Havila Voyages announced that its second cruiseferry, Havila Castor, would start operating from Bergen (Norway) on May 10, a month later than previously scheduled.
The vessel, which was due to start operations on April 7, is being built at the Tersan shipyard (Turkey), where she is currently unable to carry out sea trials because of challenges with an electric motor.
The CEO of Havila Kystruten, Bent Martini apologized to those passengers who had been looking forward to exploring the Norwegian coast aboard Havila Castor. He said they very much looked forward to welcoming them onboard in the future and were contacting them to discuss an alternative voyage.
Martini confirmed that Havila’s first ship, Havila Capella, had been well received and both Havila Capella and Havila Castor were almost fully booked throughout the summer.
“We have had alot of feedback from satisfied guests who are enjoying the good food and large cabins and appreciate the ship’s large windows showcasing the regions she sails through. They are also giving us positive comments about the high standard of service and comfortable accommodation onboard.”
Havila also announced that its 3rd and 4th cruiseferries, Havila Polaris and Havila Pollux were likely to be impacted.
Martini added they assumed that Havila Polaris would start operating in the 3rd quarter and Havila Pollux in the 4th quarter of 2022. At this stage, they were unable to confirm the exact dates but were doing everything they could to ensure they could put the ships into operation as quickly as possible, "for the benefit of all who will travel and work on board.”
A new agreement was made with the Norwegian Ministry of Transport and Communications, which is responsible for Havila’s coastal contract, who confirmed they were not demanding replacement vessels were put in place during the delays.