World Leader in Exploration Travel

  Hurtigruten, the undisputed travel expert on Norway and its stunning coastline, has become the first travel brand to receive the Made in Norway trademark. The visionary project by the Norwegian government and Innovation Norway aims to promote and celebrate the best of the best Norwegian craftsmanship, authenticity, and sustainability on a global scale.   Following an initial pilot phase, Hurtigruten is one of 22 Norwegian brands, which also includes two of the coastal cruise liner’s partners and suppliers, Aurora Spirits and Mack Brewery, to join the initiative.   To be awarded Norway’s official mark of origin, Made in Norway, a company must adhere to a rigorous application process that includes stringent criteria focusing on product excellence and a clear commitment to sustainability, ensuring that only the highest standards of Norwegian quality are upheld under the new Made in Norway brand. The certification trademark is designed to increase the competitiveness of Norwegian products and solutions on the international market.   “Hurtigruten is the ultimate travel brand to represent Made in Norway around the world. With our 131 years of operations and long-time ambitions for more sustainable solutions, no other brand knows, highlights, or supports the Norwegian coast and its amazing local communities as we do. Our food concept has been called Norway’s Coastal Kitchen for over a decade as 80% of all our food onboard is locally sourced in high season, offering our guests the best possible taste of Norway, both in terms of senses and tastes. We represent Norway with honour, along the coast and in Svalbard, and across the world,” said Hurtigruten CEO Hedda Felin.   Iain Powell, VP Sales, and Marketing, UK & EMEA added, “Receiving the Made in Norway trademark validates our position as the only truly authentic way to experience the Norwegian coastline. With year-round sailings, exceptional excursions, and excellent onboard local expertise, we can offer UK travellers an experience that's genuinely Norway by Norwegians.”   Furthermore, the Made in Norway initiative is launched during Hurtigruten’s Live the Legend of Norway campaign, further underlining Hurtigruten’s alignment and commitment to promoting not just destination Norway, but the full embodiment of everything Norway represents to visitors.   Hurtigruten has launched multiple industry-leading initiatives, most recently its commitment to reach zero edible food waste and the SeaZero project that is currently in the research and development phase to create its first zero-emission ship by 2030. It also follows the largest upgrade in European maritime history that is currently underway, and by first-quarter 2025, Hurtigruten’s fleet will comprise four battery-hybrid-powered ships, as well as an overall 25% reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions across the fleet.   Hurtigruten has also taken a leading position in not only offering travellers the best possible way to experience Norway but is also a natural leader in promoting one of the country’s biggest draws, the Northern Lights. The cruise liner’s unique Northern Lights Promise celebrates its 10^th anniversary this year, and earlier this year, it introduced the world’s first Chief Aurora Chaser, astronomer Tom Kerss. This upcoming 2024/25 winter season, Hurtigruten offers nine astronomer-led itineraries.   As of now, Hurtigruten will incorporate the Made in Norway branding worldwide across channels and markets reaffirming its commitment to promoting Norwegian excellence and sustainability in the travel industry.

HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions) has agreed a partnership with Ocean Bottle, a social impact and reusable water bottle brand. The initiative, launching ahead of World Oceans Day is part of HX’s aim to be the most sustainable expedition cruise company It became the first cruise line to ban single-use plastics back in 2018. Every guest on an HX expedition cruise will receive a complimentary reusable Ocean Bottle, which funds the collection of 1,000 plastic bottles in weight. “We are thrilled to embark on this journey with Ocean Bottle," said Stefan Engl, VP Hotel Operations. "Together, we recognise the urgent need to protect our oceans and combat the pervasive issue of plastic pollution in marine environments. “ Collectors exchange plastic for money and get access to social resources such as healthcare, education and financial security. So far, Ocean Bottle has collected 14,164,500 kilograms of plastic via its partner: grassroots organisations in countries such as Indonesia, India and Ghana. This is the equivalent to one billion plastic bottles in weight. HX's ocean conservation initiatives include regular beach cleanups and supporting critical research through its Science & Education program. HX's onboard Science & Education teams, alongside guests, help record invaluable data to support global research efforts. The collaboration also ties into HX’s 1893 Ambassador Loyalty program, where Level 1 members can redeem a 10% discount and Level 2 members can receive a 20% discount when they make a purchase on the Ocean Bottle website. 

