TORONTO — Hurtigruten Group has acquired a minority stake in Metropolitan Touring, a leading travel company in South America that specializes in the Galapagos Islands.

The long-term investment sees Hurtigruten Group take a 24.9% share in the Quito-based company, which will broaden the Group’s portfolio of products in natural destinations and reinforce its position as a leader in sustainable adventure travel.

As part of the deal, Hurtigruten Expeditions, part of Hurtigruten Group, will offer year-round expedition cruises onboard the 90-guest Santa Cruz II, in close cooperation with Metropolitan Touring. While guests can already explore land-based South America adventures before or after their voyage, including Machu Picchu, the partnership will further expand into more unique land-based programs and excursions.

“This investment signifies our growth journey and we are delighted to invest in Metropolitan Touring, a proud South American company that mirrors our expedition heritage and sustainability values,” said Daniel Skjeldam, CEO of Hurtigruten Group. “It is a unique opportunity for us to contribute to a more meaningful partnership, where we can expand quickly, strategically and deliver on our vision for the future together.”

Metropolitan Touring CEO Paulina Burbano de Lara added: “Hurtigruten Group share our passion for the wonders of South America and we are excited by the prospect of this partnership, which brings together two companies that have a common long-term vision of our industry’s power to do good in the world.

“As we continue the post-COVID recovery, this announcement will bolster South America’s position as an exciting travel destination on the global stage, bringing its stunning natural and compelling cultural attractions into sharper focus for today’s responsible traveller.”