About Havnekvartalet

First came the harbor, then came the city.
Hammerfest is the gateway to the Barents Sea
– our primary source of livelihood. Now we’ve built a new harbor, with space to build a city on top. For people, and for forward-looking value creation.

Organisation

Havnekvartalet Utbygging AS is a subsidiary of Havnekvartalet Holding AS and the municipal enterprise Hammerfest Havn. All of these companies are formally owned by the Municipality of Hammerfest. The company’s purpose is to develop Havnekvartalet in accordance with the project’s objectives and the governance document, which has political backing.

Formally founded in February 2025, Havnekvartalet Utbygging is launching a long-term transformation of central Hammerfest — a new urban district emerging from the harbor’s piers and vital logistics functions.

History

A Historic Hub and Welcoming Harbor

The site of Havnekvartalet is the former “Steamship Harbor,” where passengers and cargo for the iconic coastal route (Kystruta) have been handled for over 200 years. In 1893, Hurtigruten’s founder, Richard With, departed on DS Vesteraalen’s maiden voyage. The journey ran from Trondheim to Hammerfest, which served as the final stop and turnaround port. Since then, this quay has operated year-round as a point of embarkation for both people and goods. Cruise ships also stop in Hammerfest — the world’s northernmost town — especially during the summer season.

For years, Hammerfest’s bus terminal has sat just beside Havnekvartalet, connecting the city to both local neighborhoods and the wider Finnmark region. The taxi rank is right across the street — making this area a true transportation crossroads for the city.

Isbjørnklubben, a charming local museum, has welcomed visitors here for over 60 years. To join, you must visit Hammerfest in person — earning a lifetime membership and a diploma signed by the mayor. Nearly 300,000 people have already claimed their spot in this exclusive club.

The new Havnekvartalet will carry forward both its logistical role and its tradition of hospitality. Everyone should feel welcome in Hammerfest!

Administration

Åge Alexandersen
Project Director

Katrine Næss
Communications

The Board

Per Åge Hansen

Chair of the Board

Even Liahjell

Board Member

Gunn Kristin
Moen Enge

Board Member

Kjetil Førsvoll

Board Member

Contact us

Do you have questions about Havnekvartalet, want more information, or wish to discuss investment opportunities? We’d love to hear from you! Fill out the form and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.