The vessel has been docked at the port since 12 April, when its insurance companies terminated their contracts on the ship due to the EU’s sanctions against the leasing company GTLK Asia, which is based in Russia.

Havila has been working on solutions to take over ownership of the ship and, among other things, the company has filed a case to the High Court of England & Wales in London.

The vessel departed the port at 8.30pm on Tuesday (28 June) and headed north along the coastal route towards Kirkenes. 

It will arrive in Alesund on Wednesday morning (29 June) before it sets sail for the Geirangerfjord where it will sail into the world heritage site on battery power.

Chief executive Bent Martini said the line has been through a "demanding period" with a ship out of service for "reasons beyond our control".

"It is extremely satisfying to see Havila Capella sailing again with excited passengers on board," he added.

"Due to the uncertainty that has arisen in recent months, many people have naturally moved their journey to Havila Castor or postponed their journey with Havila Capella.

"We have some spare capacity on the first roundtrips, but the booking numbers increase gradually over the summer."