Cruise port Trygghamna
Live-Info for port Trygghamna
Port information & tips for Trygghamna
Trygghamna is a fascinating natural jewel on the northern side of Isfjorden on Spitsbergen and embodies the untouched wilderness of the Arctic in its purest form. The sheltered bay impresses with its dramatic mountain scenery and a majestic atmosphere that makes explorers' hearts beat faster thanks to the vast tundra landscapes. Outstanding sights include the imposing bird cliff Alkhornet with its rich wildlife as well as the historical remains of former whaling stations from the 17th century. As there is no conventional pier, ships use the protected anchorage for landings by Zodiac directly on the flat natural beach of the bay. From this landing point, travelers have direct access to the wilderness and can also experience the spectacular Arctic flora and fauna up close without any urban hustle and bustle.
Arrival & Departure
Getting around
Highlights & Districts
Useful tips
Returning to the ship
Trygghamna is a remote bay on Spitsbergen and is primarily visited as part of expedition cruises, most of which begin in Longyearbyen, the main settlement of Spitsbergen, or make a stopover there. Direct travel by car or train is not possible due to Spitsbergen's geographical location, as there are no road or rail connections to the Norwegian mainland.
Airplane
Travel from the DACH region is exclusively by plane to Svalbard Airport (LYR) near Longyearbyen. Direct flights to Longyearbyen are offered by SAS and Norwegian Air Shuttle, primarily from Oslo (OSL) and Tromsø (TOS). The flight time from Oslo is about three hours, and from Tromsø around 1.5 hours. As Spitsbergen is outside the Schengen Area, a valid passport or national ID card is required for entry, with checks taking place in Oslo or Tromsø.
Transfer & Shuttle
Svalbard Airport (LYR) is located only about 5 kilometers northwest of Longyearbyen. For transfers to hotels or the port in Longyearbyen, airport buses (Flybussen) are available and serve most hotels. A one-way trip costs about 100 to 110 NOK and takes around 9 to 10 minutes. Alternatively, taxis are available, which cost about 200 to 250 NOK for the short distance and take 5 to 10 minutes. Walking from the airport to Longyearbyen is not recommended due to the danger of polar bears. The main cruise pier, Bykaia, is about 1.5 to 2 kilometers from the center of Longyearbyen, with many cruise lines offering shuttle services.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the long journey and possible flight delays, it is recommended to arrive in Longyearbyen at least one day before your scheduled embarkation. Longyearbyen offers a selection of hotels for every taste, including the Radisson Blu Polar Hotel, Funken Lodge, or Basecamp Hotel. An overnight stay in advance allows for a relaxed start to your Arctic adventure and provides the opportunity to explore the world's northernmost settlement.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents will usually include a fixed time slot for check-in, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port accordingly and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time—depending on the cruise line and destination—is generally scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as mooring and departure times may change at short notice.
In the picturesque bay of Trygghamna on Spitsbergen, you will experience the untouched Arctic immediately after leaving your ship. Access to the shore is convenient and safe using the ship's own expedition boats.
Zodiacs (Expedition Inflatable Boats)
Since there is no fixed pier in this natural bay, agile Zodiacs bring you directly from the ship to the beach. These flexible boats allow for an uncomplicated landing and also offer excellent opportunities for nature observations close to the coast.
On Foot
Once you have arrived at the shore, you can explore the Arctic tundra and the fascinating landscape on guided hikes. The paths lead you through the vast nature and, thanks to the location at the foot of the striking mountain Alkhornet, offer spectacular views of the local wildlife.
Ship's Tenders
Regular transfer trips between the anchored ship and the landing point ensure a smooth process for your shore excursion. This service is perfectly timed with the expedition schedule and provides you with comfortable access to the sights of this wilderness.
To experience the untouched wilderness of Trygghamna at its best, a combination of wildlife viewing on the striking cliff faces and a hike through the historic tundra landscape of this protected bay is recommended.
Alkhornet
The majestic bird cliff towers imposingly over the bay and, thanks to its fertile slopes, offers ideal conditions for admiring breeding seabirds as well as Arctic foxes and grazing reindeer at close range in their natural habitat.
Historic Pomor Settlement
The remains of the Russian hunting sites directly on the shore provide a fascinating insight into early Arctic exploration and can also be perfectly explored during a stroll along the flat coastal sections.
Daunpynten
This picturesque headland at the southern end of the bay impresses with its wide, moss-covered plain and is simultaneously the perfect place to let your gaze wander over the Isfjorden and enjoy the Arctic silence to the fullest.
Alkhornet & Trygghamna Tundra
With the striking table mountain Alkhornet, the bay of Trygghamna offers a spectacular natural experience that is easily accessible across the soft tundra after landing by Zodiac, allowing for fascinating insights into the Arctic flora and fauna. Thanks to the bay's sheltered location, Arctic foxes and reindeer can often be observed here, while the remains of historic whaling stations and Pomor settlements offer an impressive journey back through the history of Spitsbergen. The backdrop is characterized by thousands of seabirds, which creates a unique atmosphere and makes the location perfect for nature photography. Ideally, start your shore excursion with the first landing group in the morning to fully enjoy the untouched silence of the wilderness, and return to the meeting point early so that you can still enjoy the view of the glacier landscape in a relaxed manner from the ship's deck.
The return journey from hikes around the striking bird cliff Alkhornet to your ship's anchorage is perfectly organized and safely designed, thanks to the expedition teams.
Expedition Zodiacs
The ship's own Zodiac inflatable boats function as a direct shuttle service, taking you comfortably from the flat pebble beach back to your cruise ship's gangway. Departures occur at short intervals and are coordinated on shore by the crew, so you can board easily and without waiting times.
Guided Return Path
In the untouched wilderness of Trygghamna, you will always walk back directly to the landing site within the marked safety zone or accompanied by guides. This escorted return journey guarantees your safety thanks to the constant polar bear watch and leads you along level paths through the tundra back to the shore.
Meeting Point on the Beach
The central meeting point for the return is clearly visible at the original landing site below the bird cliff. Here, you will put on your life jackets and begin the short trip across the water under staff supervision, while also being able to relax and enjoy the impressive views of the bay's glaciers.
