World Leader in Exploration Travel
Hurtigruten Group is the world’s leading adventure travel group, offering unique small-ship and land-based adventures from pole to pole – and anywhere in between. We take our guests to the most spectacular areas on the planet, offering a mix of pristine wilderness and visits to genuine local communities.
Hurtigruten Group is revolutionising the travel industry’s approach to sustainability, allowing us to offer authentic local experiences while leaving a footprint we are proud of — both in nature and with the communities we visit.
Our commitment to safety is as absolute as our passion for exploration. Safeguarding our guests, colleagues, partners, wildlife, nature, and the communities we visit will always be our number one priority. Everyone on a Hurtigruten adventure will always be – and feel – safe, comfortable – and excited!
-
29 Oct 24
NEWS
Hundreds join Hurtigruten’s agent rewards schemeLess than two weeks after its launch, Hurtigruten's new travel agent rewards scheme agents has ...Read moreHundreds join Hurtigruten’s agent rewards scheme - News & announcementsLess than two weeks after its launch, Hurtigruten's new travel agent rewards scheme agents has onboarded over 300 travel agents. The enthusiastic response has seen 325 agents sign up. Iain Powell, VP of Sales & Marketing at Hurtigruten, said: "We're incredibly encouraged by the overwhelming response. The number of travel agents signing up shows the deep connections we've built over the years." There is a sign-up deadline of October 31, 2024, for travel agents to register to unlock an exclusive bonus of 100 points, to jumpstart their rewards journey. Agents can register now at http://www.hurtigrutenrewards.co.ukRelated News Stories:
-
10 Sep 24
Partner News
Northern Lights ranked #1 Bucket List Experience as Hurtigruten Celebrates 10 Years of its Pioneering Northern Lights PromiseHurtigruten is not only the iconic leader in Norwegian coastal cruise voyages but also ...Read moreNorthern Lights ranked #1 Bucket List Experience as Hurtigruten Celebrates 10 Years of its Pioneering Northern Lights Promise - News & announcementsHurtigruten is not only the iconic leader in Norwegian coastal cruise voyages but also the best opportunity to see what has once again been ranked as the number one bucket list trip/experience: the Northern Lights. September marks the start of the official Aurora Borealis season, and the coming months will provide one of the best ever viewing opportunities as the Sun heads towards solar maximum in 2024/25 – a peak in solar activity that only occurs every 11 years, resulting in an increased number of charged particles released into space. Travel company Skyhook surveyed 4,000 people from different countries across the world about their ultimate bucket list experiences. Seeing the Northern Lights came out on top overall, ahead of Machu Picchu, the Galapagos Islands, Antarctica, and an African safari, to name a few other high-ranking dream experiences. Gen Z respondents, born between 1997 and 2012, ranked the Northern Lights the highest of any other group, with around 60% having it at the top of their list. “While we have offered guests cruises to see the Northern Lights since 1893, this coming winter season will be one of the best ever to see this natural phenomenon due to the solar maximum. Hurtigruten really does offer one of the best possibilities in the world to see the Northern Lights as our ships travel through the large geographical hotspot for the Aurora Borealis – Nordland, Troms, and Finnmark in Northern Norway – for multiple days each sailing. Additionally, the chances of viewing the Northern Lights from a ship are significantly better compared with on land, especially with minimal light pollution onboard Hurtigruten’s ships. That’s why we confidently introduced our unique Northern Lights Promise 10 years ago, and in recent years have added astronomy-led itineraries, and as of this year, our very our Chief Aurora Chaser, offering guests a wide range of options to experience their bucket list wishes,” said Hurtigruten CEO Hedda Felin. Due to the extremely high visibility rate of the Northern Lights during its cruises, Hurtigruten pioneered the Northern Lights Promise 10 years ago. Earlier this year, the cruise liner introduced the world’s first Chief Aurora Chaser, astronomer Tom Kerss, the esteemed Northern Lights astronomer. He is one of several astronomers partnering with Hurtigruten, and this upcoming 2024/25 winter season, Hurtigruten will offer nine astronomer-led itineraries following a strong response to the 2023/24 season’s astronomy voyages. Meanwhile, Hurtigruten offers 266 itineraries this upcoming winter season where guests can expect to see the Northern Lights. The designated astronomer-hosted itineraries provide travelers with an onboard Northern Lights expert, offering invaluable insights into the Northern Lights phenomenon. Moreover, they elevate the guest experience by leading digital talks, webinars, and workshops, as well as organizing engaging and innovative guest-focused activities and events. Hurtigruten's Chief Aurora Chaser, Tom Kerss. “Since Hurtigruten launched the Northern Lights Promise a decade ago, nearly a full cycle of solar activity has passed. Now we're approaching solar maximum again, and all signs point to a superb season ahead, exceeding the