Offshore Sailing from Svalbard to Rotterdam

Your Sailing Area

Svalbard to Rotterdam

High in the Arctic circle sits the the world’s most northernmost town, sitting halfway between mainland Norway and the North Pole. Svalbard is one of Europe’s last great wildernesses, often referred to as the “land of the midnight sun” when from mid-May to late September, the archipelago sits in 24hour daylight.

Ocean passages can bring conditions fit for only the boldest adventurers seeking the ultimate challenge. This hands-on sailing adventure is perfect for those wanting to experience life on a traditionally rigged tall ship and tuck some sea miles under their belt. We recommend some previous experience of time on the water and some time spent on a boat. Whether that’s a taster sailing weekend, dinghy sailing club or weekends on your grandparents boat, once we have left port, there is no turning back!

During these 2 weeks you will be learning how to sail the beautiful Noorderlicht. You will be part of our watch system and together with our highly skilled crew you will bring the home. As you can imagine this trip is highly dependant on the weather. If the wind is in our favour we go in a straight line south. If not, we take a route along the Norwegian coast and through the fjords. So in both situations it will be a voyage that you will remember for the rest of your life!

Sailing by the stars

Far from land, miles into the open ocean, you’ll see the night sky as you have never seen it before. The stars light the sky as we sail away from any man-made light pollution creating a truly spectacular sight. Although each boat certainly has all the modern GPS equipment, there will likely be the chance to try your hand at celestial navigation, using the stars to plot your position and guide your route! An age old skill used by sailing ancestors of years gone-by.

Weather

Part of the beauty of an ocean-going adventure is experiencing all the elements. From wind, rain and sun, we will certainly see them all. Whatever comes our way, the crew will use weather radar technology to plan our route as best they can to ensure we cover the most miles as safely as possible. Expect strong winds and big waves, perfect sailing to glassy seas with not a breath of wind and everything in-between.

All voyages for Noorderlicht

Noorderlicht

Guest berths: 20 Rig: Schooner

Originally built in 1910, Noorderlicht has a colourful history and has spent much of her life sailing the Baltic Sea and exploring Svalbard. With various refits, hull extensions and rigging reconfigurations, she now sails as a graceful two-masted schooner taking guests on bucket-list sailing holidays in the Arctic.

With comfortable accommodation for up to 20 guests in private twin cabins, Noorderlicht offers guests whale watching and wildlife expeditions exploring the Arctic waters of Northern Norway & Svalbard. Her size and draft mean she can reach some of the most remote areas of Svalbard so she is a great way to discover the hidden gems that this breathtaking part of the world has to offer.

Low impact and environmental travel go hand-in-hand with Noorderlicht’s ethos. Her ability to set sail and explore this part of the world is the best way enjoy the beautiful unspoiled nature.

In the early 90’s she was refitted to become a charter vessel and so her accommodation below decks was given careful consideration. She has ten comfortable twin cabins that all share four bathrooms. The galley and downstairs seating area sits in the middle of the ship with another seating area and bar in the deck-house.

Noorderlicht is sailed by her loving owners along with a friendly crew who are all well trained to sail the wilderness of Svalbard. They invite guests to get involved with sailing Noorderlicht but it is certainly not mandatory!

Deck plan

Life on board Noorderlicht

Sleeping and Relaxation

The interior of Noorderlicht is authentically decorated giving an informal, cosy and nautical atmosphere below decks. There are spacious seating areas in the upper-and lower deck salon for all the passengers. There is a small board library available filled with informative lecture about the concerning area, but also some fine novels. Besides there is a small, cozy bar in the upper deck salon.

The sleeping area is situated at the lower deck in 10 twin cabins. All cabins have upper and lower berths, a built-in closet, a washbasin with cold and warm water and a mirror. In your cabin you will also find 220V power outlet to charge your electronics. Furthermore the ship has 5 toilets and 4 showers which are for common use.

The food

If we have learned anything from our years of experience on sailing ships, it is the importance of good and nutritious food on a ship! Although the Arctic area gives rise to limitations on the possibilities and supplies of the food onboard, our professional cook will prepare you excellent meals from the international kitchen three times a day.

