Ny-Ålesund
in Svalbard and Jan Mayen

Ny-Ålesund

Ny-Ålesund is a small village located in the Svalbard archipelago, part of the Norwegian archipelago of Jan Mayen. It is located on the island of Spitsbergen, the largest island in the archipelago. Ny-Ålesund is the northernmost permanently inhabited settlement in the world, with a population of around 30 people.

Ny-Ålesund was first established in 1916 as a mining town. It quickly became a major center for coal mining in the region, and was home to the first coal mine in Svalbard. During World War II, the town was occupied by German forces, who used it as a base for their operations in the region. After the war, the town was redeveloped as a research station.

Today, Ny-Ålesund is an important research center, with several research stations and laboratories located in the town. It is home to the world's northernmost post office, and is the only settlement in Svalbard with a permanent population. The town is also a popular tourist destination, with tourists visiting to take in the unique Arctic scenery and learn about the history of the region.

Ny-Ålesund is also home to a number of important historical events. In 1926, Roald Amundsen and Umberto Nobile launched the airship Norge from Ny-Ålesund, becoming the first people to reach the North Pole by air. In 1968, the Apollo 8 crew conducted a training mission in Ny-Ålesund, making it the first place on Earth to be visited by humans from another world. In 2006, the Global Atmosphere Watch (GAW) was established in Ny-Ålesund, making it the first site in the world dedicated to monitoring the global atmosphere.

Experience Ny-Ålesund with unforgettable activities by our partner GetYourGuide. The offer is also ideal as a special gift idea for family and friends who are planning to visit Ny-Ålesund. Cancellations are possible up to 24h before the start of the activity (unless otherwise stated in the activity description), with a full refund of the booking price.

The climate in Ny-Ålesund

Ny-Ålesund in Svalbard and Jan Mayen experiences a polar climate, with long, cold winters and short, cool summers. In the winter, temperatures average around -10°C, while in the summer they are around 5°C. The area receives very little precipitation, with most of it falling as snow in the winter, and the snow cover can last up to 8 months of the year. The sun is only visible for a few hours a day in the winter, while in the summer the midnight sun gives near 24-hour daylight.

Cruise weather for Ny-Ålesund

Our weather forecast for Ny-Ålesund helps plan your stay according to the weather. For sunny days, pack light and breathable clothes, swimwear, and sunscreen. For winter weather, it's recommended to bring warm clothes, gloves, a hat, sturdy footwear, and a raincoat.

Galery: Ny-Ålesund

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