WOODFJORDEN
A Fiord Rich in Driftwood
BASIC INFORMATION
Woodfjorden is one of the most beautiful fiords in northern Spitsbergen. Stretching 65 kilometers, this fiord beckons exploration with its broad northern entrance and hides many treasures within. It has two lateral branches: Liefdefjord and Bockfjord, along with intriguing bays: Mushamna and Jakobsenbukta. The name of the fiord refers to the abundant driftwood that the sea washes onto its shores.
The surrounding mountains are predominantly formed of red sandstone, hence this color dominates the landscape. Sandstone is susceptible to erosion, resulting in the mountains having gentle peaks and slopes being largely covered with scree. The valleys here invite for trekking.
Whales often enter the fiord, with sightings commonly observed in the upper part of the fiord, while Arctic belugas venture beneath the glaciers deep into the fiord, a sight we have witnessed several times. In the past, Woodfjorden was frequently visited by hunters, hence well-preserved trapper cabins can be found here. One of the more intriguing cabins still standing is Texas Bar, which is worth a visit. The Mushamna Bay, situated on the eastern part of the fiord, often serves as a refuge, resting place, and anchorage for us. Due to its shallows and narrow passage, it can be challenging to enter, but if achieved, it provides good anchorage.
At the end of the fiord, in its western branch Liefdefjord, lies the magnificent Monacobreen glacier. This glacier is large and often calves, shedding large ice blocks into the sea. The sea then carries them all the way to Woodfjorden, where we often spot seals or walruses on floating ice floes.
