Hurtigruten has been proudly presenting the Norwegian fjords to Norwegian and foreign travellers since 1893. We can confidently state that the Norwegian travel industry would be much poorer without the sustainable management of our fantastic nature in general, and our unique fjords in particular.
Once again National Geographic Traveler magazine has placed the Norwegian fjords at the top of its list of destinations, an evaluation of the world's most celebrated and iconic travel destinations undertaken in cooperation with the National Geographic Center for Sustainable destinations. This is the sixth annual "Places Rated" Destination Stewardship survey, and the Norwegian fjords have topped the list on no less than three occasions. In 2007 Norway stuck another feather in its cap when Lofoten was voted the third best island destination in the world.
"The integrity and world renown of National Geographic, as well as its global penetration makes this one of the most important awards in travel industry internationally. The fact that the Norwegian fjords have once again topped the list is an affirmation of the unique natural assets that we possess. We are delighted by the results and would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Fjord Norway on its success," says Christian Bue Nordahl, Global Brand Manager at Hurtigruten ASA.
This award will further reinforce the recognition of Norway as an attractive travel destination.
"For many foreign travellers Hurtigruten represents their first encounter with the Norwegian fjords and Norwegian nature. Ever since Richard With founded the route in 1893 there has been a strong bond between the Norwegian fjords and Hurtigruten. Our 11 ships sail these waters every single day and the Norwegian fjords are one of our strongest cards. The fact that Norwegian destinations are once again placed at the top by National Geographic tells us that we are doing all the right things in a sustainable Norwegian travel industry," says Bue Nordahl.
In 2008 over 100 000 foreign visitors experienced the fjords and the Norwegian coast between Bergen and Kirkenes with Hurtigruten.
About the survey:
133 destinations were surveyed by 437 travel experts, and rated based on the following six criteria: Environmental and ecological quality; social and cultural integrity; condition of historic buildings and archaeological sites; aesthetic appeal; quality of tourism management and outlook for the future.
Hurtigruten has been the original coastal voyage since 1893, and offers genuine experiences in unique waters. Hurtigruten consists of 11 ships operating year round along the Norwegian coast, as well as the explorer ship MS Fram, which sails to Svalbard, Antarctica, Greenland and Europe.
Norway is an incredibly beautiful and scenic country. When I travelled there, I went on one of the Hurtigruten ships and I think it is probably the best way to see the stunning scenery of the Norwegian Coastline.
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