In June 2018, a collaboration agreement was established between Stavanger Sentrum AS through CID, Stavangerregionens Havn IKS, Kolumbus AS, Rogaland Fylkeskommune, and Nordic Edge AS to conduct a thorough examination of the possibility of introducing a water bus in the harbor area of downtown Stavanger.

The purpose of this project was to introduce an environmentally friendly and attractive means of transportation that would effectively connect the city center with the nearby neighborhoods. In addition to improving access to the city center, the goal was to strengthen the connections between Bjergsted and Holmen, increase pedestrian traffic along the western harbor, and through the city's central area. This would also contribute to enhancing the public transportation hub at Fiskepiren. Thus, a water bus could play a crucial role in implementing the strategies outlined in the City Center Plan.

As an introduction to a feasibility analysis, a survey of potential customer bases was conducted, including population, workplaces, and public services. The analysis was limited to the harbor area northwest of Bybroen and extended into the fjord to Kalhammervigå/Byfjordparken and Buøy up to Bangavågen. It also included current travel patterns and choices between relevant stops. At the same time, a survey of the waterways was conducted, and potential route paths were outlined. Travel times were calculated at speeds of 8 and 10 knots.

Next, the customer potential for three alternative water bus routes was examined to determine which of the alternatives had the greatest appeal. This task was divided into two parts:

• Survey of travel patterns.

• Market analysis.

The project continued with an update of the customer base, including development areas, adjustments to operating estimates, and more concrete technical solutions related to stops. Unfortunately, further work was put on hold due to changes in the Department of Transportation in the County Council and the impact of the pandemic.

Efforts have been made to get the project back on track, but it has proven to be challenging. To lay the foundation for a political proposal to be presented by the administration, Kolumbus has commissioned a needs analysis for sea-based mobility that will cover both Stavanger, Haugesund, and Eigersund.