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  Hurtigruten, proudly introduces its latest addition: Signature, its premium category crafted to elevate the coastal Norway cruising experience.   Drawing inspiration from the golden age of ocean liners, The Svalbard Line and The North Cape Line, summer and winter editions, are meticulously crafted to offer guests an elevated experience along Norway's iconic coastline. Expanding upon what was formerly known as The Svalbard Express and The North Cape Express, the offerings have now doubled in capacity responding to the growing demands from guests and demonstrating Hurtigruten's commitment to innovation and meeting the desires of travellers seeking extraordinary experiences amidst Norway's stunning landscapes. This offers an unrivaled way to experience the coastline, demonstrating Hurtigruten's commitment to innovation and meeting the desires of travelers seeking extraordinary experiences amidst Norway's stunning landscapes.   With the simultaneous introduction of the new 2025/26 program, guests can now choose between the elevated Signature experiences and the unique Original Coastal Express, which Hurtigruten pioneered back in 1893.   For the 25/26 season, Hurtigruten is delighted to offer guests more departure options, including additional Signature voyages departing from Oslo. This expansion provides travellers with greater flexibility in planning their Norwegian coastal adventure, allowing them to embark on their journey from the vibrant capital city of Norway.   Introducing Signature Voyages   At the core of the latest season's offerings lies the introduction of innovative Signature voyages, drawing inspiration from the golden age of ocean liners. The Svalbard Line (summer season) and The North Cape Line  (winter season) are meticulously crafted to offer guests an exclusive opportunity to ‘Live the Legend of Norway’. These carefully curated small-ship sailings promise an elevated experience along Norway's iconic coastline, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of natural wonders and cultural treasures that define this unique region.   Launched last year as the Svalbard Express and the North Cape Express, the company's first two premium sailings in its 130-year history, the new names reflect the expansion and product enhancements, while also differentiating them further from the Original Coastal Express products.   "Our Signature voyages embody the essence of Norwegian coastal cruising," added Felin. "Each itinerary has been thoughtfully designed to ensure our guests embark on a journey that captures the very essence of Norway's coastal charm and heritage."   Key highlights of the Signature voyages include tailored itineraries with longer port stays, allowing guests ample time to explore each destination in depth:  

• All-Inclusive Experience: Guests will indulge in an all-inclusive culinary journey, savoring authentic Nordic cuisine crafted by our award-winning chefs, while enjoying premium beverages amidst the stunning Norwegian scenery. Suite guests have complimentary access to the award-winning restaurant Røst, launched last year, which is available to all guests at a small fee.
• Enhanced Guiding: With an expanded Coastal Experience Team on board, guests will benefit from personalized guiding and insights into Norway's culture, history, and natural wonders, enriching their voyage experience.
• Exclusive Activities: Signature voyages offer an array of exclusive activities such as hikes, excursions, lectures, and photography workshops, allowing guests to engage with Norway's picturesque landscapes in meaningful ways.
• Relaxation Amenities: From serene sauna sessions to other relaxation activities, guests can unwind and rejuvenate amidst the tranquility of Norway, immersing themselves fully in the Norwegian way of life.

