Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Policy, Marianne Sivertsen Næss, to be Godmother of Havila Polaris

Havila Polaris entered service on the coastal route between Bergen and Kirkenes in August 2023, and many would argue that it is high time the ship receives its official naming ceremony. The date is now set, and it is Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Policy, Marianne Sivertsen Næss, who will have the honorable role of godmother when the ship is named in her hometown of Hammerfest on Tuesday, October 15.

“It is an honor to be the godmother of Havila Polaris, and it is especially significant that the solemn naming ceremony will take place in my hometown, Hammerfest,” says Sivertsen Næss.

“In a time when green shipping is crucial for the future of the maritime industry, it is encouraging to see the steps Havila Voyages has taken towards more sustainable operations. This includes the development of emission-free and silent battery packs, the potential to utilize future zero-emission fuels, and the focus on using local ingredients. I am proud to be the godmother of a ship like Havila Polaris,” she adds.

CEO Bent Martini of Havila Voyages is looking forward to naming the last of the four newly built coastal cruise ships.

“We agree with those who think it is high time to name Havila Polaris. Our focus has been on getting the ship fully operational along the Norwegian coast so that we can deliver on the mission given to us by the Norwegian authorities. Now everything has finally fallen into place, and we are greatly looking forward to naming the ship,” says Martini.

“It is also particularly nice that the Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Policy has accepted the role of godmother in her own hometown. Hammerfest is an important port on the coastal route, and the northernmost areas of our country greatly benefit from having the ships operate daily, all year round.”

Havila Polaris is initially scheduled to dock on the city side in Hammerfest at 11:00 on the day of the naming ceremony and will continue southward on its route at 12:45.

“Since this is a special day for us and for the coastal route, there is a possibility that we might adjust the schedule slightly on this day. This will give us a bit more time in Hammerfest, allowing us to invite the local community to the quay to witness the naming ceremony and give them the opportunity to come on board and experience the most modern ship on the coastal route up close,” concludes Martini.