AF Gruppen Awarded Contract to Build World’s First Full-Scale Ship Tunnel in Norway
AF Gruppen has secured the contract from the Norwegian Coastal Administration to engineer and construct the groundbreaking Stad Ship Tunnel, a historic infrastructure project that will create the world’s first full-scale tunnel designed specifically for maritime traffic. The turnkey contract has an estimated value of NOK 5.6 billion, excluding VAT.
The project represents a major milestone in Norwegian transport infrastructure and is expected to improve safety, reliability, and efficiency for vessels navigating one of the country’s most challenging coastal areas. The Stad Ship Tunnel will be located through the Stadlandet peninsula in Vestland County, allowing ships to avoid the exposed and often dangerous waters around the Stad coast.
Under the contract, AF Gruppen will be responsible for delivering a fully operational ship tunnel equipped with all required technical systems and maritime infrastructure. The tunnel will extend approximately 1,700 metres through the mountains, creating a protected passage for vessels traveling along the Norwegian coast.
Unlike traditional road or railway tunnels, the Stad Ship Tunnel is specifically designed for large vessels. The tunnel’s cross-section will be approximately 20 times larger than that of a standard road tunnel, making it one of the most complex tunneling projects ever undertaken in Norway. Once completed, the facility will allow vessels up to the size of Kystruten and Hurtigruten ships to safely pass through the area.
The project aims to address longstanding challenges associated with maritime transport around Stadlandet, where strong currents, harsh weather conditions, and unpredictable sea conditions have historically created risks for commercial and passenger vessels. By providing a sheltered route, the tunnel will improve maritime safety while supporting more reliable coastal transportation.
AF Gruppen will carry out the project together with engineering consultant Norconsult. The two companies played a key role during the tender phase, developing the project in close cooperation with the Norwegian Coastal Administration. This early collaboration helped establish a strong foundation for the final design and construction approach.
Construction activities are scheduled to begin in early 2027, with the project expected to take approximately five years to complete. During the construction period, extensive excavation, engineering, and installation work will be carried out to create the tunnel structure and prepare it for safe maritime operations.
Amund Tøftum, CEO of AF Gruppen, highlighted the importance and uniqueness of the project.
“It is rare for us, as a design and build contractor, to have the opportunity to take on such a unique infrastructure project, attracting significant local, national and international interest. We appreciate the trust placed in us by the Norwegian Coastal Administration and look forward to a strong collaboration in delivering this project,” said Tøftum.
The Stad Ship Tunnel is expected to become a landmark project not only for Norway but also internationally, demonstrating new possibilities in maritime infrastructure development. The project combines advanced engineering, sustainable transport planning, and improved coastal connectivity.
The tunnel is also expected to generate long-term benefits for regional communities by supporting tourism, strengthening coastal industries, and improving transportation links along Norway’s western coastline. Safer and more predictable sea routes could provide advantages for shipping operators, local businesses, and passengers traveling through the region.
For AF Gruppen, the contract strengthens the company’s position as a leading contractor in complex infrastructure projects. The company has extensive experience delivering large-scale construction, civil engineering, and environmental projects across Norway and other markets.
The Stad Ship Tunnel reflects Norway’s continued investment in innovative infrastructure solutions designed to meet future transportation needs. Once completed, it will stand as a unique example of engineering achievement, offering a safer alternative route for maritime traffic and creating a new chapter in the development of global ship tunnel technology.
Source Link:https://www.afgruppen.com/
