Saying goodbye to the UK was more emotional than expected, but we have now sailed to Faroe Islands. It takes some planning to get to Faroe Islands as the waters can be difficult and fog is very normal. We arrived in Vágur and went hiking. Then we visited Tvøroyri and met hospitable locals. The harbours are mostly made for fishing vessels and all gear is needed to get electricity, water and calm mooring.
Sailing
Northbound in the Outer Hebrides
We arrived at the Outer Hebrides on the West coast of Scotland. This place has a lot of changing landscapes and seems a lot less populated. We visit East Tabert, Scalpay and Stornoway and see the historic standing stones and the opium castle of west Scotland.
Practical Stuff and Beautiful Light in Scotland
We have been quiet lately as we’ve been immersed in sailing life and busy provisioning and planning. We have sailed when it fitted the tide and slept light while anchoring so we have been a little groggy at times. We journeyed from Ballycastle to Oban. We have been enjoying Scotland’s majestic landscapes and people mixed with preparing for going north.
Ireland Winter Sailing – Thoughts and Resources
We had to sail back to Ballycastle to wait for the right weather to go to Scotland and continue North. But we put some of our resources in this post in case other people could find them useful. Ireland is definitely a fantastic place to sail and we
The last stop in Northern Ireland – Derry/Londonderry
Sailing to Derry in Northern Ireland needed some careful planning. Swells and currents made it treacherous, but the Causeway coast’s cliffs were breathtaking. Mooring was a nightmare, akin to a Barentsburg night. Despite closed galleries, Derry’s history, food, and street art made it very memorable.
Tips for Crewing
I’m Sarah a fulltime sailor with a lot of different experiences. These are some of my tips for newcomers seeking crewing experience. Finding the right boat and skipper is crucial. Whether crewing privately, paying for a spot on a commercial boat, or renting with friends, considerations vary. This guide aims to empower, ensuring memorable and safe sailing adventures.
Starting our trip around the Emerald Isle
In Belfast, we enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere and great restaurants. We continued to Glenarm, a small village with lots of historic points. We took a trip to the neighbouring marina where a scene from Game of Thrones had been filmed. the the wind was right to continue to Ballycastle and sailing around the dramatic cliffs Fair Head into its well-protected harbour.
Highlights from Svalbard (the west and north coasts)
Planning an Arctic expedition demands meticulous preparation. Navigating remote areas requires a self-sufficient crew, capable of boat repairs. Polar bear encounters necessitate firearm training and permits. Extensive paperwork, including sailing, rifle, and landing permits, along with insurance, must be sorted well in advance. Despite challenges, the Arctic offers breathtaking landscapes, wildlife, and continuous summer sunlight. Access planning resources at the provided link.
Our YouTube Videos
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Viking Route Cruising Resources
Useful resources and information for planning to sail the Viking Route across the North Atlantic.