This tall sailing adventure in Iceland begins on the edge of the Arctic circle and on the very edge of civilisation itself.
Sailing out of Iceland’s capital Reykjavik, you’ll voyage along the wild west coast of Iceland as you make your way north to the remote coastal town of Isafjordur.
Over the course of ten days you’ll follow a trail of outposts and learn the history of the hardship Icelanders have endured. You’ll see snow covered slopes shift to fields of wildflowers while being visited by Killer whales, Fin whales, humpbacks, and more.
Just before nature takes control of the landscape is Reykjavik, the world’s most northern capital. Once underway, the first stop is Hvalfjordur with its abandoned whale factory. From there you’ll cross the Flaxafloi and learn about the areas famous sagas as you go. One of greatest landmarks of the voyage is the sleeping volcano Sneafellnes. It stands 1450 metres and this ‘pyramid of eternal snow’ is a truly a sight to see.
Your vessel for this adventure is an old Herring drifter built in 1915. You and your teammates will join four full time professional crew who will teach you all about sailing on a traditional sailing vessel. Your ten days will include learning steering, navigation, and how to manage sails. There will still be plenty of time for relaxation and slowing your pace to match the rhythm of the seas.
As you head into the South coast you’ll find many secluded anchorages – all worth exploration. Perhaps the operators favorite is Kevlavik. If interested, there is a challenging walk to the bird cliffs. If not, the views from the beach are more than enough to stir your spirit of adventure and love of nature.
Hornstrandir Nature Reserve is next. The place was abandoned in the 1950’s and nature has looked after the place ever since. Here is where you’ll find wonderful Arctic fauna like foxes, Puffins, Kittiwakes, Razorbills, and Guillemots. The final port is Isafjordur, a small port of only 1500 people. The perfect place to launch a land expedition!
Enquire today to learn more.
Why you'll love this adventure
- You are the crew on this voyage - set the sails, take the helm and help navigate the ship
- Sail a beautiful traditional tall ship in the land of ice and snow
- Perfect for solo travellers
Dates
Itinerary
A 10 day voyage accompanied by Killer whales, Fin whales, humpbacks and Sperm whales. The starting point Reykjavik, the world’s most Northern capital. A good first stop is Hvalfjordur, translated – whale fjord, then you are sailing North.
Day 1 : Welcome on board at 18:00h. First safety instructions and introduction of crew and expedition members
Day 2 : Set sail for Hvalfjordur. First sailing instructions
Day 3-7 : Depending on wind, explore the west coast of Iceland.
Day 8-9 : Arriving in Hornstrandir, visit to Hesteyrifjordur
Day 10 : Disembark in Isafjordur, at 10:00h. Or earlier if flight schedules change.
What's included
- Meals
- One bunk per booking in a two person room
- Coffee and tea
- Blanket, sheets, pillow and covers
- 3-4 crew members guiding the group
Not included
- Soda and alcoholic drinks (during sailing no alcohol will be served)
- Towels
- Paid excursions ashore
- Transfer to and from the vessel
- Visa if needed
Trip notes
Price
Min age
Accommodation
There are 6 cabins, each for 2 persons. The cabins are situated in the middle of the ship, which makes them as stable as possible.
Your bunk is inside one of the two person cabins. Your bed will be either the high or the lower bed of a bedbunk. All beds are over 80cm wide and 2 meters long. Each bed has a reading light for the evening hours. The cabins are ensuite. In a wet cell you will find a shower, of course with hot and cold water, and a toilet, that when possible flushes with outside water. In the cabin itself you will find a fountain and mirror. Your clothing can be stored in closet and your bag or suitcase can be stored under the bed.
Tour operator
An old Herring drifter (Logger) built in 1915, the ship is 28 meters long over deck (38 meters overall) and takes 16 trainees on her voyages. No previous sailing experience is needed and experienced and new sailors love her equally.
A family of four professional sailors have owned and run this vessel since 2006 and sail her with true passion. Built for the North Sea she’s a fast sailor and her rigging is as traditional as it gets.
We love that the boat’s appearance is kept as traditional as possible yet combined with modern techniques and equipment. Everyone on board is part of the informal sail training program that is designed to get the best out of everyone whether you join for 2 days or a longer ocean crossing.
On September 13th she and her crew were the first traditional sailing ship to complete the North West Passage after Roald Admundsen with his ship Goya in 2013.
Enquire today
Wild West Iceland – Sail Reykjavik to Isafjordur
Please complete the enquiry form above with as much detail as you can and we will send you all the trip information and connect you with the operator so you can make a booking directly.
If you have queries and questions about the trip include those in your form and we’ll personally reply to you within 24 hours.
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A most helpful, friendly and knowledgeable travel company!
Very helpful and provided lots of research material and excellent personal perspectives on the tall ship sailing trip I was interested in taking.— Martin
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