Havila Voyages is extending its season of sailings into Norway’s UNESCO World Heritage Geirangerfjord by two months.
Departures will start in April next year, extending a season that currently runs between June and August.
The fjord will be included during the spring as the line deploys its environmentally friendly ships sailing both silently and emission free on Norwegian coastal itineraries.
More: Havila Voyages strengthens balance sheet with refinancing
Havila Voyages aims for emission-free coastal sailings by 2030
The move will come a year ahead of when requirements for zero emissions are due to come into force in 2026.
Havila Voyages claims to be the only company to have successfully met these requirements having first sailed Havila Castor into the fjord on battery power in June 2022.
The first voyage in 2025 will be by coastal cruise ship Havila Castor which will enter the fjord on April 1.
Chief executive Bent Martini said: “Next year marks just one year until the new requirements are put into effect.
“There have been discussions and lobbying efforts from parties unable to meet these requirements to push back the implementation date.
“We hope Norwegian authorities remain committed and do not relent now. It would be a scandal for Norway’s efforts towards a green transition.”
He added: “We are the only company meeting the Norwegian government’s requirements for zero emission sailings in our UNESCO world heritage fjords and promise an emission-free and silent journey into the Geirangerfjord even in spring.
“Now, everyone travelling with us has the chance to witness the spring blossoming in one of the world’s most renowned fjords. For many, the Geirangerfjord is a key reason to choose the coastal route, and we are pleased to offer more people the opportunity to experience the spectacular nature of this area.”
Prices for the 11-night return voyage from Bergen to Kirkenes which departs on March 31, 2025 start at £1,616 per person based on two sharing on full board basis.