  Responding to the growing demand from guests, departure capacity from Oslo has been doubled, opening more opportunities than ever to experience the breathtaking journey from Norway's southernmost to northernmost points. Between autumn and spring, Hurtigruten’s ship MS Trollfjord offers The North Cape Line from the Norwegian capital. With visits to 14 ports, there's ample time for excursions like skiing, dog sledding, and snowshoeing. Guests spend up to eight days above the Arctic Circle, increasing their chances of witnessing the mesmerizing Northern Lights, backed by Hurtigruten's highly popular Northern Lights Promise.   From May to September, The Svalbard Line departing from Bergen aboard MS Trollfjord invites travelers to explore cherished destinations along Norway's coastline and venture into the realm of Svalbard whilst basking in the Midnight Sun.   Expanded Departure Options: More Sailings from Oslo   For the 25/26 season, Hurtigruten is delighted to offer guests more departure options, including additional Signature voyages departing from Oslo. This expansion provides travelers with greater flexibility in planning their Norwegian coastal adventure, allowing them to embark on their journey from the vibrant capital city of Norway.   "Oslo stands out as perhaps the most happening Scandinavian capital, offering a vibrant fusion of culture and nature," said Hedda Felin, CEO of Hurtigruten. "This expansion provides travelers with greater flexibility in planning their Norwegian coastal adventure, allowing them to embark on their journey from the dynamic heart of Norway's capital city."   Continued Original Voyages: Heritage and Authenticity Along the Norwegian Coast   In addition to the Signature voyages, Hurtigruten continues to offer its renowned Original Coastal Express, embodying the heritage and authentic charm of Norwegian coastal cruising. These iconic voyages connect local communities and offer guests an authentic glimpse into everyday life along Norway's stunning coastline.   "Our Original voyages are a testament to the enduring essence of Norwegian coastal cruising," says Felin. "They provide guests with an opportunity to experience the rhythm of life along Norway's coast, from bustling ports to tranquil fjords."   Even More Northern Lights   Earlier this year, Hurtigruten introduced Tom Kerss as the world’s first Chief Aurora Chaser and the extension of its Northern Lights Promise for the 25/26 season. Kerss will join selected sailings, bringing his renowned expertise in aurora observation and photography to enhance the guest experience.   "Having Tom Kerss on board as our Chief Aurora Chaser underpins our commitment to providing guests with unforgettable experiences," said Hedda Felin. "Tom's expertise enhances our guests' understanding and appreciation of the Northern Lights, ensuring they have the opportunity to experience this awe-inspiring natural phenomenon in all its glory."   Additionally, the extended Northern Lights Promise reaffirmed Hurtigruten's dedication to providing unparalleled opportunities for guests to witness the mesmerizing spectacle of the Northern Lights. This unique guarantee assured guests that if the Northern Lights did not make an appearance during their voyage, they would receive a complimentary six- or seven-day voyage to try again the following season.   "At Hurtigruten, we understood the importance of experiencing the Northern Lights, and we wanted to ensure our guests had every opportunity to witness this extraordinary natural wonder," added Felin. “Refining how we organize our offerings makes it easier for guests, agents, and other partners to navigate. Seamless from the initial dreaming and research phase, they can choose between original voyages for The Coastal Express or Signature voyages comprising The North Cape Line and The Svalbard Line.”

  Hurtigruten, the iconic leader in Norwegian coastal voyages, has extended its unique Northern Lights Promise to September, allowing travelers to experience one of the world’s most natural wonders for an even longer period.   Hurtigruten has long been synonymous with the best of Norway's natural wonders, and in a commitment to ensuring guests have the best possible chance of experiencing the Aurora, the company has extended its Northern Lights Promise to start in mid-September rather than October.   The policy extension will allow thousands of guests to feel more confident experiencing the phenomenon that is on many travelers’ bucket lists, reaffirming Norway as the ultimate destination to witness this awe-inspiring natural phenomenon.   Having sailed the Norwegian coastline for more than 130 years, no company does Norway better than Hurtigruten, which is why the company has extended its acclaimed Northern Lights Promise, which it was the first-ever cruise line to offer. The policy provides guests with a second chance guarantee to see the lights if they do not occur within sight of the ship during a voyage of 11 days or more.   “At Hurtigruten, we firmly believe that Norway is the best place to experience the Northern Lights and that our coastal cruises offer the best way to explore Norway. We are thrilled to extend our Northern Lights Promise sailing period, allowing more guests to immerse themselves in the magic of the Aurora Borealis," said Hedda Felin, CEO at Hurtigruten. "This commitment reflects our unwavering dedication to providing exceptional experiences and ensuring that every journey with Hurtigruten is truly extraordinary."   In addition to extending the sailing period, Hurtigruten will continue to offer select astronomer-hosted sailings during the 2024/25 and 2025/26 seasons, following their successful introduction last year. The Astronomy Voyages offers guests exclusive opportunities to sail with renowned astronomers and enjoy multiple lectures and Northern Lights viewings onboard, making it an even more unforgettable voyage.