To Note…

Full kit information will be given at the time of booking or can be requested beforehand- please just email us at [email protected]

A 50% deposit is required at the time of booking with the final balance due 90days before departure.

What’s included

• All inclusive meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks and hot drinks)
• All bedding (pillow, sheets & duvet)
• Full crew plus tuition
• Marina and fuel fees
• All tender trips to and fro the boat
• Lifejacket

What’s not included

• Alcohol
• Any flights
• Transit hotels
• Travel to and from the boat on the day of joining/leaving
• Travel insurance
• Sailing Insurance (Please read our Sailing Insurance page for more information)
• Crew tips
• Personal expenses

Travel insurance notes

As this is an active adventure holiday, we advise that everyone has the appropriate personal accident travel insurance whilst onboard in addition to standard travel insurance which would cover you in the time between making your booking and departing for your adventure. These policies can sometimes be combined so please check with your travel insurance provider.

Please read more information on our Insurance guidelines page.

This voyage will be more than 12miles offshore.

FAQ

• Are all meals included?

  Yes, all meals on board are included in the price. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and hot drinks) Alcohol is not included.

• Can you cater for dietary needs?

  We can cater for vegetarian, dairy-free and gluten-free. We cannot cater for a vegan diet.

• What language is spoken onboard?

  Dutch/English

• Do I need to tip the crew?

  Tips are not mandatory but are welcomed by the crew (and can be paid by card or in cash €)!

• What are the sleeping arrangements?

  10 x Twin Cabins with shared bathrooms

• Are bedding and towels provided?

  All bedding is provided but please bring your own wash towels. Micro-fibres are great - quick-drying and lightweight for travelling.

• How many toilet/showers does she have?

  4 shower rooms and an extra single toilet

• Is there an age limit?

  Yes. No children younger than 11. Above aged 16 is fine, but ages 11-16 we must check directly with the boat on a case by case basis.

• When is the best time to see the Northern lights in Norway/Svalbard?

  You have the best chance of seeing the Aurora Borealis from mid-late September through to mid-March.

• How cold is it in Svalbard?

  Temperatures vary from April through to September. Depending on the time of year you can expect lows of -30 and highs of +10. It is hard to predict.

• Are muck boots (similar to Wellington boots) essential?

  Yes 100%. Without them your Svalbard experience could be limited, as they will absolutely be required for a number of shore landings from the RIB/tender.

• What luggage type is best for taking on a boat?

  Duffel type bag; made with water-resistant material is desirable. If you must take a hard suitcase (though we do not recommend it) it must be kept in your cabin.

• Is there Wi-Fi?

  No, but you should easily be able to reach 3G/4G from the shore.

• Can I charge my phone/camera?

  Yes. There are power points in all cabins. Please bring 2-pin European adaptors.

• Are life jackets provided?

  Yes

• Are waterproofs provided?

  No

• Do I need sailing experience?

  No, absolutely not! Just a lust for adventure.

• Will I be sea sick?

  Everyone reacts differently but we recommend if you are at all worried to take some medication 24 hours before departure.

Travel Planning

From: Longyearbyen, Svalbard

To: Rotterdam, Netherlands

To see where the ports are, along with your likely sailing area, please view the sail area & highlights.

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BY AIR:

Fly into Oslo or Tromsø to get a connecting flight to Svalbard. There are several flights a day into Longyearbyen airport from Oslo and Tromsø in Norway. Your easiest route from the UK to Longyearbyen (LYR) Airport for Svalbard is from London Heathrow via Oslo with airline SAS.

Taxis and buses meet each incoming /outgoing flight, even the ones in the middle of the night and will stop at the marina on request, and the airport shuttle service stops at all hotels in the centre.

STAY IN SVALBARD:

There are plenty of places to stay in Svalbard. Try Gjesthuset 102, Mary-Ann’s Polarrigg or Funken Lodge.

Please note that you need a guide to travel anywhere outside the town of Longyearbyen due to the risk from polar bears.