Thanks for the kind feedback, ET, I'll do some research about channels and see what I can find!
From what I've read, there was a clear 'window' for ships navigating the Isfjorden during the year and Barentsburg was the only port deep enough for Soviet resupply.
I've been thinking and I've a got a few more ideas to add in - so I'll try and get those in this weekend.
Thanks again,
Stew