Havila Voyages launches Lofoten Coastal Stopover

For the first time, a land stay of several days becomes an integrated part of the Coastal Route itself – not just a pre- or post-cruise add-on. The goal is to give guests more time to immerse themselves in Lofoten, while the journey continues seamlessly.

With Lofoten Coastal Stopover, Havila Voyages is rethinking how a coastal voyage can be experienced. Guests sailing southbound from Kirkenes can disembark in Svolvær, spend 2–3 nights at Thon Hotel Svolvær, and then continue south with the next Havila Voyages ship – in the same cabin category as before the stopover.

The concept breaks with the traditional linear cruise format, where the experience typically consists of short port calls and land programs before or after the voyage. Here, the land stay becomes part of the overall experience, without losing the continuity of the Coastal Route.

Relevance in a new travel trend
Havila Voyages has observed a shift in travel trends and believes the new concept will resonate well in the market.

“We are seeing a clear development in the market where travelers want more time on land, deeper experiences, and greater flexibility. Lofoten Coastal Stopover is our way of meeting this demand – with a solution that is integrated into the Coastal Route and allows the journey to continue seamlessly,” says Bent Martini, CEO of Havila Voyages.

The launch comes at a time when “slow travel” and so-called “destination immersion” are gaining increasing international attention. In the cruise industry, the discussion is increasingly focused on the depth of experiences, time in destinations, and quality over volume.

“From our perspective, this concept is a concrete response to this development – and a new model for how a coastal voyage can be combined with an on-destination stay,” says Martini.

First Coastal Stopover – more to come
Lofoten Coastal Stopover is the first launch in what is planned to become a broader initiative featuring longer stopovers along the way as an integrated part of the Coastal Route, under the concept name Coastal Stopover.

“We are already in the planning phase for similar models in several ports along the coast, and in both directions on the Coastal Route. The goal is to give our guests greater freedom of choice while strengthening local value creation,” says Martini.

Lofoten as a destination
Lofoten is internationally known for its dramatic mountains, sheltered fishing villages, the northern lights, the midnight sun, and a cultural history that stretches back thousands of years. For many Coastal Route travelers, Lofoten has long been one of the great highlights of the journey, but traditionally the visit has been limited to a few hours in port in Stamsund and Svolvær. Now, guests will have the opportunity to go ashore and truly immerse themselves in the landscapes, food, culture, and people that make the region unique.

During the stay at Thon Hotel Svolvær, guests will have a modern and comfortable base close to the harbor. Through a digital activity platform, they can easily book everything from sea eagle safaris and kayaking to local food experiences, museums, mountain hikes, and guided activities. This provides great flexibility while also supporting local suppliers and jobs.

“We greatly appreciate the cooperation with Havila Voyages and are proud to have been selected as the hotel partner for Lofoten Coastal Stopover. This is a travel product that truly elevates the possibilities for those who want to experience Lofoten the way the archipelago deserves to be experienced,” says Erik Taraldsen, General Manager of Thon Hotel Svolvær and Thon Hotel Lofoten.

“Havila Voyages is one of the most important gateways to Lofoten, and especially to Svolvær. When guests arrive by sea, they arrive right in the heart of our coastal culture – just as Lofoten was originally meant to be experienced. The new stopover package gives travelers time to relax and let the impressions sink in. The result is greater ripple effects for local business and more sustainable year-round tourism”.

Martini at Havila Voyages also highlights the positive ripple effects the new product will bring.

“Guests who stay for several days spend more time – and more money – at the destination, strengthening both local business and year-round tourism, which in turn helps secure local jobs throughout the year,” he says.

Lofoten Coastal Stopover will be available for booking from week 12, with the first departures in May 2026.

“We look forward to welcoming Havila Voyages’ guests and showcasing the very best Lofoten has to offer. Together, we are creating a product that takes both the region and the coastal experience to an even higher level. We look forward to developing the cooperation further in the years to come,” Taraldsen concludes on behalf of Thon Hotel Svolvær and Thon Hotel Lofoten.