Private Charter in Norway; Arctic Circle Sailing

YOUR SAILING AREA

Arctic Territory, Norway

Home to around 490,000 people, one tenth of the country’s population, Norway’s Arctic territory comprises nearly half the country’s land mass. The Arctic indigenous people of the Saami have lived in this region for thousands of years and it’s easy to see why with rugged mountains jutting from the sea making dramatic panorama’s at every turn. Visit small coastal villages, phenomenal fjords, thousands of uninhabited islands, miles of white-sand beaches and several nature reserves and national parks.

Although high in the Arctic circle, you’ll experience mild summer temperatures of up to 29°C thanks to warm gulf stream currents with 24 hours of golden daylight under the midnight sun between June to August.

Stella Oceana can sleep up to 10 guests in private cabins so is perfect for families or small groups of friends looking for that unique charter experience.

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Depart from Norway’s gateway to the Arctic circle, the administrative town of Bodø. Your first Norwegian adventure will actually be on a thrilling Rib safari to see the world’s largest maelstrom (strongest tidal currents)! Once you’re safely back aboard and settled on Stella Oceana, it’s time to set sail for a 6 hour journey up the coast. Relax on deck as we sail by coastlines filled with skerries, uninhabited islands and nature reserves. We’ll drop anchor near the village of Kjerringøy where you can spend some time exploring the islets by kayak or paddleboard and relaxing on a remote beach with a midnight sun bonfire. 

​Today we will make a 7 hour open sea crossing to the island of Skrova. This crossing is the perfect opportunity to spot some marine life – orca, fin and humpback whales are common sightings in this area so keep your eyes peeled! 

Once you’re in Skrova, you’re officially in the Lofoten Islands! Take some time ashore for easy walking along white-sand beaches, or a more challenging hill hike where there are incredible views of the surrounding ocean and islands. It’s a breathtaking experience to feel the vastness of the ocean and natural wonders of this part of the world.

Island hop north to Store Molla as you enjoy the island’s rivers, waterfalls and the crystal clear water along the coast. This little island is perfect for exploring by kayak or paddle-board as you connect to the natural world and discover secluded coves. The time here is yours to do as you wish, so perhaps take a walk through the mountains ashore or relax from the comfort of the boat, reading a book or making the most of the hot tub on deck. 

Try your hand at fjord fishing for local cod, pollock, haddock, mackerel, halibut and red fish – if you’re lucky enough, the chef will cook up your catch for dinner! 

Your last day on the water will see Stella Oceana sail to the world famous Trollfjord. The fjords of Lofoten are a top travellers destination and with more water than land, these islands are certainly best explored under sail. Steep sided mountain fjords are a truly dramatic experience from the deck of the boat, the vastness of this place is immense and a memory you’ll never forget! 

As you cruise through the Norwegian fjords, you’ll likely be blessed with eagle sightings, waterfalls and some of the cleanest Arctic drinking water in the area. Anchor up and if you’re brave enough, take a polar plunge before warming up in the boats on deck hot tub! 

Once we’ve spent the day relaxing in the tranquillity of the fjords, it’s time to turn sail to the island of Austvågøya, still within the Lofoten archipelago. You can opt to stay in the hot tub for this journey if you’d like, making the most of relaxing on board before reaching the harbour of Svolvær! This is where you will depart Stella Oceana, with the town offering good transport links and accommodation for onward travel.

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

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

Although high in the Arctic circle, you’ll experience mild summer temperatures of up to 29°C thanks to warm gulf stream currents with 24 hours of golden daylight under the midnight sun between June to September.

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

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: Bodø, Norway

To: Svolvær, Norway

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

Getting There