Welcome to Havila Voyages, the newest operator with the most modern and environmentally friendly ships sailing on the 130-year old Norwegian Coastal Express route between Bergen and Kirkenes.
Welcome to Havila Voyages, the newest operator with the most modern and environmentally friendly ships sailing on the 130-year old Norwegian Coastal Express route between Bergen and Kirkenes.
As one of only two companies officially entrusted by the Norwegian Government to operate the iconic route, we've been proud to lead with contemporary vessels since commencing sailings in 2021. Step aboard our modern, comfortable, and environmentally conscious ships for an unparalleled journey.
130 years ago, a Norwegian captain set out on the first express voyage along the magnificent coastal line of Norway. At the time, he fulfilled a state-imposed mission; to connect the people of Norway with steamship routes for mail, goods, and passengers.
Little did he know that the very same route, which is now stretching all the way from Bergen in the west to Kirkenes in the North, would become among the most popular tourist attractions in Norwegian history. The reason is obvious; traveling the Norwegian fjords this way reveals the most breathtaking views of the rugged cliffs, sea birds, harbors, and small villages that dot the entire coastline.
Now you can experience the traditional coastal route – and the best of Norway – in brand new, and more eco-friendly ships. Feel the power of nature; the majestic mountains, the vivid water, the stunning Northern lights dancing across the night sky, all while enjoying the modern comfort of a Havila Voyages coastal cruise ship.
“We are sailing in the world heritage. So should the generations to come”. These words have been spoken many times by Per Sævik, the founder of Havila Group, and Havila Voyages.
It all started in the year 1957, when Per – at the age of 16 – bought his very first fishing boat. It was paid for by money he had earned from working on another fishing boat – every second day since the age of 12. The years went by, and step by step, Per managed to build an empire of shipping related business. Today, the Havila Group is operating in shipping technology, offshore, transport and tourism, with Havila Voyages as its latest grant. The main office is located in the small coastal town, Fosnavåg – in Per Sævik’s home municipality – on the west coast of Norway.
It is not without reason that the Havila Voyages’ first ship, Havila Capella (maiden voyage in December 2021) was crowned as the winner of the Next Generation Ship Award at Nor-Shipping 2022. Our four new ships are loaded with the world's largest battery pack ever installed on a passenger ship, meaning that we can sail through vulnerable fjords, such as the world heritage Geirangerfjord, for four hours straight with zero emissions.
“The fact that we can run for four hours on battery is not only revolutionary when it comes to protecting the environment – it’s a revolution in safety. Up till this day, the captain, the crew, and the passengers on any ship, have shared one concern: What if there’s a blackout? A battery pack this size is a backup that has never existed on any ship before. It will ensure that we always make it ashore safely, even at the unlikely event of the engines breaking down”.
Tom-Rune Einarsen, captain at Havila Capella.
Don't expect a typical "cruise" experience. Expect something more.
Per Sævik, now past 85 years old, retired as Chairman in 2025, but still remains closely engaged. He often stops by the office, follows our daily operations, and smiles a little extra when our ships sail past just before 08:00 in the morning. The Norwegian coast is still at the heart of his everyday life, and he remains deeply committed to protecting the nature and local environments through which our ships sail.
Havila Voyages provide our guests with unforgettable voyages through Norway’s stunning coastline.
Recognized by international awards, through a commitment to sustainability and quality.
Sail through 130 years of history on the newest ships on the Norwegian coastal route.