Issue 01 / Q2 2025
Norway Cruise Brief
A newsletter from ECS Group -
Engaging with politics and business development
The Highlights
Editorial
Politics
Business development
- Cruising into the Future: Redefining Shore Excursions and Services
- Shorex Trends for 2025
- Authentic Local Experiences
- Commitment to Sustainability
- Innovation & Safety First
- Partnering for the Future
- More Than Port Calls – We Deliver What You Need, When You Need It
- Expanding into Namibia: A New Chapter Begins
Why Engagement Matters
Welcome to the very first edition of the Norway Cruise Brief – a new newsletter from ECS.
Starting now, we will publish twice a year: once before summer and once before the holiday season. Our goal is to keep international partners informed about the political landscape shaping the future of cruise tourism in Norway – and how we are responding.
Since 2019, ECS has actively engaged in national political processes that shape the future of the cruise industry in Norway. Our involvement was sparked by a proposal in the Norwegian Parliament to require zero emissions from ships in the World Heritage fjords by 2025. This marked a turning point – one that confirmed our belief in the power of proactive, knowledge-based dialogue.
We reached out to political parties across the spectrum and found that while not everyone agreed with us, many were open and willing to learn more about the cruise sector. This early experience taught us a vital lesson: active participation yields far more than silence.
Over the years, our engagement has deepened. From national tourism strategy efforts such as the Destination Commissions comprehensive review, to debates on tourism taxation, ECS has been a constructive voice grounded in facts and focused on solutions. Importantly, we’ve also built strong relationships at the regional and local political levels, recognizing that impactful policy often begins closer to communities.
We’ve identified three key challenges that Norway’s cruise sector must address:
- Distributing visitor flows to reduce congestion
- Enhancing local value creation
- Reducing emissions across the board
To meet these goals, ECS has initiated studies that highlight the cruise industry’s contributions, established dialogue with NGOs, and hosted public debates. While critical voices remain, the tone of the conversation has changed. The discourse is now more nuanced, more informed – and crucially, ECS is being heard.
We also see that these issues are not unique to cruise operators but shared across the broader tourism industry in Norway. That is why we are committed to continuing our role in shaping a more sustainable, balanced, and forward-looking travel sector.
With this newsletter, we aim to keep our international partners informed about key developments on the Norwegian political agenda – and how we are actively responding to them.
- Arthur Kordt, President ECS Group
Politics
Key political decisions 2024/2025: Developments for the Cruise Sector
World Heritage Fjords: Emission Deadline Extended
In August 2024, the Norwegian Government formally confirmed that the zero-emission requirement for large passenger vessels in the World Heritage fjords will take effect from 2032 – postponing the original 2025 deadline first adopted by Parliament in 2018. This marks a major milestone for ECS and industry stakeholders who have long warned that a 2025 implementation was not
technically feasible. The new timeline reflects a more realistic transition path while maintaining Norway’s ambitious climate goals.
Working & Wages Conditions: International Cruise Sector Exempted
On 2 June 2025, the Norwegian Parliament passed new legislation clarifying the application of Norwegian wage and working conditions for ships operating in Norwegian territorial waters. The law now applies to all vessels in domestic trade – regardless of flag – along with coastal transport, cruise ships, and service vessels such as those in the offshore sector.
However, international cruise ships sailing from foreign ports with Norway as their main destination are explicitly exempt from the new requirements. This exemption reflects concerns raised by ECS and other industry stakeholders about the disproportionate impact such regulation could have had on regional economies and coastal communities, especially in Northern Norway. The final decision marks an important policy win for the cruise sector and safeguards operational predictability for international itineraries.
Tourism Tax Adopted: Cruise Landing Fee and Accommodation Levy Approved
Following months of debate, the Norwegian Parliament has approved the Government s proposal for a new national tourism tax. The adopted scheme includes two key components: a 3% accommodation tax on hotel stays and other forms of paid lodging in municipalities that choose to participate, and a separate landing fee for cruise passengers.
While ECS opposed both measures in its formal response, arguing for more flexible, market-based solutions to fund local infrastructure, the final decision represents a political compromise. Notably, a delegation from the Lofoten Council played a key role in shaping the outcome, persuading national policymakers to adopt a more regionally adapted and time-limited version of the tax scheme.
Despite ECS’s reservations, the framework now provides municipalities with tools to manage tourism pressure and confirms that cruise-specific and accommodation-based levies will form part of Norway’s fiscal landscape going forward.
Together, these developments highlight the value of persistent, fact-based advocacy – and underscore the need for continued dialogue as cruise policy in Norway evolves.
