Right across the North Sea, west of our Norwegian west coast, we find a sailing paradise waiting to be discovered. Since more than 1000 years ago, our Norse ancestors have had close ties to and at times ruled over the archipelagos in the west.
Both Shetland, the Orkney Islands and parts of mainland Scotland have previously been part of the Norwegian kingdom under the Viking Era. So on our way home from Scotland to Norway, on this expedition, we will be looking out for traces of the Norse.
In the wake of the Vikings
This expedition includes a great variety of different experiences. A well-balanced mix of sailing, culture, nature and pub visits. First we explore some of the waters of the west coast of Scotland, before we will sail with the boat into the forest. Through the Caledonian Canal we sail from west to east, right through the Scottish Highlands. At our highest point, we’ll be a full 32 meters above sea level with our expedition boat, Valiente. It may not sound too high, but the tree line here is low and we really get the feeling of sailing through the mountains. Completely unique!
Orkney Islands, the amazing Fair Isle and Shetland
From Inverness, we continue our journey towards the Orkney Islands, where we explore these over 70 islands with exciting rocky coasts and chalk-white sandy beaches. Further north, Fair Isle and Shetland are the next stops along our route. The ocean stretches between these islands are mostly one day legs max. So we have plenty of time to explore the small villages, beaches, islands, pubs and bakeries along the way. We get a good insight into the history and the important coastal traditions of these inaccessible islands. In addition, the historical ties between Norway and these archipelagos are strong. So as modern Vikings from Norway, we are used to being nicely welcomed along the way.
From canal cruise through Scotland to ocean sail from Shetland
This expedition also offers a good chance for us to prove our sailing abilities, and feel the vessel’s sturdiness on the high seas. With a longer ocean crossing of the North Sea from Shetland to Norway. Out here at this time of year we get to feel the forces of nature! And we can expect everything from a gentle breeze to a strong gale on this leg. What is certain, is that you’ll get the feeling of mastery it gives when we as a team sail our expedition ship safely across the sea.
An active holiday with a varied program
This Scotland – Shetland – Norway trip suits you who want a sailing expedition with enough time for land visits, culture and nature along the way. This trip offers a mix of inland sailing, coastal sailing and ocean sailing. In addition to restaurant visits, hiking and sightseeing along the way. This trip is for those who want to experience the Caledonian Canal by sailboat, and for you who dream of visiting the Orkney Islands, Fair Isle and Shetland.
Our expedition boat, Valiente
It’s not just any sailboat we use on this trip, but our 70-foot expedition boat Valiente. She is a very sturdy and comfortable boat built in steel for sailing in arctic waters. The boat is amply equipped and has large outdoor areas, a wheelhouse, and a saloon with a 360-degree view. Here you can see pictures and read more about Valiente.
Be part of the crew on board
From SeilNorge we provide skipper, co-skipper and guide/crew. As a participant with us, you are always involved in all tasks onboard. Everything from standing behind the helm and hoisting sails, to cooking, cleaning and planning the sailing legs. We mostly sail around the clock and divide everyone into watch teams. Where we rotate with 4 hours on and 8 hours off. In addition, we add a few shorter shifts each afternoon, so that the night shifts also rotate between the watch teams throughout the expedition.
A sea crossing expedition with us, is first and foremost a great voyage of discovery. But also an excellent opportunity to learn about sailing and navigation, and not least using a boat as our base for discoveries and experiences on land. We are all adventurers – and we explore together. Are you ready for a real sailing adventure from Scotland via Orkneys and Shetland, to Norway?
Environment & Sustainability
Our northern waters are vulnerable areas under pressure from people and climate change. In SeilNorge we are concerned with taking care of the environment to the greatest extent possible. We believe that small boats with few people and little pollution and waste, are significantly less harmful to the environment, climate and local wildlife than larger vessels and cruise ships. At the places we visit, we try to clean up rubbish and only take home memories and photos. So we avoid leaving any traces behind us.
The lowest possible carbon footprint is important to us. We sail as long as there is wind, and we work purposefully with food, purchasing and waste management. Even if we have to use our engine for propulsion when there is no wind, our trips are among the most sustainable ways to experience our Arctic and North Atlantic waters. Join us on an exotic, unique, sustainable, environmentally friendly and unforgettable holiday!
A fin whale in our wake
There is nothing like surfing down a huge wave with a sturdy ship on the high seas! And perhaps with a fin whale in our wake? As in this film clip from one of our previous trips in the North Atlantic, from Shetland to Norway.
Day 1: Welcome on board in Oban
Day 2: Sail among the Inner Hebrides
Day 3: Fort Williams - the gateway to the Caledonian Canal
Day 4: Searching for the sea monster in Loch Ness
Day 5: Back to the salt water at Inverness
Day 6-8: To the Orkney Islands and exploration on land
Day 9: To Fair Isle
Day 10-12: Shetland
Day 13-14: Across the North Sea towards Norway
Day 15: Bye for now in Bergen
Changes to the program
What is included?
• A trip experience with sailboat – experienced skipper with local knowledge on board
• Co-skipper and crew/guide on board
• All food we eat on board during the trip
• Our Comfort Package, which consists of accommodation on board in a shared double cabin (bunk or double bed) with a ready-made bed (warm and nice duvets and pillows!)
• An environmentally friendly, local, sustainable, unique, exotic and exclusive Norwegian adventure holiday
• A shared experience and friendship with like-minded adventurers from around the world
• A lot of time outdoors – raw and honest nature experiences
• Use of our shared equipment if available: dinghies, kayaks, fishing equipment, etc.
• All boat-related costs such as diesel, propane and harbor fees
• Personal safety equipment; Helly Hansen inflatable lifejacket
• Survival suit and Search and Rescue (SAR) Insurance for everyone on board
• Instruction, advice, guidance and practical training in boating and sailing
What is not included?
• Travel to and from the start/end location
• Optional meals at a cafes/restaurants during the trip
• Entrance to galleries, museums, or other alternative activities that you/we may come up with
• Rental of equipment and/or activities from external operators, ex. kayak, glacier hiking or surfing where possible
• Drinks such as wine, beer or exclusive apple juice and other luxuries (yes, we drink beer and wine on board, bring your own)
• Travel insurance and/or cancellation insurance – (up to you, but recommended!)