An undersea roundabout, fondly known as the “Jellyfish,” resides in the depths of the Atlantic Ocean. Situated within the Eysturoyartunnil tunnel, this vibrant traffic circle connects the Faroe Islands’ two largest islands.
This subsea passage, spanning 6.9 miles, links Streymoy and Eysturoy islands, offering a swift eight-minute drive. At its core lies the world’s initial underwater roundabout, adorned with dynamic colorful lights that have garnered attention online.
The roundabout features a colossal illuminated pillar of natural rock at its center, embellished by Faroese artist Tróndur Patursson. Surrounding this pillar is an 80-meter steel sculpture depicting life-sized figures holding hands, symbolizing unity and collaboration.
Opened on December 19, 2020, the Eysturoyartunnil tunnel network aims to enhance connectivity across the Faroe Islands, reducing travel time between Tórshavn and Klaksvik by half to approximately 35 minutes. This monumental project, costing around €260m (£230m), was undertaken by Eystur- og Sandoyartunlar.
Motorists traversing this deep underwater passage must pay a toll fee of 75 Danish krona (£8.60) each way, automatically billed through license plate scanning. The revenue generated is expected to fund future tunnel initiatives, facilitating broader tourism benefits in the region.
Guðrið Højgaard, director of Visit Faroe Islands, expressed optimism about the tunnel’s potential to boost tourism and local businesses in the northeastern part of the Faroe Islands.