performance of the last maximum in 2014. There will be ample opportunities to witness dramatic, spellbinding displays of the Northern Lights as choppy space weather, churned up by the Sun, frequently arrives at Earth. With that in mind, it's a perfect time to be planning your aurora-chasing adventure in Arctic Norway. Being always on the move, and with the expertise on board to give you a heads-up, the chances are you won't just cross the Northern Lights off your bucket list, but also add several unique aurora experiences to the top of the list and cross them all off in a single voyage! Now's your chance to experience the unmatched beauty of the Arctic sky, safe in the knowledge that with the Northern Lights Promise, you really can't go wrong,” said Hurtigruten’s Chief Aurora Chaser Tom Kerss. Earlier this year, Hurtigruten also announced the extension of its Northern Lights Promise period to commence mid-September, rather than October. Hurtigruten has long been synonymous with the best of Norway's natural wonders, and its various initiatives underscore Hurtigruten's unwavering commitment to providing unparalleled Northern Lights experiences. It also reaffirms Norway as the ultimate destination to witness this awe-inspiring natural phenomenon. -
22 Aug 24
Partner News
Hurtigruten Leads Global “Made in Norway” LaunchHurtigruten, the undisputed travel expert on Norway and its stunning coastline, has become the ...Read moreHurtigruten Leads Global “Made in Norway” Launch - News & announcementsHurtigruten, 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 10th 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. -
17 May 24
Partner News
Hurtigruten Introduces Signature Voyages as its Expansion Redefines Coastal Norway CruisingHurtigruten, proudly introduces its latest addition: Signature, its premium category crafted to elevate the ...Read moreHurtigruten Introduces Signature Voyages as its Expansion Redefines Coastal Norway Cruising - News & announcementsHurtigruten, 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.
-
20 Mar 24
Partner News
Hurtigruten Extends its Unique Northern Lights Promise for 2024/25 Season and BeyondHurtigruten, the iconic leader in Norwegian coastal voyages, has extended its unique Northern Lights ...Read moreHurtigruten Extends its Unique Northern Lights Promise for 2024/25 Season and Beyond - News & announcementsHurtigruten, 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. -
15 Dec 23
NEWS
Hurtigruten, HX advance next phase of rebrandHX and Hurtigruten have unveiled the next phase of their new brand identities. Ahead of ...Read moreHurtigruten, HX advance next phase of rebrand - News & announcementsHX 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. -
17 Aug 23
Partner News
Hurtigruten Group Receives Best ESG Ranking of a Cruise Company by Leading Research Provider SustainalyticsBy earning the lowest Risk Rating, Hurtigruten Group leads the cruise industry in ESG ...Read moreHurtigruten Group Receives Best ESG Ranking of a Cruise Company by Leading Research Provider Sustainalytics - News & announcementsBy 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. -
13 Jul 23
NEWS
Hurtigruten Expeditions Opens Shanghai OfficeHurtigruten Expeditions is opening a regional sales office in Shanghai. It comes as the company ...Read moreHurtigruten Expeditions Opens Shanghai Office - News & announcementsHurtigruten 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. -
11 Jul 23
NEWS
Hurtigruten Expeditions unveils new Antarctica CruisesFor 2024, Hurtigruten Expeditions is introducing new immersive Antarctica cruises. They are combined with the ...Read moreHurtigruten Expeditions unveils new Antarctica Cruises - News & announcementsFor 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. -
14 Jun 23
NEWS
Hurtigruten hopes zero-emission cruising will be plain sailingIs it possible to design a truly green cruise line? Do cruisers care? One cruise ...Read moreHurtigruten hopes zero-emission cruising will be plain sailing - News & announcementsIs 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. -
17 Oct 22
Partner News
Standing For Sustainability: Hurtigruten Group Debut First Exhibition Stand Made From Reclaimed Waste Plastics And Discarded Fishing NetsHurtigruten Group, the world's leading adventure travel company, showcased that its sustainable approach lives ...Read moreStanding For Sustainability: Hurtigruten Group Debut First Exhibition Stand Made From Reclaimed Waste Plastics And Discarded Fishing Nets - News & announcementsHurtigruten Group, the world's leading adventure travel company, showcased that its sustainable approach lives both on land and sea at The Sustainability Show 2022 in Islington (London, UK) this past weekend. The recycled, recyclable, responsibly sourced and locally managed exhibition stand was created in partnership with experiential agency, PIE Factory. With an environmental ethos central to Hurtigruten’s core values, the travel leaders debuted their first exhibition stand made from reclaimed waste plastics, collected from around the world, and responsibly sourced materials. The innovative design included:- Recycled pressed plastic sheeting formed from assorted post-consumer waste sources and supplied by Good Plastic Company. Each panel is made from a single type of plastic so it can be easily recycled, extending its use indefinitely.
