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Viking Route Cruising Resources
Useful resources and information for planning to sail the Viking Route across the North Atlantic.
We are Heading South to Norway
On 11th August 2023, our group’s boats split, with two of us venturing south, anticipating fair weather. We’re ready for our longest passage of the year, altering our route due to military-imposed no-go zones. We’re bracing for days of motoring, upwind sailing, and the comfort of fresh bread. Steve jokingly challenged Sarah to finish her book, facing a sleepy co-sailor and extra work. Connection resumes in 3-4 days.
Distracted by a feeding Humpback Whale
On August 11, 2023, after dinner, we rendezvoused with Yuma, who was observing a humpback whale, leading to an hour of exceptional whale watching and photography. Although a nearby fin whale proved elusive to our cameras, we continued southward, sailing in light winds and calm seas despite intermittent rain.
We’ve got two days of sailing and internet!
We came to the small science city Ny Ålesund. Where we had a chance to use the internet a little after 2 and a half month without.
A slow day at Mushamna
18th July 2023 It was a beautiful day at Mushamna when we woke up yesterday. We could see some reindeers resting in a bit of snow and a lot of birds were having dramatic fights …
Off to Lofoten
Eager to leave Bodø and its harbor struggles, they cherished the town’s culinary delights but lamented the amenities. Adjusting to Sarah’s organized chaos, Steve embraced a more vegetarian diet. Seizing a favorable wind across Vestfjorden, they sailed through Sørvær and reveled in a smooth journey, relishing memories as Lofoten emerged, offering grandiose Norwegian beauty.
Igerøya and anchoring
The past days brought tranquility as they motored towards Igerøya, embracing the sun amid perpetual daylight. Navigating shallow harbors, the landscape hinted at approaching northern realms. Disrupted eating and sleeping schedules ensued. Battling currents, a scenic anchorage was found, allowing a peaceful dinner in the cockpit. A dolphin sighting marked their serene departure.
A great evening in Brønnøysund
Smoothly sailing to Brønnøysund, they passed the famous Torghatten rock with its photogenic hole, though clouds obscured the view. Attempting fishing, Steve’s speedy sailing sabotaged the effort. Opting for a restaurant in Brønnøysund, a delightful evening unfolded with Saphir, featuring a four-course dinner, wine, and a jovial return to the boat.
Fresh Shrimps and Sunshine
In Rørvik, they met Dutch sailors bound for Svalbard, joining the Northbound boats chat. A late lunch of fresh shrimp led to a grocery run. Despite perpetual daylight, Saphir hosted a ‘sundowner.’ Struggling with weather challenges, they faced rain and motored for another day. Undeterred, they maintained high spirits, enjoying the journey and new connections.