Hurtigruten itineraries inject £192m into Norwegian economy
A new study conducted by Hurtigruten and Menon Economics has revealed that the line’s itineraries generate £192 million to the Norwegian economy annually through the purchase of goods and services
Figures from 2024 reveal that 70 local food and drink suppliers provided more than three million onboard meals; 208,000 excursions were sold in Northern Norway across 70 experiences, delivered in partnership with 65 local operators and 4,010 direct; and indirect jobs were supported nationwide.
The update follows the announcement of Hurtigruten’s Open Village concept, giving guests the chance to visit the coastal villages of Træna, Bessaker, and Sæbø between May and September.
For every guest who joins, Hurtigruten contributes NOK 250 (about £18/€20) to the host village. The funds go directly to local businesses, helping to support sustainable tourism and keep Norway’s coastal communities thriving.
“Tourism should be more than sightseeing. It must create value, jobs, and a positive impact on the communities it touches,” said Hedda Felin, CEO of Hurtigruten.
“Around the world, we’re seeing an ever-growing demand for tourism that actively protects the destinations travellers come to experience. Our carefully managed approach shows how travel, and especially the cruise industry, can truly support local communities instead of straining or overwhelming them. By involving these communities at every step, tourism becomes a genuine force for good – and the example we’re setting here in Norway can inspire change across our entire industry.”
One of the local businesses that has benefited from Hurtigruten’s coastal cruises is Arctic Coast, a snowmobile touring company founded by Jan Olav Evensen in Kjolleford.
Through close collaboration with Hurtigruten, Arctic Coast has grown steadily over the last 18 years and become a key part of Norway’s adventure tourism industry, attracting travellers seeking sustainable, culture-rich experiences above the Arctic Circle.
Evansen said: “Hurtigruten is the backbone of our operations. We started from zero eighteen years ago and the predictability of the agreement with Hurtigruten allows us to build other activities with tour operators in new markets. In an industry that is often seasonal, this partnership has created year-round jobs in local tourism. That’s incredibly important in a fishing village with so few residents.”
Hurtigruten offers year-long sailings for local travellers, cargo and international tourists since 1893. The line has been a part of Norway’s infrastructure, combating over tourism with smaller ships carrying about 500 passengers and calls at 34 coastal ports with only a few hundred residents.