- Carpet made from 100% regenerated nylon including discarded fishing nets and post-consumer yarn waste, alongside shelving made from reclaimed wood.
- FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) timber refers to timber that has been harvested responsibly from well managed forests that are continuously replenished and ensure that there is no damage to the surrounding environment, or to native flora and fauna.
- All elements of the design were produced locally and installed by a local team (within 20 miles).
-
22 Feb 22
Partner News
Hurtigruten Group CEO honoured for “outstanding achievements” towards sustainability in the tourism industryHurtigruten Group CEO Daniel Skjeldam has received the 2022 Honorary Award from the Association ...Read moreHurtigruten Group CEO honoured for “outstanding achievements” towards sustainability in the tourism industry - News & announcementsHurtigruten Group CEO Daniel Skjeldam has received the 2022 Honorary Award from the Association of German Travel Journalists (VDRJ) for his “outstanding achievements” in tourism with emphasis on his efforts towards sustainability and for being a “role model” in the industry. Rüdiger Edelmann, Chairman of the VDRJ said: "The Honorary Award pays tribute to companies and personalities in the travel industry who not only talk but take action. Hurtigruten Group and Daniel Skjeldam are excellent examples of this. He has implemented environmental protection and sustainability at an early stage, quickly and consistently and is a role model for sustainable change.” Since taking the helm in 2012, Skjeldam stopped the use of heavy fuel oil on its fleet of ships, led Hurtigruten Group to become the first company of cruise liners to ban single-use plastic and overseen the launch of the world’s first battery hybrid ships. More recently, Hurtigruten Group’s expedition cruise company Hurtigruten Expeditions, launched a third battery hybrid ship MS Otto Sverdrup in 2021. Its other battery hybrid ship, MS Fridtjof Nansen, was named the world’s most sustainable ship by ratings agency Scope ESG Analysis in association with Stern magazine. Three ships on its Norwegian Coastal Express fleet are to have battery packs installed this year while Hurtigruten Svalbard launched a series of initiatives including partnering with Volvo Penta to run a hybrid day cruiser for guests. “It’s a huge honour to accept this award on behalf of Hurtigruten Group. We live in an increasingly fragile planet, and we are more committed than ever to delivering the most unique, sustainable travel experiences for our guests. We will continue to be a catalyst for change in the travel industry not only for our guests but for the communities we visit, and we look forward to welcoming even more German guests as they explore across Hurtigruten Group’s portfolio of products,” said Skjeldam, who was presented with the award on board MS Otto Sverdrup in Hamburg earlier today. Franz Neumeier, travel journalist and publisher of the cruise guide cruisetricks.de, who proposed Daniel Skjeldam as a candidate added: "Hurtigruten Group has been a pioneer in the cruise industry on many issues. Daniel Skjeldam takes a very clear public stance, criticizing his own industry, sometimes harshly, and regularly calling on legislators and competitors for more commitment to environmental protection and sustainability in cruising. Hurtigruten Group shows how sustainable and environmentally friendly cruise tourism is possible." The VDRJ Honorary Award is presented annually to personalities, organizations or initiatives that have gained extraordinary achievements in the tourism industry and are sustainably successful.