Hurtigruten Norway to return all ships to operation this summer

After more than 1,5 years of limited operations, Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express will return all seven ships in the legendary Bergen - Kirkenes voyages in July.

- The global travel industry has been hit hard by the pandemic. With the safety and well-being of our guests and crew as our number one priority, we are now entering a new phase of our step-by-step return to operations, Hurtigruten Group CEO Daniel Skjeldam says.

With booking levels almost 50% higher than pre-pandemic levels, Hurtigruten Group has reported record-strong demand for 2022 small-ship experiences. But 2021 is also shaping up.

By July, Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express will once again operate all seven ships in the famed service along the coast of Norway, knows as ‘the most beautiful voyage in the world'.

- As vaccines are being rolled out and travel restrictions are lifted, we are seeing a huge pent up demand and strong booking trends across all markets. When international travel resumes, we will be ready to welcome our guests on board again, Skjeldam says.

Operating along the rugged Norwegian coastline continuously since 1893, Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express has served as a lifeline for local communities for generations - also throughout the pandemic.

Now, Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express CEO Hedda Felin is looking forward to once again welcoming international travelers on board when travel restrictions are lifted.

– Our step-by-step return to sailing under our strict health and safety procedures has been extremely well received from both guests, our crew and the local communities. We continuously adapt to the Norwegian authorities’ plans for reopening, and follow all guidelines and recommendations. Operating safely throughout the pandemic also gives us unparalleled experience as we now are getting ready to welcome international guests, Felin says.

This summer, Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express will be the only company to offer voyages along the Norwegian coast – with the unique combination of local travelers, goods, mail and international tourists.

- We were born and raised to connect the coastal communities and their people with the world. This summer, we will have the fjords almost to ourselves. And there is no better way to experience the Norwegian coast than with our small ships, close partners and our almost 130 years of local know-how, Felin says.