Karl WP Beyer October 29, 2025 –A new economic analysis (“Ripple Report”) by Menon Economics shows that Hurtigruten’s long-established coastal express route generates approximately €219 million in added value annually along the Norwegian coast – primarily through the purchase of goods and services on land. In 2024, nearly 200.000 guests traveled with Hurtigruten, recording 684.000 overnight stays; a total of 4.010 jobs were supported directly and indirectly..
Hurtigruten has been part of Norway's infrastructure since 1893 – serving locals, freight, and international travelers. While many places are limiting visitor numbers or reducing port calls, Hurtigruten traditionally relies on smaller ships with around 500 passengers. The ships call at 34 ports – including towns with only a few hundred inhabitants. This ensures that tourist revenue flows not only to popular tourist destinations but also broadly to local businesses, shops, and service providers.
Hurtigruten - Nordnorge in Bergen
“Tourism should be more than just sightseeing. It must create value, secure jobs, and make a positive contribution to the communities it touches,” says Hedda Felin, CEO of Hurtigruten. “For more than 130 years, Hurtigruten has been a lifeline along the Norwegian coast. Our approach shows how travel – and cruises in particular – can truly support local communities instead of burdening them.”
Facts & Figures 2024
- 200.000 guests, 684.000 overnight stays
- 208.000 excursions in Northern Norway, over 70 experiences, implemented with 65 local partners
- 4.010 directly and indirectly supported jobs nationwide
- 70 regional food and beverage producers supply over three million meals on board.
- 47.000 freight deliveries between Bergen and Kirkenes
Real-world example: Kjøllefjord
In the fishing village of Kjøllefjord (population around 1.000), entrepreneur Jan Olav Evensen founded Arctic Coast 18 years ago – offering snowmobile tours and Sami cultural experiences. Close cooperation with Hurtigruten helped establish a year-round tourist offering and creates sustainable local jobs.
Outlook: “Open Village” from 2026
With the "Open Village" initiative, Hurtigruten will extend community-based experiences to its entire Signature line starting in 2026. Between May and September, guests will visit remote villages such as Træna, Bessaker, and Sæbø – including insights into local traditions, homemade cuisine, and cultural activities at no extra cost. Hurtigruten will provide approximately €20 per guest, which will go directly to local businesses and strengthen community life.
Source: Ripple Report / Menon Economics; data for 2024. Editorial processing by Cruiseturtle.
