Norwegian cruise operator Havila Voyages, which already operates four innovative LNG and battery-powered vessels, is preparing to take the next step — launching the first climate-neutral cruise along the coast of Norway.
Test Cruise on Biogas and Batteries
According to CEO Bent Martini, Havila plans to run a full-scale trial this autumn on its coastal route from Bergen to Kirkenes and back. The ship will sail more than 5,000 nautical miles, powered entirely by biogas in combination with large battery packs.
“We are negotiating with suppliers to fully fill our tanks with biogas, and we believe we can complete the voyage without any climate impact,” said Martini.
Green Technology in Action
Havila’s fleet consists of four vessels with a gross tonnage of 15,800, each designed for 650 passengers. The ships run on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and are equipped with 6.1 MWh battery packs, enabling up to four hours of zero-emission sailing.
In 2022, Havila already proved its technology when the Havila Castor completed a voyage through the historic Geirangerfjord operating solely on battery power.
Impact on the Shipping Industry
Havila Voyages believes its project will serve as a model for the entire maritime sector and support Norway’s transition to zero-emission coastal shipping, which begins in 2026.
Norway’s plan includes a phased approach:
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🚢 starting with vessels under 10,000 GT,
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⚡️ deploying battery- and hydrogen-powered ferries,
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🌱 and by 2032, achieving full zero-emission operations in coastal routes and historic fjords.
Martini emphasized that stricter environmental standards are achievable with modern technology, and called on policymakers to follow through on their commitments.
Historical Context
Havila made history back in 2018, when it secured a contract for coastal operations between 2021 and 2030, breaking the long-standing monopoly of Hurtigruten, which is also investing in battery retrofits and next-generation zero-emission vessels.
With this initiative, Havila Voyages once again positions itself as a pioneer of sustainable cruising, proving that climate-neutral voyages are no longer a dream but a reality.
