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Liberation Convoy 2025
Celebrating 80 years of Anglo-Norwegian heroism on the north sea
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On May 8, 2025, we will commemorate the 80th anniversary of peace in 1945 with a grand tribute featuring six historic Norwegian veteran vessels, alongside partners from both Norway and the United Kingdom. These iconic ships include:
  • D/S Hestmanden, Norwegian War Sailor Museum, the last surviving vessel from Nortraship's extensive fleet.
  • KNM Hitra, one of three submarine chasers used by the Shetland Bus operations.
  • Two Shetland fishing vessels, M/K Heland and M/K Andholmen.
  • M/K Erkna and M/B Arnefjord, used to transport soldiers, resistance fighters and fugitives to and from Norway.
Together, these vessels will sail in convoy from Bergen to various ports in the UK, honouring the immense contributions of Norwegian war sailors and celebrating peace in the nation that became a second home for many Norwegians during the war.

DS Hestmanden DS Hestmanden DS Hestmanden The journey begins in Bergen, with the convoy setting sail for Lerwick, Shetland, where we will celebrate 8 May, Liberation Day. Following this, the voyage continues to Liverpool for a joint 17 May (Norwegian Constitution Day) celebration with our British allies in one of the most critical convoy ports of World War II. From Liverpool, the ships will split up to visit as many UK ports as possible before returning to Norway. During each stop, the ships will open their decks to the public, offering free entry and a chance to explore their rich history. Visitors will enjoy:
  • Guided tours and onboard exhibitions.
  • Educational programs for schools and younger generations.
  • Documentary screenings, lectures, and events sharing stories of the war sailors.
  • Displays of maritime and technical history preserved in these authentic vessels.
This unique experience will not only honour the sacrifices of veterans and war sailors but also serve to educate new generations about the cost of freedom and the importance of preserving peace.

The peace of 1945 marked the end of six brutal years of conflict, during which many Norwegian war sailors spent their time in exile. Out of over 30,000 sailors who served, around 4,500 lost their lives. Countless others endured psychological and physical traumas that affected them and their families long after the war ended. The treatment of war sailors after the war has been described as one of Norway’s greatest historical injustices.

Today, as the world faces renewed turbulence with violent conflicts in several regions - including Europe - it is more important than ever to reflect on the lessons of the past. Through this remarkable celebration of peace, we aim to foster knowledge, understanding and solidarity, strengthening democracy, human dignity and the bonds between our nations.