visitors to explore Norway’s breath-taking coastline with rugged cliffs, sea birds, harbours and pretty fishing villages.
First launching their operation just a year ago, Havila Voyages now offer the most environmentally-friendly ships sailing this route on board Havila Capella and Castor.
With just 179 cabins, they are by far the smallest vessels operating in this region allowing passengers incredible experiences such as viewing the Northern Lights and the midnight sun depending on the season.
As well as an extensive choice of excursions with a focus on small footprints and local community support, onboard dining options are true to the operator’s sustainability pledge using local produce and a la carte menus cutting down on food waste from the traditional buffet style of many cruise operators.
Passengers can enjoy a RIB safari to Saltstraumen, one of the world’s strongest tidal currents in the world to see the famous vortexes up close. Or, for something slower, they can paddle a glass bottomed canoe over an ancient fjord settlement which was flooded by a landslide in 1908. There’s also an art nouveau guided walk in Alesund, e-biking, hiking, King Crab fishing and the rare opportunity to explore the tiny hamlet of Urke with a population of just 50.
Discover the World is offering three new year-round trips, perfect for maximising the lengthening spring and summer days or booking ahead for winter adventures.
What’s more, solo passengers are offered a 50% discount on some cabin types on selected voyages when booked within 100 days of departure.
Havila Norwegian Coastal Voyage Round Trip – 11 night cruise
This classic Norwegian voyage sets sail from the city of Bergen, gateway to the fjords, and explores the entire coastline. Spend 11 nights on board as you cruise to the northernmost port of Kirkenes and back again, taking in the breath-taking fjords views, remote coastal towns and villages as well as the Lofoten Islands. A highlight will be reaching the North Cape plateau, high above the Arctic Circle.
Havila Norwegian Coastal Voyage Bergen to Kirkenes – six night cruise
This classic northbound cruise departs from the city of Bergen, gateway to the fjords, and sails to the northernmost port of Kirkenes high above the Arctic Circle. Spend six nights on board before leaving the cruise to travel home or onwards by land.
Havila Norwegian Coastal Voyages Kirkenes to Bergen – five night cruise
This classic southbound cruise sails from Kirkenes to the historic city of Bergen. You’ll spend five nights on board, with the chance to visit Lofoten’s many ports, sail between the myriad islands of the Helgeland coast, and have time to visit Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim and sample some of the city’s culinary delights.
Sustainability, food, excursions and style
The emphasis on sustainability runs through the cruise experience, from the food served on board to the energy-efficient hull design and the world’s largest battery packs. Charged from hydropower at each quay each vessel can sail silently for up to four hours with zero emissions. When battery power has been used the ship switches to LNG. This efficient hybrid operation, means that CO2 emissions are cut by around 25% and NOx emissions are reduced by around 90%.
Food served on board reflects the seasons and bounty of the seas around such as Norwegian fish soup, sashimi from rainbow trout, local berries, herrings and food using traditional salting methods to limit food miles.
The stylish interiors reflect Norwegian nature and there’s a gym, Jacuzzi and sauna. Cabins are spacious and all have TV, free Wifi and USB connectors, some with private balcony for optimal viewing and space.
Vicky is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the Editor-in Chief. She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales.
She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.
