
Trondheim, Norway: Boosting Cruise Infrastructure in Response to Passenger Decline
Trondheim, Norway, has seen a decline in cruise passenger numbers, welcoming 170,700 visitors through 93 calls in 2024, down from 108 calls the previous year. Projections for 2025 indicate a slight increase to 174,000 passengers across 98 calls. A recent study by Menon Economics for the Trondheim Cruise Forum illustrated that cruise lines reportedly contributed NOK 27 million (EUR 2.3 million), while passengers spent NOK 100 million within the local economy in 2023.
Despite the decline in calls, Trondheim experienced consistent cruise activity last year, including four overnight stays and a noteworthy unscheduled turnaround of the Hurtigruten ship, Trollfjord, due to poor weather conditions. The port is preparing for the World Voyager to make a planned turnaround in 2025, the first in Trondheim since Pullmantur’s regular turnarounds from 2012 to 2019.
New attractions for cruise passengers will include six unique shore excursions, featuring kennel visits, themed walking tours, and dogsledding in winter. The islands of Froya and Hitra will offer an additional 14 excursions for visitors.
To enhance cruise operations, infrastructure upgrades are in progress. This includes a new, wheelchair-accessible 12-meter gangway, which will complement existing options ranging from 6 to 12 meters. The port’s bus parking area is also being improved for better traffic management.
Trondheim Port is upgrading its onshore power capabilities, with the World Explorer connecting to low-voltage shore power three times at Quay 1, Pier 1 in 2024. Plans are underway to install shore power at the main cruise quay, Pier 68, pending a 4.9 MW grid commitment, which may increase to 12 MW by 2030. This project is estimated to be completed by the end of 2026.
Additionally, the port will extend Cruise Quay 68 from 96 meters to 120 meters to accommodate larger vessels and improve shore power connections. A recent geotechnical survey confirmed the viability of a new berth location, and the port is pursuing regulatory approvals and investment commitments. Local stakeholders have been engaged through presentations onboard TUI’s Mein Schiff 7, where sustainability initiatives were discussed.
The total cost for the quay expansion project is projected to be NOK 40 million (EUR 3.4 million), funded by the port authority.
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