Cargo traffic continues to operate normally alongside construction work

“Cargo traffic is an important division of business for the Port of Turku and an aspect that has been taken into account since the initial planning of the Ferry Terminal Turku project. The aim is to ensure the integrity of the port’s most important service promise — fast and efficient passage — throughout the duration of the project. Vessel and port services operate 24 hours a day and the port is always open for cargo delivery and pick-up, without any queuing. We actively provide up-to-date information on the progress of the project and discuss any changes in advance with our customers”, says Erik Söderholm, Managing Director of the Port of Turku.

Efficient and fast shipping connections and more on the horizon

The Port of Turku’s cargo traffic focuses on unit and project-based transports, which are currently operated by four shipping companies. In addition to the Nordic countries, the port also has regular shipping connections to the North Sea and the UK, among others.

“Despite the instability of the world situation, the volumes of cargo traffic through the port of Turku have remained at a satisfactory level. One proof of demand is the fact that, for example, Wallenius Sol shipping company has decided to add a new, larger vessel to its Turku line. However, the capacity of the port of Turku would allow for an even larger number of vessels than it is currently handling, which is why we have long been in negotiations on the opening of new lines from Turku, particularly in the direction of Germany and Poland. As part of the negotiations with shipping companies, we have also expressed our readiness to invest in any needs required by the new lines, such as new piers or quays.”

We believe that Turku has everything it takes to provide the facilities for shipping companies to conduct profitable business in the Baltic Sea region. – Erik Söderholm

Ferry Terminal Turku will also benefit cargo traffic

“The completion of Ferry Terminal Turku will also mean significant traffic benefits for HGV traffic”, says Antti Pekanheimo, Chief Operating Officer for the Port of Turku.

“A new connection will open up to port traffic, which will make the transition to the general traffic system fast and simple. Vehicles entering and exiting ships and the port field will be guided to use the new Vientikatu lane, which leads to the port from the direction of Pahaniemi Bridge. HGV traffic arriving from the port can be connected smoothly via the acceleration lane directly to Suikkilantie road and from there to the highway network. The new connection will be completed simultaneously with the terminal at the end of 2026. In addition to road traffic, the railway route to the port will be renewed, but the old track will continue to be in service until the new one is completed sometime around 2028.”

In connection with the reforms, the gate area of the West Harbour will also be renewed. A new digital traffic control and monitoring system will be introduced, which will accelerate and facilitate the transition to and from the port area and enhance safety. The aim is for the new gate zone to be completed by the time the terminal is fully operational.

Text: Kari Ahonen
Photos: Markku Koivumäki & Janne Stenroos