Sailing in the Lofoten Islands, Norway

YOUR SAILING AREA

Lofoten, Norway

The Lofoten Islands are a world-wide travel destination in Norway characterised by magnificent landscapes, rugged mountain scenery, sheltered islands, dramatic fjords and long stretches of white-sand beaches. Sitting above the Arctic circle on the West coast of Norway, the Lofoten Islands are an adventure travellers paradise with vast areas of untouched wilderness just waiting to be explored. Travelling around these islands is certainly best done under sail as you discover  inlets and fjords only accessible from the water. 

Below is a rough guide on what you can expect from your six-day sailing holiday in Norway but the route will be flexible depending on the weather and the wishes of the group. With the route, there will be ample opportunities to explore ashore, go hiking, try fishing or just simply sit back in the hot tub and enjoy the views! 

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Depart from the island of Austvågøya within the Lofoten archipelago. The harbour town of  Svolvær offers good transport links and is the fishing and transportation hub of the islands. Our first stop will be to the picturesque island of Skrova where there are miles of white-sand beaches to explore, trails to hike or bicycles to hire! 

Island hop from Skrova to the neighbouring uninhabited island of Lille Molla for a day of exploration. Explore the shell covered beaches as you watch for the infamous white tailed eagle. This little island is also a great opportunity to try out the Stella Oceana’s two kayaks and paddle-boards!

Wonder at the world famous Trollfjord as you enjoy a spectacular fjord cruise with dramatic mountain landscapes and cascading waterfalls to the water’s edge. This is a serene and breathtaking experience, rounded off perfectly with a beach bonfire on a remote island as you watch the Midnight Sun float on the horizon.

The island of Gimsøy has large protected areas home to rare fauna, flora and birdlife. Although it has a tiny population of 181 people, Gimsøy is the perfect remote spot for deep sea fishing and whale watching. Practise your fishing skills here for cod and haddock as you spend time relaxing on deck, perhaps taking a polar plunge and enjoying the hot tub! To the north of the island there are Icelandic horses for hire to explore the ancient Viking trails. 

The historical fishing village of Henningsvær is great for some island wandering. With plenty of art galleries, cafes, boutiques and some of Northern Europe’s oldest rocks in the world at over 3 billion years old! The final sail back in the open fjord as Stella Oceana returns to Svolvær. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for whales on the horizon – this is a perfect chance to see them.

This trip is covered by our Package Travel Regulations. Minimum passenger = 6

If the minimum number of participants is not reached within 45 days of the departure date then the tour may be cancelled or rescheduled, but in most cases, we are still able to run the tour without additional charges, and may ask for your cooperation to make modifications to your tour itinerary, but keeping the original tour start and end dates. When the number of participants is below the critical level, we will inform you 6 weeks prior to the departure date and consult you with your options, which can include additional supplements for the cabins (depending on the number of participants).

If the tour is cancelled you will receive a full refund of all payments made including the deposit made at the time of booking and the remaining balance that was paid 90 days prior to the departure date. We cancel because it is both financially and ecologically unsustainable to do a cruise with too few participants. We appreciate your understanding and flexibility. 

All voyages for Stella Oceana

Stella Oceana

Guest berths: 8 Rig: Gaff Ketch

A custom-built charter yacht, Stella Oceana is the perfect boat for sailing and exploring the beautiful remote island and fjords of Norway. Based in Tromsø and Svolvær, she sleeps 8 guests in private cabins offering individual voyages and whole boat charter holidays in Norway. Explore the remote islands of Lofoten and the breathtaking Arctic fjords in utmost comfort.

Built in 1991 using the 40T keel from her predecessor Anna Marie of Donsö (a Swedish cargo ship), Stella Oceana has spent the past 30 years sailing in Norway, Sweden and Denmark. She’s a beautiful example of Scandinavian craftsmanship with hardwood and metal used throughout her hull, deck and interiors. Her slim but heavy build offers a stable, slow and smooth sailing experience and her 1C ice classification means she can sail through ice up to 50 cm thick! Her unique design allows her to explore the more remote islands and fjords that are not accessible to the larger, more common small cruise ships. 

The resident Captain of Stella Oceana, is a world class sea Captain with the highest international designation by SOLAS, the United Nations International Maritime Organisation. His partner takes care of the front of house operations aboard, ensuring guests have a first class, professional and relaxed experience. With a further two crew on hand, you don’t have to have any previous sailing knowledge, just let the crew take you to discover some of the most beautiful places in Scandinavia.

Read more about the crew here 

 

BELOW DECKS

There are two exterior deck levels with plenty of space for relaxation. The main deck is perfect for taking in the view, practicing yoga or even unwind in the boats very own hot tub! The upper deck level has an outdoor kitchen and dining area – a great spot to enjoy any fresh fish you’ve caught! 

Below decks, she has a large saloon with high ceilings and plenty of natural light. There are two twin cabins and a larger four-berth cabin that works well for families or groups of friends. For only 8 berths on a 100ft vessel, Stella Oceana gives guests a spacious, relaxed sailing experience. Her voyages are focussed on the beautiful landscapes, fjords and coastline of Norway with plenty of time to explore ashore. 

