Balsfjordstraumen

Balsfjordstraumen is a strait in Norway that is located in the municipality of Nordkjosbotn and Balsfjord in the county of Troms og Finnmark. It is part of the Balsfjord, a large and previously glacial fjord system on the Norwegian mainland. The strait connects the fjord Balsfjord with the Norwegian Sea.

The Balsfjordstraumen is a tidal current that is strong and significant. It is stronger than most Norwegian tidal currents and is one of the strongest in the country. The strait's currents are caused by the difference in sea level between the Norwegian Sea and the Balsfjord.

Mariners navigate the Balsfjordstraumen with caution due to its strong and changing currents. Depth soundings in the strait are often wide and varied. The Norwegian Meteorological Institute has reported currents as high as 7-8 knots.

Boats navigate the Balsfjordstraumen slowly as they approach the entrance from the Norwegian Sea. Approximately 1 nautical mile inbound from the entrance to Balsfjordstraumen signals are in place. A small sign displays the signal. The Aids to navigation in this location are the “L7 + LT 268° EL 30°”, “L1 LT 267° EL – 15°”, and “S7 LT 312° EL – 12°” beacons.

Nautical insurers, harbormasters, and cargo operators are aware of the entrances to the strait. Those vessels operating in the Balsfjord area must exercise extreme caution when approaching the entrance from the Norwegian Sea to and from the Balsfjord.