Projects
The Skarfabakki development was delivered in two phases, transforming the quay into one of Reykjavík’s key cruise and commercial port facilities.
The first phase, carried out between 1996 and 2007, involved the design and construction of a 450-metre-long quay with a water depth of 12 metres, capable of accommodating vessels of up to 40,000 DWT.
The second phase included the extension of the quay, land reclamation behind the sheet pile wall, ground improvement works, and the completion of all surface infrastructure. The extension, measuring up to 200 metres, was constructed in line with the existing quay and parallel to the shoreline. Upon completion, the expanded facility enabled two 300-metre-long cruise ships to berth simultaneously, significantly increasing the port’s capacity and operational flexibility.
Verkís provided a comprehensive range of engineering and advisory services, including design, consultancy, tender documentation, geotechnical investigations, geotechnical engineering, cost analysis, land reclamation design, environmental impact assessment, and structural engineering.
The project strengthened Reykjavík’s position as a major cruise destination while enhancing the long-term capacity and functionality of the city’s harbour infrastructure.
Total quay length
Water depth
Vessel capacity
Growing cruise tourism and increasing commercial port activity required Reykjavík Port to expand the capacity and functionality of Skarfabakki. The challenge was to develop a modern quay capable of accommodating larger vessels while providing resilient infrastructure to support future growth.
Verkís delivered multidisciplinary engineering and consultancy services throughout both phases of the project, including geotechnical investigations, structural and geotechnical engineering, land reclamation design, environmental impact assessment, cost analysis and tender documentation. The project included the design and construction of a new quay, its subsequent extension and the supporting infrastructure required for long-term port operations.
The completed expansion transformed Skarfabakki into one of Reykjavík’s primary cruise and commercial port facilities. The upgraded quay can accommodate two 300-metre-long cruise ships simultaneously, significantly increasing operational capacity, improving port efficiency and reinforcing Reykjavík’s position as a leading North Atlantic cruise destination.
Technical information
Location:
Sundahöfn port, Reykjavík
Size:
650 m
Project period:
1996 – 2007 / 2010 – 2014
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