Longyearbyen : Profile

Location

Longyerbyen is the administrative centre of Svalbard, with a permanent population of about 2,000 people.

Facilities at the main settlement at Longyerbyen have improved greatly recently.

Clearance

The Governor’s office (Syselmannen) deals with all formalities. Visiting yachts must obtain a cruising permit before arrival and make arrangements for special insurance to cover the possible cost of a search and rescue operation. Also compulsory is having a gun to protect the crew from possible attacks by polar bears, of which there have been several in recent years. Those who do not possess a gun can hire one locally. SAR insurance cover is also available locally but is probably much cheaper if it is arranged through one’s own insurance company or bank.

Docking

There is now a pontoon for visiting yachts next to the new wharf (78°13.68’N, 15°36.58’E). A charge is made for the use of the pontoon.

Anchoring is free and one can use the pontoon to leave the dinghy. Nearby is a small building with showers (5 NK), washing machine and dryer.

Related Reports

Proof of Competency for European Countries (01 Mar 2010)

European Regulations Regarding Insurance Cover and AIS Equipment  (13 Sep 2009)

The Norwegian Cruising Guide 2009 Edition Now Available (30 Mar 2009)

VAT and Schengen Visa Clarification  (13 Nov 2008)

Norway: Book Review (01 Nov 2007)

The Norwegian "Intra-Coastal" from the Naze to Risoer (28 Feb 2005)

Useful Tips on Cruising Norway (22 Jan 2004)

Anchoring in Norway Not A Problem (12 Apr 2003)

Cruising the south east coast (20 May 2002)

Related News

Reminder of the Effect of the Schengen Regulations (06 Sep 2009)

Ice packs and little auks: from Greenland to Spitsbergen (11 Oct 2005)