On this trip you will take a historical and cultural journey to Coles Bay (Colesbukta), a 4.5 km wide bay on the south side of Isfjorden. Here you can find traces that go back to the time of Soviet coal mining in the 1900s. Together with Grumant, Coles Bay was one of the largest mining towns on Svalbard during the Cold War. At the end of the 1950s, more than 1,000 people had their homes and workplaces here. Coles Bay also served as a shipping port for the coal mines in Grumant, which we also will pass on our way.

On this trip you will plan to go ashore in Coles Bay, where you will walk around to explore the old buildings and look for traces of a bygone era. There are 10-12 larger buildings in the area and several ruins. The old railway line that once linked Coles Bay with Grumant can be found towards northwest and is accessible for hikers. It is clearly visible from the fjord as well, with its characteristic wooden superstructure. The area also has a rich flora, including cloudberries which otherwise is extremely rare on Svalbard.

These day safaris explore Isfjord in a small, open Polarcirkel boat (RIB). The boats are 28 foot long and you may experience some bumpy sea and sea spray. The safaris are not recommended for people with back problems or pregnant women. The routes shown here may change slightly depending on the weather. We recommend that you dress warmly with woollen layers, gloves, waterproof headwear and waterproof mountain boots/wellies.