Harstad named Maritime Municipality of the Year at Arendalsuka in Norway

Harstad Municipality has been named the Maritime Municipality of the Year by Maritime Forum and Kystens Næringsliv. This announcement was made during an awards ceremony aboard the three-masted full-rigged ship Christian Radich at Arendalsuka on Tuesday evening.

According to the jury, the close collaboration between the municipality and local industries has been crucial in developing the maritime environment, establishing Harstad as one of the strongest maritime sectors in Norway. Fishery and Maritime Minister Marianne Sivertsen Næss highlighted this collaboration while announcing the award.

The decision to honor Harstad was based on over 3,000 votes submitted through the Kystens Næringsliv website. In addition, a professional jury evaluated the candidates, which included notable figures such as Knut Arild Hareide, managing director of the Norwegian Shipowners’ Association.

Hareide praised the municipality’s commitment to the maritime sector, its adaptability, and its engagement, stating that Harstad occupies a pivotal role in addressing key political priorities like security and green transition.

The jury also noted the municipality’s strategic shipyard environment and its significance within Norway’s security and preparedness landscape. Earlier this year, local politicians granted Norconsult AS permission to begin planning a new dry dock hall in Harstad. If realized, the hall would be about 40 meters tall, 160 meters long, and 37 meters wide, making Harstad more attractive for military contracts.

The award, which was presented for the first time in 2023, had Horten Municipality as the inaugural recipient, with Harstad competing against seven other municipalities in the finals.