A new 5000 m2 (53820 ft2) terminal spanning 2 floors is set to open at 312 Skarfabakki in Port Reykjavik (Iceland) in 2025, with full functionality expected in 2026.
Construction of the BREEM-certified building is scheduled to start in 2023-Q3.
The primary objective of this project was to design a building that could accommodate various passenger flow and luggage handling requirements in a highly flexible manner. Additionally, the building was envisioned as a visual landmark, offering guests scenic views of Faxa Bay both from inside and outside the terminal, as explained by Sigurdur Jokull Olafsson, the marketing manager of Faxaports.
The terminal's core design incorporates a black box concept, providing a multifunctional open space suitable for turnaround operations. Surrounding this central space, a glass structure will be erected to introduce natural light and ambiance into the building. This versatile terminal will also serve as a venue for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) events during periods when cruise activity is low.
Olafsson emphasized the importance of a welcoming terminal, as it often serves as the first point of entry for travelers to any destination. Faxaports is investing IKr2.8 billion (EUR 24.3 million) in this project due to Reykjavik's growing significance as a key turnaround port in the North Atlantic.
In the current year, 265 cruise calls with 285,000 passengers are scheduled, with approximately 90,000 of them being part of turnaround operations. This represents a significant increase from 2022, which saw 184 calls and 170,770 passengers. Olafsson noted that the future growth in passenger numbers will predominantly come from turnaround operations, as the port has reached its pier capacity.
The terminal will be situated in Sundahofn, about a 3km shuttle bus ride from downtown. Presently, turnaround operations are managed from a small building and tents at a 619-meter-long quay.
In terms of onshore power infrastructure, the port is implementing a three-year plan involving a EUR 20.7 million investment for two high-voltage connections near the new terminal. On September 19th, the Minister of Infrastructure officially inaugurated a low-voltage 1.5 MVA OPS (Onshore Power Supply) for smaller ships at the Old Harbour, with Hurtigruten's Maud being the first vessel to utilize this facility.