Krossfjorden

Krossfjorden is a fjord on the western coast of Spitzbergen that stretches for dozens of kilometers and branches into smaller fjords like Lilliehöökfjorden and Möllerfjorden. The waterway is framed by steep mountain walls and contains numerous glaciers that flow down toward the water.

The area was first documented by English explorer Jonas Poole in 1610, who later established a whaling station on its shore. This early contact with European whalers shaped the fjord's history and led to lasting human presence in the region.

The name comes from a wooden cross that early whalers placed at its entrance to mark the beginning of maritime activities in this region. This symbol shaped how people thought about this remote Arctic waterway and its connection to seafaring traditions.

Summer is the best time to explore when daylight extends for many hours and ice conditions are more manageable. Specialized Arctic vessels are needed since navigation here requires experience and proper equipment designed for these waters.

During summer months, the fjord's many glaciers release icebergs into the water, and these move and shift continuously to reshape the landscape. This seasonal transformation means the place looks quite different depending on when you visit.