The long-standing successful collaboration with Viking Line continues this year, now with the ship Birka Gotland, which the shipping company co-owns with Gotlandsbolaget and since this spring operates through the newly started company Gotland Alandia Cruises. Birka Gotland will call at Härnösand a total of seven times in 2024. Three calls have already taken place, the last one before the summer will be on Wednesday 19 June. – The High Coast continues to be an attractive destination and our magnificent nature combined with experiences and great hospitality is appreciated by both travelers and shipping companies, says Mattias Peterson, CEO of High Coast Destination Development.

This year, the German cruise line Phoenix Reisen is also returning to the High Coast with two different ships. On June 15, MS Deutschland will arrive in Härnösand and travelers will have the opportunity to visit Hemsö Fortress, Hotell Hägä Kusten and take a city walk in Härnösand, including a visit to Vårdkasberget.

– It is incredibly gratifying that the international cruise market has opened its eyes to us and now we hope that our fine hospitality and exciting destination can arouse curiosity and become a springboard for more foreign visits, says Linda Gradin, Business Developer, Härnösand Municipality.

On July 7, the MS Amadea will arrive in Örnsköldsvik and there the 600 German passengers will have the opportunity to take a city tour, visit Själevad Church, which was previously named Sweden's most beautiful church, and see Varvsberget's breathtaking view of the archipelago and the city.

– Our inner harbor has great potential to receive cruise calls. It is appreciated to dock in Örnsköldsvik with its immediate proximity to the city center with restaurants, shopping and attractions. We welcome MS Amadea to our location in the High Coast and hope for more return visits to us, says Marlene J Bolstad, Business Developer Örnsköldsvik Municipality.

During Viking Line's seven cruises, Höga Kusten Turistservice, together with Härnösand Municipality, is on board the ship and welcomes travelers in the port. The collaboration between the municipalities, the destination company and the industry has proven to be very successful and means that many travelers choose to return with a motorhome or tell family and friends about the Höga Kusten.

– It is member companies of Höga Kusten Turism that organize the shore excursions. Together we put together packages with buses, guiding, food, experiences, and we are happy to note that the arrangements are of a high standard and that travelers find them comfortable and affordable, says Anna Hellgren, operations manager for Höga Kusten Turism.

The land arrangements for the cruise ships have also given Höga Kusten Turism the inspiration to start a group travel agency that is currently under construction.

– We want to help our companies reach out with packages and we want to be able to tailor arrangements to the demand of different groups – everything from pensioner trips by bus to exclusive conference arrangements for the small management group or the large event, concludes Anna.

According to the press release.