Hurtigruten Group announced MS Maud will make a temporary return to Hurtigruten as part of the Norwegian Coastal Express state contract. Also, HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions) will amend fleet deployments following its most successful Antarctic season ever. Previously, MS Maud had operated on the Norwegian coast, but joined the HX expedition cruise fleet in 2021. "Hurtigruten is undertaking the most significant environmental upgrade in the cruise industry,” said Daniel Skjeldam, CEO of Hurtigruten Group. “The fleet capabilities of the Hurtigruten Group gives us the opportunity to temporarily move MS Maud from HX to Hurtigruten, filling the void left by the upgrade program. MS Maud will return to HX again in 2026." Hurtigruten Group operates a fleet of 16 ships. HX is the expedition cruise offering polar adventures, Galapagos cruises and more. Previously HX had expanded its product portfolio to include West Africa for the 2023/2024 season. However, due to increasing levels of instability in the region, HX has elected to pause its operations for the upcoming season to ensure the safety of guests and crew. 

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HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions) announced expedition ship MS Maud will sail again in April 2024. The vessel suffered a power outage in the North Sea last month. It lost use of navigation systems. A large wave crashed into the ship’s bridge. In mid-April, MS Maud will sail an expedition around the British Isles. Scottish weather presenter Carol Kirkwood will join the second British Isles journey, offering insightful talks and Q&A sessions while sailing from Douglas to Dover. In July, MS Maud will sail to the Arctic calling at Greenland and Iceland. Then in October, MS Maud will head south to Antarctica for a series of new expeditions combining the Patagonian fjords with Antarctica. Additionally, MS Maud will embark on 23- and 24-day voyages that offer guests the chance to explore South America, the Falkland Islands, and South Georgia in one voyage. All MS Maud sailings from April are part of HXs current Wave Season offer, featuring free flights and an additional discount for members of the HX loyalty program. This campaign extends to HXs entire fleet, including all expeditions to Alaska, Galapagos, Northwest Passage, Antarctica, Greenland, and Iceland. HX has curated a range of options for those originally booked on MS Maud from February 3 to March 16, 2024. Guests can sail the same Northern Lights itinerary on MS Spitsbergen (subject to availability). Guests also have the option to rebook another voyage between January and April 2024. This includes select Norway sailings with sister brand, Hurtigruten, such as the North Cape Express, a Classic Roundtrip voyage from Bergen, and sailings from Hamburg on MS Otto. Guests impacted by these changes also have the option to receive a future cruise voucher to book a new expedition at a later date or a full refund.   

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HX and Hurtigruten have unveiled the next phase of their new brand identities. Ahead of Wave Season, the brands are launching new visual profiles, websites, social channels, brochures, and booking materials to differentiate their brands. Hurtigruten Expeditions cruise brand is now transforming to HX, while Hurtigruten Norway, which celebrated 130 years this summer, will continue with its original name, simplified to just Hurtigruten. "This marks a defining moment as HX and Hurtigruten embark on the next phase of their distinct journeys," said Daniel Skjeldam, CEO of Hurtigruten Group. Both the HX expedition cruise brand and Hurtigruten are wholly owned by Hurtigruten Group. New logos and visual identities will differentiate the brands. Both websites have been redesigned. HXs revamped website is at HXexpeditions.com. A full domain transition, including employee email addresses will be undertaken from April 2024. Hurtigruten will use the original Hurtigruten.com address with a split screen guiding visitors to either brand page until April. While maintaining separate social channels since 2021, HX will transition across platforms from 'Hurtigruten Expeditions' to 'HX Hurtigruten Expeditions.' Both brands will update and align future content with the refreshed brand identity. The new channels for both brands are live: Facebook: HX Hurtigruten Expeditions and Hurtigruten Instagram: HXHurtigrutenExpeditions and Hurtigruten LinkedIn: HX Hurtigruten Expeditions and Hurtigruten Norway YouTube: HX Hurtigruten Expeditions and Hurtigruten HX has also revamped guest communications. Starting this month, guests see a redesigned digital journey upon booking. Post-expedition, guests will gain access to a redesigned Logbook. Later this year, both the expedition line's B2B Portal and Guest App will undergo updates to align with the new visual identity. Over the next 12 months, onboard guests will witness HXs rebrand with updates notice physical elements—uniforms, room key cards, crew name badges, water bottles and more. In 2024, the fleet's six ships will be repainted and sail under new livery by the year end. "Each brand has its own, unique story. Bringing their identities to life is essential for global audience growth," Skjeldam added.

