Passengers evacuated from Havila Polaris in Norway due to overheating issue

Louise Hill, 78, originally from Australia and now residing in Italy, had long looked forward to experiencing Norway’s stunning coastline aboard the Havila Polaris. However, her dreams were dashed when all passengers were evacuated on Wednesday due to overheating in the vessel’s propulsion system. The remaining itinerary has now been canceled, leaving Hill deeply disappointed. “I am very, very disappointed. I don’t know if I can come back next year, as I am almost 80,” she stated.

Lasse Vangstein, communications director for Havila, expressed sorrow for the passengers missing out on their coastal adventure. “We are deeply sorry for our passengers, but we cannot compromise on safety. The safety of passengers, crew, and the ship is our top priority,” he said. Vangstein acknowledged the seriousness of overheating situations, citing the crew’s effective management of the issue.

Havila has committed to refunding all passengers who booked full or partial trips, as well as unused excursions. Passengers on shorter trips are being offered alternative transport solutions and partial refunds.

Louise Hill shared that she and her late husband had planned this trip together since his retirement 20 years ago. “Now I am alone, and I am extra disappointed,” she confided. Vangstein also indicated that they hope to have Havila Polaris back to normal operations by August 3.

Despite the mishap, some passengers remained optimistic. Andreas Leutenegger from Zurich found the journey amazing, though cut short, and plans to return. Meanwhile, Charles Lindgren from Minnesota, whose trip was reduced from seven days to two, opted for a road trip instead, expressing his satisfaction with Havila’s refund policy and how the situation was handled.