Hurtigruten represents the proud legacy of the Hurtigruten Group and has been a national icon since 1893, offering what many consider the world’s most stunning voyage along the Norwegian coastline. Currently, its seven ships call at 34 ports between Bergen and Kirkenes, connecting communities, transporting freight, and showcasing the beauty of the Norwegian coast to visitors from around the globe.
1893
Captain Richard With establishes Hurtigruten with the steamship DS Vesterålen, linking northern and southern Norway. The first voyage departs on July 2, 1893. 1896
The "Sports Route" between Hammerfest and Spitsbergen is introduced, and a hotel is shipped to Spitsbergen. 1937
All ships are equipped with sonar, an electronic logbook, and radio transmitters. 1940-1945
During WWII, 14 ships and 700 lives are lost. Post-war fleet redeployment is prioritized. 1949
MS Erling Jarl, the first post-war ship, is built. 1993
Hurtigruten celebrates its 100th anniversary and the construction of MS Kong Harald. 2002
Hurtigruten expands to Antarctic expeditions. 2010
Hurtigruten bans heavy fuel oil from its ships. 2011
MS Nordnorge’s voyage is broadcast live for 134 hours, setting a Guinness World Record. 2015
The Hurtigruten Foundation is established to support communities and environmental initiatives. 2018
Hurtigruten bans single-use plastics fleet-wide and celebrates its 125th anniversary. 2021
Certified biofuels are phased in on ships. 2022
Environmental upgrades begin, with hybrid-powered MS Richard With reducing CO2 emissions by 25%. The Sea Zero Project launches to develop an emission-free ship by 2030. 2023
Hurtigruten celebrates its 130th anniversary by launching the Svalbard and North Cape Lines.
Sustainability
Sea Zero
Hurtigruten has launched its most ambitious sustainability initiative in its 130-year history, aiming to develop a zero-emission propulsion ship designed for the Norwegian coast by 2030. They are collaborating with SINTEF, one of Europe's largest independent research organizations, to explore energy efficiency and battery power solutions.
Upgrading the Fleet
By 2025, Hurtigruten will implement one of the largest environmental ship upgrades in Europe, enhancing the fleet's energy efficiency. This upgrade aims to reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 25% and NOx by 80%, with three ships transitioning to hybrid power.
Towards Zero Food Waste
Food waste from the fleet is processed in a compost reactor at the port of Stamsund in the Lofoten Islands. This compost is then used by nearby Myklevik farm to grow new food for Norway and the ships, supporting local farmers and minimizing waste.
Eliminating Single-Use Plastics
In summer 2018, Hurtigruten became the first cruise line to eliminate single-use plastics across all ships and offices, spearheaded by Helga Bårdsdatter Kristiansen.
Awards & Accolades
Hurtigruten recognised by multiple 2023 sustainability travel awards for commitment to green travel
Recipient of the prestigious 2023 Sustainability Award by NTIA, Hurtigruten's accomplishment stands out with 1,483 peer nominations, 545 submissions, and 195 finalists.
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