Discover the Nordlys: Ratings & Maritime News

In a remarkable display of maritime cooperation, the 'Nordlys' ferry, carrying over 100 passengers, sprang into action to assist a fishing vessel that had encountered a critical engine failure in the treacherous waters off Kvænangen on the night of August 15, 2020. Stranded in perilous conditions, the fishing boat, which was manned by a two-person crew, found itself adrift in harsh weather and rough seas. Responding swiftly, the 'Nordlys' altered its course after receiving a distress call relayed by the Main Rescue Center over the coastal radio. The ferry maintained control of the situation until the Coast Guard arrived on the scene to take over the rescue operation. For additional details and visuals, check out the Norwegian report here: https://www.vg.no/nyheter/innenriks/i/70X0wV/sjark-fikk-motorstopp-ble-reddet-av-hurtigruteskip.

On January 17, 2020, at 7:10 A.M., a fishing vessel encountered trouble as it ran aground on rocky terrain at Refnesoddden in West-Finnmark. The boat was en route from Kokelv in Finnmark to Hammerfest when it became stuck south of Havøysund in Måsøy. The vessel's crew, comprising two fishermen, promptly contacted emergency services by dialing 110. Shortly thereafter, a mayday relay was broadcast by the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC). Responding to the distress call were a Sea King helicopter from the Hanak base, the passenger ferry 'Årøy' (IMO: 9753806), and the NSSR lifeboat 'Odin' (MMSI: 258280500) from the Havøysund station. The 'Nordlys' helicopter launched a Man Overboard (MOB) boat, which was successfully deployed to retrieve the stranded fishermen and transport them safely aboard the ferry. The vessel was taken to Havøysund amidst light winds and frigid temperatures of -4 degrees Celsius. Fortunately, the grounded vessel remained stable on the rocks after the tide receded. The lifeboat 'Odin' was scheduled to return at 6 P.M. to attempt a salvage operation on the stuck vessel. For more in-depth coverage, including visuals, visit the original reports from Norwegian sources: [Fiskeribladet](https://fiskeribladet.no/nyheter/?artikkel=71030) and [Aftenposten](https://www.aftenposten.no/norge/i/2GlPGR/de-dramatiske-bildene-fra-helikopteret-viser-hvordan-fiskerne-ble-reddet-av-hurtigruten).

In a significant development for the Norwegian cruise industry, Hurtigruten has successfully repurchased the NORDLYS, following its acquisition of the RICHARD WITH in late November 2022. This strategic move, completed in mid-January 2023, showcases Hurtigruten's commitment to strengthening its fleet and enhancing its travel offerings. Additionally, the company has taken another step forward by formally submitting a bid for the Kystruten tender, signaling its ambition to further its operations along Norway's stunning coastal routes.