The company, which is due to receive another three ships in 2022, said its vessels would be the “most environmentally friendly” ships to operate along Norway’s coast from Bergen to Kirkenes.
Havila’s ships will operate on the historic coastal route as part of a 10-year government contract, with the company set to eventually operate four of 11 ships departing daily. The line’s second vessel is due to be delivered in January 2022, followed by the final two ships next summer.
The 12-day voyage takes in 34 coastal ports as it sails through four Unesco heritage sites and crosses the Arctic Circle twice.
Havila Voyages chief executive Bent Martini said: “We have been looking forward to this day for many months and are delighted to have taken delivery of our first ship.
“Launching a new shipping company is a very special event to be part of, especially given this is the largest investment in tourism we have seen along the Norwegian coast.”
The new ships will be fitted with the “world’s largest” battery packs, allowing them to sail through fjords and other vulnerable areas for up to four hours without creating any emissions. The batteries will then be charged in ports along the route, using hydropower.
Onboard features include an observation lounge with a glass roof offering views of the northern lights or midnight sun, as well as two restaurants and a cafe.
Havila Capella will start sailing from the shipyard in Turkey to Norway in the coming days, ahead of commencing service on 1 December.
