Cruise port North Star Bay
Live-Info for port North Star Bay
Port information & tips for North Star Bay
North Star Bay is a fascinating gateway to the high north of Greenland and is located far above the Arctic Circle in one of the most remote regions in the world. The bay impresses with its dramatic Arctic scenery of majestic icebergs and the striking tabletop mountain, Mount Dundas, which is considered an iconic landmark of the region. Highlights include the historical remains of the original Thule settlement Uummannaq as well as the impressive Pituffik Space Force Base, which serves as the northernmost US base. Expedition and cruise ships usually dock at Delong Pier or anchor safely in the bay, giving travelers direct access to this unique wilderness and history-steeped environment thanks to the short distances.
Traveling to North Star Bay in Greenland, primarily known as the site of the highly sensitive Pituffik Space Base (formerly Thule Air Base), is fundamentally different from traveling to a civilian cruise port. Direct public access or travel using conventional means of transport from the DACH region is strictly restricted due to the area's military status and requires special permits. There is no traditional public infrastructure such as roads, train stations, or general parking facilities for cruise guests.
Airplane & Permits
The nearest airport is located at the Pituffik Space Base (THU). However, this serves mainly military purposes and is not a regular civilian airport in the usual sense. Civilian flights are extremely rare and usually operate via Air Greenland from other Greenlandic locations such as Qaanaaq or Savissivik. A special transit or residence permit from the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs is mandatory for entry or transit through Pituffik Space Base, which also applies to the shortest stays and can take up to six weeks to process. Direct international flights from Europe typically connect Greenland via Copenhagen (Denmark) to Nuuk or Kangerlussuaq, from where further domestic flights requiring permits would be necessary.
Special Expedition Cruises
North Star Bay is not a regular destination for conventional cruises. Some specialized expedition cruises explore the remote regions of Northwest Greenland. Should such a voyage include a landing near North Star Bay or Pituffik Space Base, it is always conducted under the strictest conditions and with special permits obtained in advance by the cruise line. Such visits are the exception and do not include independent shore leave in the sense of a tourist port.
No Public Infrastructure
There are no public transport options such as buses or taxis for North Star Bay, nor are rental cars or public parking spaces available. The area is an isolated military base without civilian tourist infrastructure. Movement in the surrounding Northwest Greenland is only possible by plane, helicopter, boat, or dog sled, as there are no roads between settlements. Pre-cruise hotels for cruise guests or Park & Cruise offers do not exist here either. Planning a trip to this region therefore requires extensive preparation and booking through specialized providers.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents will usually include a fixed time slot for check-in, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port and bear in mind that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The following also applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always observe the current announcements and notices on board, as mooring and departure times may change at short notice.
