Gerry Larsson-Fedde, Chief Operating Officer of Hurtigruten Cruises, on navigation skills, meeting guests and favourite ports What’s the role of a captain at sea?
What’s your role at Hurtigruten?
I’m chief operating officer, and I’ve been in the maritime industry and held commanding officer and captain’s positions for 40 years. My role today means I head up the daily operations of our fleet of nine ships, each with around 500 passengers on board.
What sets Hurtigruten apart from other cruises?
On board our ships the crew, food and travel experience is proudly Norwegian. As we sail inside passage – that means taking a route close to the coast – we offer the most scenic cruising with wonderful views each day. With local passengers as well as tourists on board, you’ll find you’re truly travelling as part of your destination. Calling at up to six ports a day also lets you see small places no other operator will access.
Do you prefer large or smaller ships?
Smaller ships, because they bring you closer to the destination, crew and your fellow guests. Our onboard atmosphere is completely different from that of larger cruise ships – after a few days you are on a first-name basis with everybody.
The captain is the master of the ship, with overall responsibility y for the safety and wellbeing of guests and crew. As Hurtigruten en vessels can visit several ports each day, the captain’s role is very operative compared to the larger cruise ships.
You really get to use your navigating skills.
n Do Hurtigruten captain’s meet their guests?
Yes, even though the main ain role is on the bridge. It’s always l enjoyable to meet guests, and you’d rarely seek the role of captain if you didn’t like meeting people or making new friends.
We have captains and crew members who have made life-long friends with guests from our cruises.
What Wh is your favourite Hurtigruten Hu voyage or o port?
That’s T a hard question. The Norwegian coast has pearls spread from Oslo to Kirkenes in the north. I must recommend my home h town of Bergen, and small sm ports such as Havøysund, Hav Kjøllefjord or Vardø, which you can only visit with Hurtigruten. Hurti It’s also hard to pick a favourite voyage, but I’d say the Coastal Express. It’s a complete experience, not easy to split into stand-alone highlights.