Sailing Expedition from Iceland to the Faroe Islands & Hebrides

Vessel: Valiente
Where: Isafjordur, Iceland
Duration: 15 days

Embark: Isafjordur, Iceland - 4 September 2022, 16:00
Disembark: Oban, Scotland - 18 September 2022, 12:00

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Sail from the Arctic shores of Iceland to the Faroe Islands before finishing on West coast of Scotland with expedition vessel Valiente.

From Iceland’s volcanic rocks and hot springs, via the Faroe Islands’ green-clad mountainsides and waterfalls that plunge straight into the sea, and to the Hebrides’ unbeatable sandy beaches and world-famous whiskey traditions. On this trip we really get to experience the open sea with several days of ocean crossing. We sail through areas rich in animal and bird life, and ashore we will see how our Norse ancestors have influenced the culture of these archipelagos.

Expedition sailing

Start this voyage from the saga island of Iceland exploring the northwest and west coasts as we sail south and east. Iceland has an exciting landscape and is known for volcanic activity with associated hot springs, which makes the visit completely unique. The Faroe Islands offer spectacular rocky shores and views we do not find in many other places. Here it is clear that the open sea has battered the ocean cliffs and shaped the landscape for thousands of years. Once in the Hebrides, we spend the rest of the time hopping between these traditional islands, visiting some of the world’s leading whiskey distilleries, and sailing with the tidal currents.

On this expedition we have two stages with offshore sailing, Iceland – Faroe Islands and Faroe Islands – Hebrides / Scotland. During the cruises, we will work in watch shifts around the clock and learn a lot about navigation, sailing, and seamanship. We also learn about wind, weather, waves and the sea. It’s a bit of an experience to surf down the waves with this huge expedition ship!

Iceland

After the first leg sailing along the coast of Iceland, we arrive at Vestmannaeyjar and the lonely lighthouse Pridrangar which stands all by itself on top of a pinnacle in the middle of the sea. From here we head southeast towards the Faroe Islands! The crossing is around 370 nautical miles and will take about 3 days. Perhaps a bit more or a bit less, depending on the wind! During the crossing we really get to feel what it is like to be at sea with a large sailboat, and we will feel the forces of nature and experience the wildlife! Maybe we will receive a visit from a whale or two, and the seabirds will make the journey with us. When we finally reach the coast of the Faroe Islands, we will find a good harbor, perhaps in one of the well-known traditional villages Gjogv or Saksun.

Faroe Islands

In the northwestern part of the Faroe Islands we find some of the most spectacular sights the archipelago has to offer. Here, the Atlantic Ocean has formed steep cliffs and pinnacles that plunge straight into the sea. We sail past the island of Mykines, and maybe we will get to go ashore and visit Mykines lighthouse, the westernmost lighthouse on the Faroe Islands. On this voyage we pass the village Gásadalur with its world-famous waterfall, Múlafossur, and the formations Drangarnir and Tindholmur. Other nice stops are Vestmanna, with its famous bird mountains, and Midvagúr with the hike to Leitisvatn.

Before we sail further south, we have to stop by the capital of the Faroe Islands, Thorshavn. This is a very charming city, which could easily be the backdrop for the latest Hollywood movie about Vikings. The old town is very intact and features narrow streets between log houses with peat and grass on the roof. The town is bustling with life, and we spend some time exploring what this historic city has to offer.

Hebrides

We spend the last days of the trip exploring the beautiful Hebrides. Here we sail between medieval castles and small villages with grassy hills and rocky shores as a backdrop. The Isle of Lewis and the Isle of Skye are among the places we will sail to on our way through the sea area which the Scots call The Minch. Here we can find whiskey distilleries like pearls on a string, and we take time to sail by and taste the goodies. Talisker Distillery at Isle of Skye is a really good distillery just on our route, which we want to stop by.

LIFE AT SEA

Your ticket price will include the skipper and first mate (co-skipper) Along the way, sailing or on motor, Valiente will include all participants in the sailing. Generally, she sails at all times of the day, and everyone onboard will be running watches of 4 hours on and 8 hours off. When on anchor, there will be rotation shifts with one anchor guard awake, so that the rest can sleep.

FAQ

What COVID policies are in place for sailing with Valiente?
TBC
Are all meals included?
Yes
Are there any added extra's?
TBC
Do I need to tip the crew?
Tips are not mandatory but are welcomed by the crew!
Can you cater for dietary needs?
Yes - please specify at time of enquiry
What language is spoken onboard?
English
What are the sleeping arrangements?
3x double cabins, 1x twin bunk cabin, 1 x quad bunk cabin
How many toilet/showers does she have?
5
Is there WIFI?
No
Can I charge my phone/Camera?
TBC
Are there life jackets provided?
Yes
Are Waterproofs provided?
TBC
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.
Is bedding included?
TBC