Expedition cruise operator Hurtigruten Expeditions is undergoing a brand identity refresh complete with a new name. Set to be introduced in December, Hurtigruten Expeditions will be known as HX. It will launch a new logo across all materials. The new name is a nod to Hurtigruten Expeditions and its origins. Sister business Hurtigruten Norway, which celebrated 130 years of operating the original Norwegian Coastal Express this summer, will simplify its name to just ‘Hurtigruten.’ This is the same name as when it first launched in 1893. "The name Hurtigruten is synonymous with travel in Norway, just as it has been a renowned travel brand for over 130 years,” said Daniel Skjeldam, CEO, Hurtigruten Group. "HX will remain at the forefront of expedition cruising and sustainable travel as we continue to significantly grow its global presence.” With HX, we are investing in our high-end expedition itineraries to some of the most adventurous, remote places around the world.” Starting this year, HX will be the only cruise liner to exclusively sail the West African archipelagos of both Cape Verde and the Bissagos Islands. The new HX brand and logo will be fully implemented starting in December, with updates to brochures, websites, and social channels. Livery repainting of the fleet's six ships will start over the next 18 months. Earlier this year, Hurtigruten Group completed an internal restructuring. The Group also announced a fleet adjustment over the summer, shifting Hurtigruten Expeditions' battery-hybrid-powered MS Otto Sverdrup to Hurtigruten Norway as of January 2024. Additionally, MS Maud is redeploying to Antarctica due to growing demand. In the 2024-2025 Antarctica season, HX will offer guests 36 expedition cruise departures across eight different itineraries from 12 to 24 days. As well as the polar regions and West Africa, the cruise line offers expedition cruises to Alaska, Iceland, Canada's Northwest Passage, the British Isles, Galapagos islands and more. The group most recently announced Hurtigruten Norway's zero-emission ship, which is set to launch in 2030.

