The port of Arendal is taking a significant step towards modern transport solutions with a new direct ferry route between Eydehavn and Eemshaven in the Netherlands, which will commence in 2027. The initiative aims to strengthen the regional economy, create new jobs, and provide a more sustainable transport option for cargo and passengers.
The new route, developed in collaboration with Njordic Ferries B.V., will offer daily departures between Southern Norway and Eemshaven in the Netherlands. With an 18-hour crossing time, the service will provide logistics and tourism operators with an efficient connection to the European market while avoiding congestion in Denmark and northern Germany.
The Port of Arendal is our preferred port in southern Norway. It is an ideal location on the southern coast. We are here to stay and will operate out of Arendal long-term.
Edwin van der Stam is the co-founder and chairman of Njordic Ferries
The port of Arendal has already initiated substantial investments to support the new route. A new Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) ramp is under construction and will be completed by 2025. This infrastructure will enhance the port’s capacity to efficiently handle rolling cargo and passenger transport.
A Strategic Investment for Business and Sustainability
Eemshaven in the Netherlands has been chosen as the destination port due to its strategic location and higher axle weight limits compared to Germany, which makes it economically beneficial for freight transport.
Furthermore, the route aligns with Norway’s national ambitions to shift more transport from roads to sea and rail. Reports from the Green Shipping Program and others highlight that direct shipping connections between Southern Norway and Europe can significantly reduce emissions while improving the competitiveness of Norwegian businesses.
New Infrastructure for Growth and Development
To ensure smooth transport operations, Arendal Port is developing new facilities at Eydehavn, including parking areas, customs services, and other necessary infrastructure. Additionally, plans for a new road connection between the port and the E18 highway will improve accessibility and strengthen Eydehavn as a logistics hub.
Photo: Eyde Material Park
The Eydehavn area is also becoming one of Norway’s largest industrial development zones. The Eyde Energy Park and Eyde Material Park, covering 3,400 hectares, will provide favorable conditions for energy-intensive and logistics-based industries, with access to a significant power supply from 2027.
Increased Economic Activity and Employment
The new ferry route is expected to enhance transport efficiency and generate economic benefits for the region. Arendal Port sees this development as a key tool for strengthening the local business environment and attracting new companies. Both export and import companies, as well as tourism operators, stand to gain from this new connection.
Njordic Ferries is in the final stages of securing financing for vessels, crew, and technical operations. Independent evaluations have already provided positive assessments of the business plan.
With a reliable and environmentally friendly transport corridor between Southern Norway and Europe, the port of Arendal and Njordic Ferries makes an important contribution to a more sustainable and competitive future. The project represents a significant step forward for the region’s transport infrastructure—offering a green, efficient, and future-oriented solution for cargo and passenger transport.