Construction work at the new pier at Cruise Destination Skjolden-Sognefjord (CDSS) is ahead of schedule and is likely to be completed by the year end. Originally planned to take ships up to 340m in length, it has now been lengthened and reinforced to take ships of any size, says Iren Vatne, port director.
About NOK60m (E7.2m) was invested in the cruise-only pier which is 130m long but has outside mooring points. A total of NOK150m (E17.9m) has been invested in the project which includes cabins along the fjord and a marina. About 20 buses will be able to park at one time.
A grand opening is planned for May 2010. The port received 13 calls this year and is in line to receive the same again in 2010.
CDSS's goal is to sustain the geographical character of Skjolden and the surrounding area. It is the innermost port in Norway at the head of the longest fjord and at the foot of Norway's highest mountains.
The centre of Skjolden has been renovated in an authentic manner. The entire community has been involved in the planning process and is involved on cruise call days. Local guides include retired schoolteachers. The local band greets the ships and a market is set up with local farmers and artists selling their products.
