FLAM

• NOFLA
• Latitude: 60.864
• Longitude: 7.12369
• Norwegian Coast
• Port in Norway

Location: Aurland Vestland 5743 Norway

Phone number: +47 57 63 23 00

Web-site: https://www.visitflam.com/

Flåm is a small village and popular tourist destination in Norway, situated in the Aurlandsfjord, which is an arm of the Sognefjord, the longest and deepest fjord in Norway. The location offers stunning natural beauty, characterized by steep mountains, cascading waterfalls, and deep fjords.

Here's a detailed description and specifications of the port of Flåm:

Port Description

1. Location and Geography

   • Coordinates: Approx. 60°51′N 7°7′E
   • Region: Western Norway, in the county of Vestland.
   • Accessibility: Located deep within the Aurlandsfjord, it is accessible by sea, road, and rail.

2. Main Attractions

   • Flåmsbana Railway: One of the steepest railways in the world, offering breathtaking views of mountains and waterfalls.
   • Naeroyfjord: A UNESCO World Heritage site nearby, known for its stunning, narrow passages.
   • Stegastein Viewpoint: Offering panoramic views of the fjords.

Port Specifications

1. Berthing Facilities

   • Quay Length: The main quay is around 120 meters in length.
   • Berths: Accommodates small to medium-sized cruise ships and various smaller vessels.
   • Depth: Approximately 12-15 meters (39-49 feet), suitable for medium-draft vessels.

2. Port Operations

   • Type of Port: Primarily a cruise port but also serves local ferries and tour boats.
   • Passenger Terminal: Available facilities for cruise passengers including a tourist information centre, shops, and eateries.
   • Cargo Handling: Limited, primarily used for tourism rather than commercial shipping.

3. Navigation

   • Approach: Requires navigation through the Aurlandsfjord, which is well-charted but requires careful maneuvering due to narrow passages.
   • Pilotage: Compulsory for larger ships, providing local expertise for safe navigation.
   • Anchorage: Vessels that cannot dock may anchor nearby, and tenders are used to transport passengers to shore.

4. Support Services

   • Bunkering: Limited facilities; larger bunkering operations are often conducted at other ports.
   • Repairs and Maintenance: Basic services, extensive repairs are usually undertaken at larger ports.
   • Waste Disposal: Facilities available for waste disposal and recycling, in line with Norway's environmental regulations.

Port Infrastructure

1. Transport Links:

   • Rail: The Flåmsbana railway connects Flåm to Myrdal, where passengers can join the Bergen Line.
   • Road: Accessible via the E16 highway connecting to major cities like Oslo and Bergen.
   • Ferries: Regular ferry services to nearby fjords and coastal communities.

2. Accommodation and Amenities

   • Hotels: Various options including historic hotels like the Fretheim Hotel.
   • Restaurants and Cafes: A selection of eateries offering local cuisine.
   • Shops: Souvenir shops and stores selling local crafts and products.

3. Tourist Services

   • Tours: Guided tours available for hiking, biking, fjord cruises, and cultural experiences.
   • Information Center: Available to assist visitors with planning their stay.

Environmental and Safety Protocols

1. Regulations: Complies with stringent Norwegian regulations for environmental protection, particularly regarding fjord ecosystems.
2. Safety Measures: Robust safety protocols in place for port operations and cruise passenger handling.
3. Sustainability Efforts: Initiatives for reducing carbon footprints, waste management, and preserving natural surroundings.

Conclusion

The port of Flåm is a well-equipped, picturesque destination that serves as a gateway to some of Norway's most spectacular fjords and landscapes. With its combination of natural beauty, efficient infrastructure, and tourist-friendly facilities, it is a highly favored stop for cruise lines and individual travelers exploring Norway's majestic fjord region.