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Norwegian cruise company, Hurtigruten, is to establish an office in Seattle in a move to strengthen its North American presence.
At the same time, the cruise company is expanding its relationship with sales and channel management firm, Seattle-based Global Voyages Group. The strategic partnership will enable greater integration of marketing, sales and reservations with distribution spread across travel agents, tour operators and the consumer.
“This is a very strategic market for us where we currently have a small share,” Hurtigruten CEO Daniel Skjeldam said. “We want a much more aggressive approach for the North American marketplace and expect significant growth in the years to come. Global Voyages Group has demonstrated extensive experience in the growing expedition style category, as well as with Alaska tourism, which makes them an ideal partner.”
David Giersdorf, president, Global Voyages Group, added: “We are very optimistic and honoured to be a partner to such a differentiated and unique brand as Hurtigruten, and look forward to further strengthening our cooperation. Americans find Norway unique and attractive, and desire a more activity- and experience-based holiday. The voyages along the Norwegian Coast, Antarctica and Arctic are all appealing holiday options.
Hurtigruten provides Norwegian Sea voyages as well as expedition sailings to remote regions of Arctic and Antarctica.
“American travel and lifestyle trends are confirming a growing interest for nature, activity and experiential holidays,” Skjeldam said. “A Hurtigruten voyage is positioned perfectly in that regard as it offers authentic experiences close to the Norwegian coastal culture and majestic natural scenery as well as the remote regions of the Arctic and Antarctica.”