Ship of the Year award

Vision of The Fjords, operated by The Fjords DA, is a 399-passenger capacity tourist vessel, was built to carry visitors through the heart of spectacular Nærøyfjord, and mimic and protect the dramatic nature surrounding it.

Rolf Sandvik, CEO, The Fjords, said: “The judges understood that we, and our owners Fjord1 and Flåm AS, are absolutely committed to a long-term strategy that safeguards the spellbinding nature of Nærøyfjord and its surrounding waterways.”

“We’re incredibly proud of the accolade, but prouder still of what this vessel means for the environment, the tourism experience in this awe-inspiring area and, of course, for the individual memories it gives everyone that travels upon it.”

The vessel’s design pays homage to the zigzagging mountain paths of the Western Norwegian fjords, while utilising an environmentally friendly hybrid propulsion system to bring passengers closer to nature and minimise its own operational footprint.

Electric motors allow silent, emission free running in Nærøyfjord, with a specially designed hull minimising wake to reduce impact erosion on the vulnerable shoreline. At the same time the vessel’s unique form allows visitors to literally climb over it to get as close as possible to the stunning scenery.

Sweeping windows, and comfortable lounges, mean those that want to stay inside can still enjoy outside through an inspiring glass panorama.

Mr Sandvik continued: “We see this, and our award, as just the start of a journey. There are too many tourist boats in the fjords, including some of our own, that are old and environmentally unfriendly, poisoning the very environment that attracts them.”

“We have a vision, and dedicated owners with the desire and finances, to do things differently – putting nature first and pioneering tourist operations that delight customers while preserving habitats.”