In 2009 National Geographic Traveler Magazine once again placed the Norwegian fjords at the top of its list of destinations, following an evaluation of the world’s most celebrated and iconic travel destinations undertaken in cooperation with the National Geographic Centre for Sustainable Destinations. Hurtigruten plays a valuable and vital role in transporting passengers along the Fjords in Norway, 365 days a year.

133 destinations were surveyed by 437 travel experts, and rated based on the following six criteria: Environmental and ecological quality; social and cultural integrity; condition of historic buildings and archaeological sites; aesthetic appeal; quality of tourism management and outlook for the future. This is the sixth annual ‘Places Rated’ Destination Stewardship survey, and the Norwegian fjords have topped the list on no less than three occasions.

In 2007 Norway achieved a further accolade when Lofoten was voted the third best island destination in the world.

”The integrity and world renown of National Geographic, as well as its global penetration makes this one of the most important awards in the leisure travel industry. The fact that the Norwegian fjords have once again topped the list is an affirmation of the unique natural assets that we possess. We are delighted by the results and would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Fjord Norway on its success,” says Christian Bue Nordahl, Global Brand Manager at Hurtigruten ASA.

Hurtigruten has been offering voyages on the Norwegian fjords to Norwegian’s and travellers from all over the world since 1893. In 2008 over 100 000 foreign visitors experienced the fjords and the Norwegian coast between Bergen and Kirkenes with Hurtigruten.

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