Arendalsuka
Arendalsuka is Norway’s largest annual political gathering, held every August in the coastal town of Arendal. Since its inception in 2012, it has become a key arena for open debate and civic engagement, bringing together politicians, NGOs, businesses, academia, and the public to discuss pressing societal issues. The event aims to strengthen democracy through transparent dialogue and inclusive participation.
This year, we return to Arendalsuka with two events highlighting core issues for Norway’s tourism and cruise sectors:
From Cruise Calls to Destinations: How to Build Local Value
Wednesday 13 August, 11:30–12:30 | MS Sandnes, Langbryggen 20
ECS is hosting a lunch session exploring how coastal communities can turn cruise port calls into lasting value. Based on studies by Menon Economics, the event will present best-practice cases and common pitfalls in cruise-based destination development. Speakers include mayors from Eidfjord and Nordkapp, Menons CEO, and regional representatives from Vestland County.
Tourism 2035: Who Do We Welcome, and Why?
Tuesday 12 August, 09:00–09:45 | MS Sandnes, Langbryggen 20
With foreign tourism to Norway expected to grow by 30% by 2035, ECS invites a cross-sector panel to debate how this growth should unfold. The session will address expectations, local returns, and political responsibility—featuring voices from the tourism industry, Hurtigruten, Norwegian Trekking Association, and policymakers.
Business development
Andreas Storl,
CEO European Cruise Service
Amanda Kordt,
Director Shorex Excursions
Cruising into the Future: Redefining Shore Excursions and Services
As the summer season gets underway in Northern Europe, European Cruise Service is pleased to share the latest insights and developments from our work with shore excursions. Our focus is on guest expectations, sustainable partnerships, and how we can collectively deliver meaningful, memorable experiences in a changing world.
Shorex Trends for 2025
Cruise guests increasingly seek more than traditional sightseeing – they want immersive, purpose-driven experiences. From local cooking classes to artisan workshops, cultural excursions are gaining traction. Younger travellers in particular prioritize sustainability. Active experiences, tailor-made tours, and remote coolcation destinations are also seeing strong growth.
Authentic Local Experiences
We continue to strengthen our partnerships with local providers to deliver deeper cultural immersion. Our excursions provide direct access to communities, allowing guests to engage with locals and contribute to the local economy. Across all destinations, a local touch is key to the experience.
Commitment to Sustainability
Sustainability remains central to our operations. We collaborate with eco-certified partners and prioritize low-impact excursions. In Norway, our fleet includes 69 electric coaches – Bergen alone operates with 100% electric ground transport. As a Travelife partner nearing full certification, our goal is to create lasting value for guests and destinations alike.
Innovation & Safety First
Technology helps us enhance the guest experience, from intuitive booking to AR-based tours. We offer active options for all ages and fitness levels, with a growing focus on multi-generational and family-friendly excursions. Safety remains a top priority, supported by rigorous procedures and trusted local partners.
Partnering for the Future
We believe strong collaboration is key to delivering great shore excursions. We continue to develop new offers based on emerging trends, sustainability goals, and client feedback. Our mission remains the same: to create responsible, high-quality experiences for all.
Turnaround in Tromsø and Oslo
To support the development of Oslo and Tromsø as turnaround ports, ECS has partnered with Cruise Security. As security regulations evolve globally, we are committed to meeting the highest standards. The partnership enables us to offer professional scanning of passengers, luggage, and goods in full compliance with current regulations.
Expanding the Season: Winter Cruising in Northern Norway
Winter cruises in Northern Norway continue to grow in popularity, with the Northern Lights and Arctic experiences drawing new interest. ECS has supported the implementation of winter cruises for years, offering the operational expertise needed to ensure both ship readiness and unforgettable guest experiences.
Set Course for Norway's New ISPS-Ready Ports
Interest is rising in new, unique destinations across Norway. Gjesvær is now ISPS certified and offers access to authentic Arctic experiences. Several other ports have also achieved certification, opening new itinerary options. Contact us for the latest updates and support in planning your calls.
More Than Port Calls – We Deliver What You Need, When You Need It
Our port agency services go far beyond the pier. From urgent spare parts and fresh provisions to diving operations and time-sensitive logistics, our team is ready to assist. With a trusted network of local suppliers, we ensure fast, efficient solutions – tailored to your need
Expanding into Namibia: A New Chapter Begins
European Cruise Service has launched African Cruise Service, expanding operations to Namibia in response to growing demand from cruise lines. With a new regional hub in Walvis Bay and a dedicated local team, ECS now offers full ship agency services and curated shore excursions in this unique destination. Guests can look forward to dramatic landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and seamless service – delivered to the same high standards you expect from ECS.
