Hurtigruten Group announced it was strengthening its partnership with significant investment in Metropolitan Touring - one of the leading travel companies in South America and pioneers in the Galapagos Islands.
The long-term investment sees Hurtigruten take a 24,9% share in Metropolitan Touring (Quito Ecuador-headquartered) and further demonstrates the Norwegian company's global growth ambitions in the adventure travel market.
Daniel Skjeldam (Hurtigruten Group's CEO) said the investment signified their growth journey and they were delighted to invest in Metropolitan Touring, "a proud South American company" that mirrored their expedition heritage and sustainability values.
"It is a unique opportunity for us to contribute to a more meaningful partnership, where we can expand quickly, strategically and deliver on our vision for the future together.”
The partnership broadens Hurtigruten’s portfolio of products in natural destinations, reinforcing the position of the Group as a leader in sustainable adventure travel.
Hurtigruten Expeditions, currently the world's largest expedition cruise brand and subsidiary of Hurtigruten Group, offers year-round voyages, in cooperation with Metropolitan Touring, visiting the archipelago’s most spectacular sites onboard the 90-passenger superyacht Santa Cruz II.
Its passengers can already explore land-based South America adventures before/after their cruise, such as the vibrant city life of Quito, the iconic Cusco-Machu Picchu, the Cotopaxi National Park.