Earlier this year, Hurtigruten introduced Máret Rávdná Buljo as its Sami culinary ambassador, strengthening the company’s commitment to authentic food culture along the Norwegian coast. Now, guests will soon be able to taste the first dishes she has developed, as Sami-inspired menus are set to debut on Hurtigruten’s all-inclusive Signature voyages.
Buljo – a reindeer herder and lifelong advocate for Sami traditions – has crafted menus that reflect the deep connection between Sami culture, food, and nature. Drawing on ingredients such as reindeer meat, Arctic berries, and wild herbs, she blends traditional knowledge with modern culinary techniques.
“Through food, I want to convey respect for nature and animals and show how our culture has a spiritual and profound connection to what we eat. It’s about more than flavours – it’s about soul, heritage, and connection,” remarks Buljo.
A deep layer of storytelling at sea
The upcoming menus are designed not only to introduce new flavours but also to share the stories and values behind them. Working closely with local suppliers, Buljo brings guests an authentic taste of Sami culture while supporting sustainable food practices along the Norwegian coast.
Øistein Nilsen, Hurtigruten’s culinary director, says anticipation is high for the launch:
“Máret’s expertise and passion for Sami traditions have been invaluable in shaping these menus. Guests can look forward to dining experiences that combine extraordinary flavours with meaningful cultural storytelling.”
Norway’s Coastal Kitchen – rooted in local flavours
Part of Hurtigruten’s Norway’s Coastal Kitchen concept, the collaboration builds on more than a decade of local sourcing and close partnerships with small-scale producers. Today, over 80% of ingredients served onboard come from within a short distance of the sailing route, with menus changing seasonally to ensure freshness and authenticity.
CEO Hedda Felin adds: “Sami culinary traditions are a vital part of Norway’s heritage. By working with Máret, we are not only enhancing our menus but also giving our guests a chance to experience culture and sustainability in a truly memorable way.”
About Máret Rávdná Buljo
Raised in a reindeer herding family, Buljo runs Boazovázzi, a reindeer farm in Lødingen, with her husband. She shares Sami traditions through food, storytelling, and craftsmanship, and in 2019 became the first Sami – and the youngest recipient – of the Ingrid Espelid Hovig Food Culture Award.
Your clients can experience Máret’s new menus on Hurtigruten’s Signature voyages. View the latest offers and itineraries here.
