Fjord1 has taken over the Lavik–Oppedal ferry route from Norled on 1 September. The busy connection is part of Norway’s E39 corridor across the Sognefjord. Four new electric ferries were due to operate the service, but their delivery has been delayed.
The four 120-metre ferries are currently being completed at Tersan Shipyard in Türkiye. In an official update on the start of the Lavik–Oppedal contract, Fjord1 says the vessels are expected to arrive during the autumn. Each ferry will undergo testing in Norway before entering service. They will have capacity for 120 cars and 399 passengers and will be named Skagastøl, Fanaraaken, Ringstind and Storebjørn.
Until the new vessels are ready, Fjord1 will operate the route with four existing ferries. Oppedal and Stavanger, which already serve the crossing, will remain temporarily and will be joined by Fjord1’s Lifjord and Hjørundfjord. The new ferries will gradually replace these vessels as they become available.
The new vessels are also being prepared for automated operation, including automated crossings and docking. These functions will be introduced gradually after testing, while the ferries will remain crewed. The Lavik–Oppedal route will therefore continue its role in the development of new ferry technology in Norway.
Fjord1Route: Lavik-Oppedal
