Natural emergency harbours in Spitsbergen

The Norwegian coastal authorities have been out on a field trip around Spitsbergen’s coasts to evaluate locations where ships might seek shelter in case of emergency. Representatives of the Norwegian Polar Institute, the ministry of the environment, the governor and the Norwegian research institute on marine technology (MARINTEK) were on board during the field cruise.

On the west coast, the best sites known so far are in Magdalenefjord, Trygghamna and Hornsund. The experts and officials involved want to discuss further sites and publish their recommendations within 2010. The need for more emergency shelter sites is seen because of increased ship traffic in Svalbard waters.

Quelle: Svalbardposten