Norway has given the green light to the construction of the world’s first ocean ship tunnel, the Stad Ship Tunnel, with an estimated cost of £671 million. The project aims to connect Moldefjord to Kjødepollen on the Stadlandet Peninsula, spanning a distance of 1.7km (1.06 miles). The tunnel, extending to 2.2km (1.4m) with entrance structures into the water, intends to provide a safe passage to vessels avoiding the hazardous Stadhavet Sea, known for its severe weather conditions.
The Norwegian Coastal Administration leads the initiative to address the challenges faced by ships navigating through the stormy waters of Stadhavet Sea. The tunnel, measuring 50 meters high and 36 meters wide, will accommodate large vessels up to 16,000 gross tonnes, allowing smooth traffic flow for fishing boats, ferries, and cruise liners.
After facing budget constraints leading to a temporary halt in the project, the scheme has been revived following a revised budget approval by the government. The administration is currently evaluating contractor bids, with plans for major excavation and blasting to start in the upcoming year. The tunnel is expected to take around 10 minutes to navigate at speeds between five to eight knots, providing a free and safe route for maritime traffic.
Authorities in Norway anticipate that the tunnel will enhance the nation’s shipping industry by ensuring efficient transportation of goods, like salmon from Trøndelag to the continent, without weather-related delays. The completion of the Stad Ship Tunnel is projected by 2032, offering a strategic solution to the challenges posed by the tumultuous Stadhavet Sea.