After successfully refinancing, Havila Voyages has settled the termination amounts with the original lender, securing the funds in a blocked account. Consequently, all securities held by the former lender on the company's ships and assets have been released. This development marks a significant milestone for Havila Voyages, as it now becomes the legal owner of the coastal ferries Havila Capella and Havila Castor, completely free from any ties to the sanctioned and former lender.
CEO Bent Martini expressed his satisfaction with the refinancing process and the newfound ownership of both Havila Capella and Havila Castor. He acknowledged that the termination amount settlements had been time-consuming but stated that with this accomplished, they are ready to take delivery of Havila Polaris and Havila Pollux, two newly completed ships from the Tersan shipyard in Yalova (Turkey).
Unfortunately, the registration process for Havila Pollux faced delays, leading to a change in its scheduled departure from homeport Bergen (Norway) to August 23rd. However, Havila Polaris is set to start its route as planned on August 17th.
Next week, Havila Voyages will take delivery of both Polaris and Pollux, allowing their crews to board them promptly. Following customs clearance and final checks, the ships will embark on their journey back to Norway. The voyage duration of 10 to 12 days depends on weather conditions. Once in Bergen, the team will work diligently to prepare the ships, ensuring they are ready to welcome the first guests on board for their maiden voyages.
Martini concluded by acknowledging the challenges they faced and the busy days that lie ahead, but he remains optimistic about the future of Havila Voyages with its newly acquired vessels.