Galataport, the world’ first underground cruise terminal, equipped with SFT fender solutions

Galataport Istanbul, the fashionable port located at the heart of the Bosphorus, is poised to revitalize the cruise tourism industry in the area.

It is also a global engineering feature; its unique hatch system allows the terminal to be situated underground, making it the world’s very first underground cruise terminal. Spanning an impressive 29,000 square meters, Galataport can accommodate up to three cruise vessels and serve 15,000 passengers per day.

SFT worked in partnership with the contractor to design and supply the fender systems for this new terminal. In total we delivered 17 SPC Cone Fender Systems (1200, G2.8) with close box panels (2300 x 3210 mm). The project scope included the steel panels featuring white UHMW-PE low friction pads, a customization made upon the client’s request.

Another distinctive aspect of this project is the prominent visibility of the fenders. Unlike the industry’s typical practice, they are directly mounted on a pier that sees a high volume of daily foot traffic from city residents and visitors. Additionally, it is noteworthy that the entire process, from the initial order placement for the fenders to their complete installation, took only six months.

We are proud to have contributed to this project with another prime example of our collective dedication to delivering excellent customer service with a customized fender solution that caters to both: safe berthing and client requirements.