  By earning the lowest Risk Rating, Hurtigruten Group leads the cruise industry in ESG management, placing fourth in the “Travel, Lodging and Amusement” subindustry category   Hurtigruten Group AS (“HRG” or the “Company”) has received an industry-leading ESG Risk Rating of 19.7 (Low) following an assessment by Morningstar Sustainalytics, an ESG research, ratings and data firm. With ratings categorized across five risk levels, Hurtigruten Group is the only cruise company to be awarded a Low ESG Risk Rating and ranks fourth (out of 127 companies) in the “Travel, Lodging and Amusement” subindustry category. The rating from Morningstar Sustainalytics reflects the low risk of the Company experiencing material financial impacts from ESG factors.   “This rating is a result of our company-wide focus on emissions, nature, community and people,” said Daniel Skjeldam, CEO of Hurtigruten Group. “We have made significant strides over the past year, investing 66 million euros in emissions reduction. Our pioneering Green Bond, issued in 2022, has enabled us to finance ongoing environmental upgrades, including converting our fifth battery hybrid-powered ship. Simultaneously, we strengthened governance with executive compensation linked to ESG targets, a new whistleblower policy and improved supply chain control, emphasizing local procurement.”   In its latest ESG rating report, Morningstar Sustainalytics stated: “The company [Hurtigruten Group] is at low risk of experiencing material financial impacts from ESG factors, due to its medium exposure and strong management of material ESG issues. The company is not publicly held, which reduces its corporate governance risk compared to its peers. Although the company has a moderate level of controversies, its favourable risk assessment is primarily due to its above average policies and programmes.”   “This rating is a quantitative method to assess our ESG efforts and a valuable tool to scrutinize how we execute on our ESG strategy through programmes and policies across the entire business," explained Skjeldam. Hurtigruten Group – consisting of Hurtigruten Norway, Hurtigruten Expeditions, and Hurtigruten Svalbard – seeks to change the industry’s approach to sustainability. Hurtigruten Group was the first cruise line to ban heavy fuel oil (2009) and single-use plastics (2018). In 2019, Hurtigruten Expeditions added the world’s first battery hybrid-powered cruise ship and has since added two.   In 2022, Hurtigruten Norway converted its first battery hybrid-powered ship, with one more joining the fleet in 2023 and a third planned for 2024. The conversions are part of a 100-million-euro green upgrade that will reduce CO2 and NOx emissions by 25% and 80%, concurrently. Moreover, this June, Hurtigruten Norway’s first-of-kind Sea Zero initiative revealed early concept plans for the world's most energy-efficient cruise ship.   “In addition, our Svalbard operations have made considerable progress in reducing their impact, deploying two electric tour boats and eight electric snowmobiles. We are working towards becoming cleaner, greener, and quieter,” added Skjeldam.   The Group released its 2022 ESG Report in May, advocating for increased transparency and prioritization on emissions reductions over carbon offsetting. “As a travel company, we acknowledge our environmental impact and use ESG review as a tool for looking at our own behaviour. Transparency is key, allowing us to set ambitious targets and push ourselves – and the industry – to collectively protect the people and places at the heart of our adventures,” concluded Skjeldam.   Explore Sustainalytics’ full ESG Risk Rating for Hurtigruten Group here.

Hurtigruten Expeditions is opening a regional sales office in Shanghai. It comes as the company appointed a new CCO, Alex Delamere-White as part of executive leadership team. Hurtigruten Expeditions expanded its' APAC division with new team members serving Greater China. It named Joe Zoe as China Sales Director responsible for Mainland China, Taiwan and Hong Kong. Other additions are and Sabrina (Hui) Ju, Nora (Junru) Huang, Yolan (Yan) Wang and Belle (Sijia) Liu as sales team members. It is led by APAC MD, Damian Perry. Delamere-White brings cruise sector experience from Carnival UK brands. Based in London, Alex will lead a team on an interim basis. Hurtigruten Expeditions takes guests to over 250 destinations in more than 30 countries worldwide. It recently unveiled new expedition cruises including combining the Patagonian fjords with Antarctica.

For 2024, Hurtigruten Expeditions is introducing new immersive Antarctica cruises. They are combined with the iconic Patagonian fjords of South America. The landmark adventure is the 17-day Antarctica, Patagonia, and Chilean Fjords Expedition, setting sail from Punta Arenas, Chile. It encompasses four days in the Chilean fjords and seven days exploring the wonders of Antarctica. In addition, expedition ship MS Maud will embark on 23 and 24-day voyages from Buenos Aires, Argentina, to Antarctica and to Punta Arenas. It allows guests to explore South America, the Falkland Islands, and South Georgia in a single Antarctica cruise. There is opportunity to spot whales. penguins and seals. Guests also have the chanace to travel alongside working scientists and experts to gain valuable insights.

Is it possible to design a truly green cruise line? Do cruisers care? One cruise line is hoping the answer is yes to both. A medium-sized cruise ship emits greenhouse gases the equivalent of 12,000 cars. Nordic cruise lime Hurtigruten, known for its hybrid power ships, is aiming for carbon-neutral operations by 2040. CEO Daniel Skjeldam says the changes will in part be driven by customer demand for more sustainable cruise travel. To meet this, Hurtigruten unveiled ambitious plans for a truly zero-emission ship, powered by solar and wind energy. The ship would have three retractable wind sails integrated with large solar panels.