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.
Arrival & Departure
Getting around
Highlights & Districts
Useful tips
Returning to the ship
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.
The harbor in North Star Bay is the ideal starting point for discoveries in the Arctic and offers direct access to nature thanks to organized logistics. Movement is coordinated and safe directly from the landing point.
Tender service and Zodiacs
The transfer from the ship to the landing site is carried out with maneuverable Zodiacs or the ship's own tender boats. These small boats bring guests comfortably to the beach and at the same time allow for an impressive view of the icy seascape of the bay.
On foot
The history-steeped surroundings of Dundas and the archaeological sites of the region can be reached in just a few minutes on foot. A relaxed walk leads directly to the remains of the old peat houses and also offers an unobstructed view of the striking Mount Dundas table mountain.
Organized shuttle buses
Special buses are often used for visits to the area of the nearby base, transporting passengers safely across the extensive grounds. These vehicles ensure an uncomplicated transfer to the permitted viewpoints and provide for a comfortable exploration of the surroundings.
To make the most of the limited time in remote North Star Bay, it is recommended to focus on the impressive natural monuments and historically significant sites in the immediate vicinity of the shore.
Mount Dundas
The striking table mountain Mount Dundas towers majestically over the bay and, thanks to its iconic silhouette, offers visitors an incomparable photo opportunity as well as a wide view over the glittering Arctic Ocean.
Ruins of Uummannaq
At the foot of the mountain are the historic remains of the original settlement of Uummannaq, which offer a fascinating insight into the traditional heritage of the Inuit and at the same time serve as a silent testimony to regional history.
Wolstenholme Fjord
The vast expanse of water of the adjacent Wolstenholme Fjord is the ideal place for nature observations of majestic icebergs and, thanks to the untouched Arctic backdrop, offers perfect conditions for an unforgettable exploration of the polar wilderness.
Historic Dundas and Mount Dundas
The historic settlement of Dundas is located directly on North Star Bay and is easily accessible by tender boat, allowing you to immerse yourself directly in the fascinating era of polar exploration. The site impresses with the remains of the original Thule trading station and also offers a spectacular view of the striking, flat summit of Mount Dundas, which is considered one of the most photographed natural wonders of North Greenland. Thanks to the untouched Arctic tundra landscape, you can enjoy complete silence and an atmosphere of pure joy of discovery amidst majestic nature. Ideally, use the first tender boats in the morning to take advantage of the clear Arctic light for impressive panoramic photos, and plan your return to the shore about sixty minutes before the last departure to conclude the excursion relaxed on board.
The way back through the untouched nature of North Star Bay is designed to be particularly safe and comfortable thanks to the professional organization of your expedition team.
Expedition Boats (Zodiacs)
The ship's own Zodiacs act as your direct shuttle and take you back to the ship at short intervals from the shore at the foot of Mount Dundas. Simply follow the instructions of the crew at the landing site to ensure the return journey across the water is quick and convenient.
On Foot Across the Tundra
The paths around the historic settlement of Dundas are unpaved, but easy to find at all times thanks to the clear markings by the expedition team. For a punctual return, simply stay on the designated paths and walk relaxed to the agreed meeting point on the beach while enjoying the view of the bay.
Coordination by the Ship
The expedition team monitors the entire stay ashore and will also inform you in good time about the last departure of the boats. Thanks to the constant radio link between the shore crew and the ship, your punctual return is guaranteed at all times, so you can experience the Arctic backdrop in peace until the very end.
