Press release -
Hurtigruten Appoints Tom Kerss as the World's First Chief Aurora Chaser, Pioneering Unmatched Northern Lights Voyages in Norway
Oslo, Norway (March 25, 2024) – Hurtigruten, the iconic leader in Norwegian coastal voyages, has proudly announced an unprecedented collaboration with Tom Kerss, the esteemed Northern Lights astronomer.
In a historic move, Hurtigruten has appointed Kerss as the world's first Chief Aurora Chaser, solidifying its status as the foremost authority in Northern Lights experiences and promising travelers an unrivaled journey into the heart of Norway's Arctic waters.
Tom Kerss will act as an onboard expert on designated Hurtigruten voyages, offering invaluable insights into the Northern Lights phenomenon. Moreover, he will elevate the guest experience by leading digital talks, webinars, and workshops, as well as organizing engaging and innovative guest-focused activities and events, thereby enriching their overall experience.
Hurtigruten is simultaneously extending the period covered by its unique Northern Lights Guarantee to commence in mid-September, aiming to inspire even more guests to witness this extraordinary phenomenon.
Hurtigruten has long been synonymous with the best of Norway's natural wonders. The groundbreaking partnership underscores Hurtigruten's unwavering commitment to providing unparalleled experiences of the Northern Lights, reaffirming Norway as the ultimate destination to witness this awe-inspiring natural phenomenon.
CEO Hedda Felin expressed her excitement by stating: "With Tom Kerss as our very own Chief Aurora Chaser, the world’s first-ever as far as we know, we're taking our Northern Lights commitment to new heights. Together, we're revolutionizing the Northern Lights experience, offering guests an unparalleled opportunity to witness this breathtaking phenomenon in the most immersive way imaginable."
Tom Kerss, a renowned and experienced expert in the field of astronomy and the Northern Lights, brings a wealth of expertise and passion to the role. "The Northern Lights is one of nature's most mesmerizing spectacles," said Kerss. "I am thrilled to partner with Hurtigruten to pioneer a truly unforgettable experience for their adventurous and knowledge-seeking guests. Together, we will not only witness the Northern Lights but also unravel the secrets and stories behind its beauty and nature, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime."
"Norway is undeniably the premier location for experiencing the Northern Lights, and Hurtigruten provides an unparalleled platform for travelers to witness this celestial marvel," added Kerss. "Teaming up with Hurtigruten amplifies our ability to share the magic of this phenomenon with travelers from around the globe, making unparalleled voyages to witness the astonishing Arctic skies."
Expanding the Northern Lights Promise Period
As an added dimension to the new partnership, Hurtigruten recently announced the extension of its Northern Lights Promise sailing period, scheduled to commence in mid-September, providing guests with enhanced opportunities to witness the Aurora Borealis. This expansion, further bolstered by the new groundbreaking partnership with Tom Kerss, underscores their joint commitment to elevating the guest experience by aligning cruise schedules with optimal Northern Lights viewing conditions.
Hurtigruten has also launched select astronomy 25/26 season sailings, offering guests exclusive opportunities to sail with renowned astronomers and enjoy multiple lectures and Northern Lights viewings onboard, making it an even more unforgettable voyage. They follow a highly successful 2023/24 season with a number of astronomer-hosted sailings.
For more information and to book Hurtigruten Northern Lights voyages, please visit Hurtigruten.comor call Hurtigruten directly at 888.501.6034.
For more information, please contact:
Anders Lindström
+1.646.944.9029
Anders.Lindstrom@hurtigruten.com
High-res images of Tom Kerss can be downloaded here.
Please visit Hurtigruten Group’s online media center here, where you can download high-res images and videos and access the press release archive.
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About Hurtigruten
Hurtigruten, established in 1893, is a Norwegian coastal cruise company renowned for its unique voyages along the stunning Norwegian coastline and beyond. With a legacy spanning over a century, Hurtigruten offers authentic and immersive experiences, showcasing the natural beauty and cultural richness of the destinations it visits – offering its guest to truly live the legend of Norway.
With a fleet of modern and environmentally conscious ships, including two dedicated vessels for Svalbard and North Cape sailings, Hurtigruten combines authentic experience with sustainability, offering travelers unforgettable journeys while aiming to minimizing their impact on the environment and maximizing value creation for local partners.
hurtigruten.com
About Tom Kerss
Tom Kerss is an astronomer, author, and consultant from the UK, and a fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society He has written numerous best-selling books about the night sky for both adults and children, including Northern Lights: The Definitive Guide to Auroras, and has formerly worked at the Royal Observatory in London. A resolute stargazer and experienced aurora-chaser, Tom now shares his passion for the stars with people all over the world and is often featured in major media offering insights about the latest developments in space. He loves nothing more than to seek out the darkest and most beautiful skies on Earth.
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Topics
Hurtigruten Group - World leader in exploration travel
Building on 130 years of Norwegian pioneering heritage, Hurtigruten is today the world's largest expedition cruise company.
Hurtigruten’s rapidly growing fleet of custom-build expedition ships takes modern-day adventure travellers to the world’s most spectacular destinations - from the High North to Antarctica in the south.
Being the world leader in exploration travel comes with a great responsibility. Hurtigruten is enhancing destinations and runs an responsible, sustainable global operation. Read more about Hurtigruten's sustainability efforts here.
