Norsk

Hearing: Proposed Restrictions for Passenger Vessels over 150 meters along the Norwegian Coast

The Norwegian Coastal Administration (NCA) has proposed new regulations to enhance maritime safety for passenger vessels over 150 meters in length. These restrictions would apply in six areas along the Norwegian coast that are known for challenging sea and weather conditions, especially during winter and shoulder seasons. Feedback is invited until April 15, 2025.

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Background

The proposal is based on recommendations from the Official Norwegian Report NOU 2022:1 and a study conducted by DNV, commissioned by the NCA, which analysed risks associated with cruise traffic outside the summer season. Events such as the Viking Sky incident in 2019 highlighted the dangers of extreme weather and the need for stricter regulations.

Why a 150-meter length requirement?

The 150-meter threshold was chosen for its clarity and practicality. Vessel length is a fixed and easily verified parameter that aligns with existing maritime practices. While factors like passenger capacity were considered, length was deemed more predictable and effective for targeting vessels that pose higher safety challenges.

Where Will the Restrictions Apply?

The affected areas are:

Stadt (Kråkenes Fyr station)
Hustadvika (Ona II station)
Folda (Kya Fyr station)
Fugløykalven (Torsvåg Fyr station) 
Sørøya (Hasvik Airport station)
Honningsvåg (Fruholmen station)

Conditions for Enforcing the Restrictions

Restrictions will be triggered when wind gusts over 20 m/s are forecasted by designated meteorological stations. Strong winds at this level significantly increase the risk of accidents due to high waves and reduced vessel control. At 20 m/s, wind forces can cause severe rolling and pitching, which are known to contribute to technical failures and make emergency and rescue operations more challenging.

Using wind gusts, rather than average wind speeds, ensures a more accurate reflection of real-time conditions likely to affect vessel stability and safety. Gust data are readily available from  yr.no, ensuring that vessel operators have clear information for voyage planning.

How will it work?

Vessel operators must plan their voyages using weather data from yr.no and avoid entering restricted zones at strong winds.

These regulations focus on preventive safety and will not penalize vessels already in restricted zones if unexpected weather arises. The NCA’s Vessel Traffic Service in Vardø will oversee compliance. All vessels affected will also require a pilot onboard during the voyage.

Implementation date

The proposed regulations are set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Learn More

For an overview of the restricted areas, including maps, visit Kystinfo – Winter Cruise.

The full Norwegian hearing document is available here, providing a comprehensive view of the proposal and its implications.

Official Norwegian Report NOU 2022:1 “Cruise traffic in Norwegian waters and adjacent sea areas” is found here.   

For inquiries, contact: (see below) 

Hearing statement

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