Norway's coastal shipping route will be shared by two operators from 2021, after Hurtigruten and Havila Kystruten won the 10-year Kystruten tender.
Starting in 2021 and running until 2030, Hurtigruten will operate seven ships and Havila Kystruten will operate four newbuilds on the subsidised 11-day round-trip routes with daily departures from Bergen.
Vessels sail north from Bergen towards Kirkenes and are obligated to stop at 34 ports during the voyage, carrying passengers, vehicles and other cargo.
The tender was part of a move by the state transport ministry to stimulate competition.
Under the new arrangements, the companies will alternate departure days.