Havila Voyages UK country manager Matthew Valentine sets out the new line’s plan to start cruise operations in 2021 and the importance of building trade relationships.
When Havila Voyages was set up in 2017, no one could have predicted quite how different life would be now. It is therefore heartwarming that, despite the challenging environment in which we are operating, the launch of our new line has been very warmly received.
While many UK agents and operators will be aware of the Norwegian coastal route, Havila will most likely be a brand that is unfamiliar to them.
The company was the dream of Per Saevik, who grew up on the west coast of Norway. His father was a fisherman and Per joined the industry at the tender age of 12. A few years later when he bought his first boat, the Havila Group was born. It now employs several thousand people in a range of businesses, including shipping.
For years Per saw the coastal ships pass his office window and dreamed of being part of the operation he had grown up watching from afar. In 2021, his dream will become a reality and he will be able to watch his own ships sailing by on their regular trips from Bergen to Kirkenes.
Preserve and protect
Our first two ships are under construction and will operate in 2021, with a further two ships joining the ship the following year. One of the outstanding features of these vessels will be their environmental credentials.
Our ships will sail through four UNESCO sites and many areas of outstanding natural beauty. We are passionate about doing everything we can to protect the coastline for generations to come. With that in mind, each will be fitted with one of the world’s largest battery packs.
These will allow them to sail through fjords and other vulnerable areas for up to four hours – quietly and emission free. The batteries will then be charged using clean hydropower. They will be the most environmentally friendly ships operating along the Norwegian coast.
Guests will enjoy a range of unique and authentic Norwegian cultural experiences, whether that be through local music or experiences such as husky sledding or snowmobiling and sampling the local cuisine.
Dining is also an important part of the experience and I expect it to be a highlight of the voyage for many. It is seated dining, so there are no buffets, and guests will be able to choose from a range of traditional and modern Norwegian dishes – all locally sourced.
I’m very proud of the on-board experience we will be delivering, but of course the highlight for many of our UK guests will be seeing the Midnight Sun or magical Northern Lights. Whatever their reason for exploring the picturesque Norwegian coast, there will be plenty to keep them occupied.
It is a busy and exciting time for the company as we prepare to launch. I believe that the quality of our ships, on-board experience and cuisine will set us apart from the competition, but we also know that building good relationships with the UK travel trade is vital to our success.