Bergen Cruise Network established

Sustainability and Value Creation at the Core

This is a long-awaited initiative,” said Krysta Alexa Singh, who leads the network, during the launch.

“Our goal is to drive sustainable cruise development in the Bergen region. At the same time, we aim to increase local value creation. The network will also focus on communication, knowledge sharing, reputation building, and visibility. We will set the course together,” she emphasized.

Cruise tourism generates significant ripple effects for the local business community, but growth has also raised important questions about visitor management, sustainability, and collaboration. The establishment of Bergen Cruise Network is a concrete step toward strengthening coordination between public and private stakeholders – and toward developing a more holistic approach to cruise as part of the city’s visitor economy.

The Need for Closer Collaboration

Vestland County Council expressed clear support for the initiative.

“Tourism is an important industry for Western Norway. It creates both pride and identity,” said Senior Adviser Britt Dalland of Vestland County Council.
“At the same time, the tourism industry is fragmented. We need closer collaboration – across the county, within municipalities, and between the public and private sectors.”

She highlighted the importance of effective visitor management – a concept that involves ensuring maximum value creation through local businesses while safeguarding local communities and the environment.

“We need a methodology and a toolbox. We must work together and share experiences,” she stressed.

Several voices from the tourism and cruise industries also pointed to the opportunities the network can provide.

Untapped Opportunities

“It is important that we come together,” said Monica Berstad, Head of Cruise Norway.
“This is an opportunity for the local community. We must focus on product development, logistics, and local communities alike. There are untapped opportunities if we collaborate. We must steer development toward the kind of value creation we want – not just volume.”

“We care deeply about all the good stories that are out there,” said Sandra Diana Bratland, Director of Destination Affairs at Carnival Corporation, the world’s largest cruise company.
“We need to identify the facts, communicate the facts – and share the positive stories.”

From the audience came questions: How will the network operate in practice? What will it cost? How will effective collaboration be ensured? The discussion demonstrated both engagement and a willingness to contribute.

One point, however, was widely agreed upon: land-based and sea-based development must go hand in hand. Infrastructure is crucial. And to succeed, stakeholders must move forward together.

With Bergen Cruise Network, a new chapter in Bergen’s cruise history has begun – with the ambition of moving from port calls to value creation.