Read more about what to expect from life on board here

More about Stella Oceana

Life on board

Our sailing holidays in Norway on Stella Oceana are of wonderful, unique and awe-inspiring encounters. Immerse yourself into the natural, dramatic landscapes of the Norwegian fjords, islands and coastline as you experience living as a community aboard this purpose-built charter boat. Her sailing voyages are a social activity, meeting new people or sharing amazing memories with friends and family.

RELAX IN NATURE

Soaking in the natural wonders of Norway while relaxing in pure comfort is at the top of Stella Oceana’s offering. From the hot tub on deck (yes, you read that right!), to an outdoor kitchen for cooking our very own catch of the day (fishing rods/lines are included if you fancy a go) to a spacious saloon below decks, there are plenty of opportunities to relax under sail. There are also two kayaks and two stand-up paddle-boards for guests to use so you can explore the nooks and crannies of the coastline.

The professional crew are always on-hand to provide a high quality service to guests. Stella Oceana does have a gaff ketch rig but the majority of her fjord sailing will be done under motor due to the changeable wind directions. For longer sailing voyages along the Norwegian coast, there will be more opportunities to sail. The crew welcome guests to get involved if they would like to but this is not at all expected. The only expectation is that guests have the most relaxing adventure in Norway!

SLEEPING & RELAXATION

Both above and below decks, Stella Oceana is not short of comfortable spaces to relax in. The exterior deck is split into two levels. The upper deck has seating for al-fresco dining under the stars and an outdoor kitchen for BBQ feasts. The main deck is home to the boats pièce de résistance – a hot tub. Channel your inner Wim Hof with a quick Arctic dip before retreating to the warmth of a luxury 6-person hot tub on deck. Guests are also invited to practice yoga, meditation or just simply sit back and soak in the breath-taking views.

Below decks, the space continues with a high-ceiled large saloon housing a dining area, large corner sofa, bar, coffee machine and even WIFI. The private cabins are made up of two twin bunks and a four-berth cabin all sharing a shower and toilet. Each cabin has wardrobe storage space, adjustable heating and a natural light hatch with all linen and towels included.

FOOD & DRINK

Inspired by northern Norwegian traditions, the menu is ever-changing while using local, ethical, fresh and organic produce. A popular activity aboard is to run fishing rods and lines while moving through the fjords so anything we catch can be served up fresh for dinner! There is a dedicated chef on board to cook all meals with snacks, hot drinks, juices and clean arctic water available throughout the day and all included in your ticket price. An onboard bar sits to the end of the saloon with alcoholic drinks on a tab system.

Climate

Despite being in the Arctic circle, the Lofoten Islands give a relatively mild summer temperature average of about 29°C thanks to the warm gulf stream currents.

Between the months of June-August, the sun stays above the horizon through the night giving a golden daylight known as the Midnight Sun.

WHAT’S INCLUDED 

• All inclusive (breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. Soft/hot drinks)
• All bedding (pillow, sheets & duvet) and wash towel
• Full crew plus tuition
• Marina and fuel fees
• All tender trips to and fro the boat
• Lifejacket
• Use of boats kayaks, stand-up paddle-boards and fishing rods/lines
• Thermal suit

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED

• Alcohol – there is a fully stocked honesty bar on board. Just add to your tab and pay at the end of the voyage.
• All 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 not more than 12miles offshore.

Package Travel Regulations

This trip is covered by our Package Travel Regulations (PTR) Insurance. Please click here to view the Terms & Conditions.

FAQ

• Are all meals included?

  Yes - all meals are included in the price (Breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, hot/soft drinks)

• Are there any added extra's?

  No, unless you go ashore.

• Can you cater for dietary needs?

  Yes we can cater for most diets, please check at time of enquiry.

• What language is spoken onboard?

  English/Norwegian/Japanese

• What are the sleeping arrangements?

  There are 2x twin bunk cabins and 1x 4-berth bunk cabin

• How many toilet/showers does she have?

  one for guests, one shared with the boat

• Is there WIFI?

  Yes, although please bear in mind that it can be intermittent at sea!

• Can I charge my phone/Camera?

  Yes

• Are there life jackets provided?

  Yes

• Are Waterproofs provided?

  Yes, thermal suits are provided.

• Do I need sailing experience?

  No, absolutely not! Just a need 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. Ginger tea and biscuits also help with sea sickness.

• Is bedding included?

  All bedding and shower towels are included.

Travel Planning

From: Svolvær, Norway

To: Svolvær, Norway

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

Getting There

By Air

Fly from London Gatwick to Oslo and changeover for another flight to Svolvær. Svolvær airport is just a 10 minute taxi ride from the port. Try British Airways or Lufthansa Airlines.

Alternatively, take a flight to Bodo, Norway and get the ferry over to Svolvær. You don’t have to book in advance but if you want to, use Reis Norway  and for more useful ferry information, try Life in Norways blog article.