Havila Voyages has announced that its fourth and final ship, Havila Pollux, has set sail from Bergen on its maiden voyage to Kirkenes.

The vessel arrived in Bergen from the Tersan shipyard in Turkey last week, where final preparations were made for the first sailing along the coastal route.

All ships in the Havila fleet follow the same route (with some seasonal variations) from Bergen, stopping at 34 ports along the Norwegian coast to Kirkenes, before returning the same way.

The 12-day trip sails through “narrow fjords and open seas, past sheer cliffs and weather-beaten islets”, the line said.

Havila Voyages ‘giving back’

Havila Voyages CEO Bent Martini said: “This means everything to us. Now we will finally have the opportunity to deliver as we have committed to in the contract with Norwegian authorities and showcase our fantastic product.

“We will contribute to critical infrastructure along the coast and provide our guests on board with experiences of a lifetime.

“The reception Havila Polaris has received along the coast from Bodø and northbound has been fantastic.

“It is very clear that the coastal communities have been waiting for our state-of-the-art ships. We are thrilled about it and look forward to giving something back to the coastal communities.”

The ship’s captain Martin Iversen added: “To be allowed to take a ship on its maiden voyage is an honourable mission. I am grateful for the opportunity and look forward to sailing this fantastic ship along the coast.

“The crew on board are prepared and ready for the tasks ahead, and they are highly motivated to operate the ship in the best and safest possible way, while also taking good care of all our guests on board.”