New Kalsoy ferry awaits political decision

The tender for a new ferry for the Kalsoy route is ready but will not be issued until a political decision is made, Kringvarp Føroya reports. Dánjal Samuelsen, acting director of Strandfaraskip landsins, said the tender material is complete for the vessel, estimated to cost around 180 million kroner.

The project began under the previous government, which prioritised renewing ferries on several routes. Dennis Holm, then minister of transport, prioritised a new ferry for the Kalsoy crossing. However, construction has been delayed, in part due to changes needed at the Syðradali ferry landing. Trial runs by the ferry Teistan on the Kalsoy route last year confirmed that improvements to the landing are necessary.

A public meeting is scheduled for tonight in Klaksvík to discuss a possible submarine tunnel to Kalsoy. Transport minister Jacob Vestergaard is expected to outline the government’s plans, and other speakers will address transport connections, route planning, costs, and local experiences.