The ship, which is due to sail along the Norwegian coastal route between Bergen and Kirkenes from 10 May, was officially handed over to the line at Tersan shipyard in Turkey on Friday (22 April). It is a sister ship to the existing Havila Capella.

Bent Martini, chief executive of Havila Voyages, described the delivery of Havila Castor as a “big day” for the line.

“The ship we have delivery of today is much closer to operational readiness for the coastal route Bergen-Kirkenes than Havila Capella was when she was delivered,” said Martini.

“The ship is going to Bergen for preparation for the first round trip, and even though time is short, we will be ready for the first voyage.”

Martini admitted there had been “some challenging days” over Easter with a cancelled round trip on Havila Capella.

The Turkish shipyard is also building Havila’s third and fourth vessels, Havila Polaris and Havila Pollux, which are scheduled to be delivered later this year.