Havila Voyages wins the “Kreuzfahrtguide Award” 2024 in the Sustainability category

The use of battery-powered ships was particularly emphazised, enabling Havila Voyages to sail along sections of the Norwegian coast with zero emissions – a first in the industry. Havila Pollux beat two sailing ships from the Sea Cloud Cruises and Star Clippers shipping companies, as well as the Hurtigruten shipping company's ship Otto Sverdrup.

In his speech, Georg J. Schulz, chief reporter of the Hamburger Abendblatt, emphasised the unanimity of the jury's decision: "Norwegian mail ships are already very far ahead technologically and they set trends that will soon benefit the cruise industry as a whole. Havila Voyages, for example, is focusing on large batteries that can be charged with electricity from hydropower, as well as on preparations for the use of hydrogen. That is why the jury's vote was unanimous."

Havila Voyages has been operating on the traditional Coastal Route since 2021 and has set itself the goal of revolutionizing cruise tourism along the Norwegian coast in a sustainable way. The shipping company's ships are equipped with some of the largest battery systems ever installed in a passenger ship, making a significant contribution to reducing CO2 emissions. In addition, Havila Voyages uses environmentally friendly technologies that minimize emissions of nitrogen oxides and other pollutants. The shipping company is also known for its unique food concept, which relies on regional suppliers and minimizes food waste. In 2023, for example, an average of only 58 grams of food waste was generated per guest per day.

“We are incredibly proud of this award,” said Pia Kuusisto, who accepted the award in Hamburg on behalf of Havila Voyages.

The company is pleased with the recognition from Germany, the world's second-largest cruise market.

"This award demonstrates that our commitment to sustainability and environmental protection is not only acknowledged but also appreciated. We hope to use this as an example for the entire industry – together, we must make the right choices if we are to succeed in meeting the climate goals of the future, says Lasse A. Vangstein, Chief Communications and Sustainability Officer in Havila Voyages.

The jury particularly praised Havila Voyages' courage in embracing innovation and environmental awareness despite the challenges in the cruise industry. The concept of covering sections of the route with zero emissions, the use of LNG (liquefied natural gas) and the ambitions for a hydrogen-based future underline Havila Voyages' pioneering role in the field of sustainability. With this award, Havila Voyages is consolidating its position as a pioneer in sustainable cruise tourism and sending a clear signal to the industry: an environmentally friendly future is possible if bold decisions are made and consistently pursued.