Havila Voyages has effectively expanded its fleet with the inclusion of the Havila Polaris and Havila Pollux.
These additions mark a significant step for the Norwegian company as they continue their commitment to sustainability and operational efficiency.
Significant Milestone Achieved
Havila Voyages has celebrated the delivery of its two new ships, Havila Polaris and Havila Pollux, at the Tersan shipyard in Turkey. The recent expansion effectively doubles the company’s fleet, marking a major milestone in its strategic growth plan. Bent Martini, Havila’s chief executive, heralded this event as the culmination of sustained effort and determination.
“We have now reached our goal following a process that required a lot of time, resources, and perseverance.”, stated Martini, underpinning the strategic and operational challenges overcome during this journey.
Operational Plans and Itinerary
The Havila Polaris is set to commence its voyages from Bergen on August 17, with Havila Pollux to follow shortly, embarking on the same route from August 23. This entry into service not only enhances Havila’s operational capacity but also strengthens its presence along the well-traveled Norwegian coast.
These new vessels reflect the company’s ambition to grow and provide unparalleled experiences to its passengers, maintaining a commitment to both luxury and environmental sustainability.
Financial Accomplishments and Ownership
Securing complete ownership and refinancing of the fleet was a pivotal achievement for Havila Voyages. The investment in the coastal route ships, each valued at approximately 150 million euros, underscores the financial prowess and strategic intent of the company.
Earlier this year, Havila Voyages successfully acquired the necessary licenses to finance its entire coastal fleet, ensuring full ownership and negating prior financial securities.
“The four coastal route ships represent significant financial value, and we wanted to find a financing partner that would give us full ownership of our ships.”, Martini commented, highlighting the successful refinancing process.
Commitment to Sustainability
Havila Polaris and Havila Pollux come equipped with innovative battery packs of 6.1 MWh, enabling emission-free operations for up to four hours. This feature aligns perfectly with Havila’s vision of environmentally responsible cruising.
The CEO noted, “For us, it is important to prove our commitment to climate, the environment, and sustainability.” Martini emphasised that this is more than just a marketing position, it is a fundamental part of Havila’s operational philosophy.
Aiming for Carbon Neutrality
Havila Voyages has pledged to pursue zero-emission sails by 2023, reinforcing its promise toward environmental stewardship. The organisation aims to be carbon neutral by 2028, and the current fleet developments are critical to facilitating this vision.
The company’s notable achievement of a zero-emission cruise to Norway has set a historic benchmark, showcasing its proactive approach to sustainable travel solutions for the cruise industry.
Havila’s Strategic Future
Looking forward, Havila Voyages is positioned to leverage its expanded fleet capacity and strategic sustainability initiatives to capitalise on emerging opportunities within the cruise sector.
With a solid operational foundation and an unwavering commitment to sustainable practices, the company is poised to enhance its offering, providing unmatched experiences for its clients while staying true to its environmental commitments.
Continued Commitment to Excellence
Havila Voyages continues to set new standards in the cruise industry with its focused strategy on fleet expansion and sustainable innovation. The successful integration of the Havila Polaris and Havila Pollux is not only a testament to the company’s resilience but also its dedication to setting benchmarks in the sector.
Havila Voyages’ expansion with the Havila Polaris and Havila Pollux marks a pivotal moment in its operational history. This development not only supports its strategic objectives but also affirms its commitment to environmental sustainability and innovation.
