Building a Tunnel for Ocean-Going Vessels
Norway’s coastal authority, Kystverket, has confirmed it is ready to finalize a contract for the world’s first tunnel designed specifically for large ships, located on the Stadlandet peninsula. Construction is scheduled to begin in early 2027. The 1.7-kilometer tunnel, carved through solid rock, will provide a safe passage around the treacherous waters of the Stadhavet Sea, where storms, strong currents, and heavy waves have caused more than 30 maritime fatalities since World War II.
Tunnel Specifications
This ambitious infrastructure project will link the Moldefjord and Kjødepollen in the Vanylvsfjord region. Including its entrance sections, the total length of the tunnel will be 2.2 kilometers. It will stand 50 meters high and 36 meters wide. An estimated 81% of current vessel traffic is expected to use the tunnel, with transit time taking roughly 10 minutes. Cruise liners will be subject to a speed limit of 8 knots.
Excavation will require removing approximately 3 million cubic meters of rock—equivalent to about 750,000 truckloads. The construction method will involve drilling and blasting through gneiss bedrock. Three consortia competed for the contract:
- Norway’s AF Gruppen,
- France’s Eiffage Génie Civil,
- a joint venture between Sweden’s Skanska and Norway’s Vassbakk & Stol.
“The evaluation is complete. After the contract winner is announced, there will be a mandatory waiting period for any appeals, and only then can the contract be signed as planned,” said Harald Inge Johnsen.
A rendering of the world’s first ship tunnel illustrates this groundbreaking project, which promises to transform regional maritime safety. Given the long history of dangerous conditions in the Stadhavet Sea, the tunnel is expected to significantly reduce risks for seafarers.
This ship tunnel project marks a major milestone in Norway’s infrastructure development and maritime safety efforts. Beyond reducing hazards in these perilous waters, it could serve as a blueprint for similar initiatives in other parts of the world facing comparable navigational dangers. The tunnel is also anticipated to boost the local economy by improving shipping conditions and opening up new tourism opportunities.