Trondheim’s Strategic Upgrades to Cruise Infrastructure Amidst Declining Passenger Numbers

Trondheim, Norway, has been focusing on enhancing its cruise infrastructure, even as it experienced a decline in cruise passenger numbers. In 2024, the port welcomed 170,700 cruise passengers across 93 ship calls, a decrease compared to 108 calls in 2023. Projections for 2025 indicate a slight increase, expecting around 174,000 passengers across 98 calls. A recent study by Menon Economics for the Trondheim Cruise Forum reported that cruise lines invested NOK 27 million (approx. EUR 2.3 million) in the local economy, while passenger spending reached NOK 100 million.

In 2024, Trondheim’s cruise activity included monthly ship calls, four overnight stays, and an unplanned turnaround for Hurtigruten’s vessel, Trollfjord, due to adverse weather. Looking ahead, the World Voyager is slated for a planned turnaround in 2025, marking a return to regular turnaround operations at Trondheim since Pullmantur ceased its activities from 2012 to 2019.

This year, Trondheim has introduced six new shore excursions, such as themed walking tours and winter dogsledding experiences, along with 14 additional excursions available in the nearby islands of Frøya and Hitra. Infrastructure enhancements include a new 12-meter, wheelchair-accessible gangway, adding to an existing range of gangways. Upgrades to the port’s bus parking area aim to improve organization and traffic flow during busy cruise calls.

Trondheim Port has also made strides in its onshore power capabilities. In 2024, the World Explorer connected to the shore power facility at Quay 1, with plans to invest in a frequency transformer to support 60Hz vessels. However, the planned shore power installation at the main cruise quay (Pier 68) is on hold pending a grid commitment of 4.9 MW, with a potential upgrade to 12 MW expected by 2030.

Further, the expansion of Cruise Quay 68 is set to increase its length from 96 meters to 120 meters, allowing better access for larger vessels and improving the structural integrity necessary for accommodating taller ships. A recent geotechnical survey indicated feasibility for a new berth location, and regulatory approvals are underway with investment plans from the port’s board. Local government stakeholders have already been engaged through presentations aboard TUI’s Mein Schiff 7, highlighting sustainability initiatives.

The quay expansion project will cost approximately NOK 40 million (EUR 3.4 million) and will be funded by the port authority.


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