ARCTIC HORIZONS

Trondheim – bodo

Set a course north towards the Arctic, sailing from historic Trondheim through Norway’s wild and spectacular coastline to Bodø, where mountains, islands and open horizons await.

Leaving Trondheim behind, this voyage takes you further north along the Norwegian coast and towards the Arctic Circle. With rugged mountains, countless islands, sheltered sounds and remote coastal communities along the way, the landscape becomes wilder as we journey towards Bodø.

This is a chance to experience Norway from the water while developing your sailing and navigation skills along one of the most varied stretches of coastline in the country. From navigating narrow channels and fjords to making longer passages between coastal landmarks, every day will bring something different.

The Route

Our exact route will depend on weather, sea conditions and local circumstances, but the voyage will take us progressively north towards the Arctic Circle.

1) Trondheim & the Trøndelag Coast
Departing from Trondheim, we’ll begin our journey north through the sheltered waters of Trøndelag. The coastline is scattered with islands and small fishing communities, offering a fascinating introduction to Norway’s more remote coastal landscape.

2) Towards the Arctic
As we continue north, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic. Mountains rise directly from the sea, rocky islands and skerries create a constantly changing sailing environment, and the coastline opens up as we approach the Arctic Circle. Along the way, we’ll navigate a mixture of sheltered coastal waters and more exposed passages, putting your sailing and navigation skills to the test.

3) Arctic Circle
One of the highlights of the journey will be reaching the Arctic Circle, at approximately 66°34’N. Crossing this line marks our arrival into the Arctic and is a memorable milestone for any sailor. Depending on conditions and our exact route, we may have the opportunity to pause and take in the landscape before continuing north.

4) Bodø & Arctic Horizons
Our voyage finishes in Bodø, surrounded by some of northern Norway’s most striking scenery. With dramatic mountains, islands and open sea stretching towards the horizon, it is a fitting destination for an adventure into the Arctic.

Please note: The route and any stops are weather and sea-condition dependent. We’ll remain flexible throughout the voyage, adapting our plans to make the most of the conditions while keeping the experience safe and enjoyable for everyone on board.

Arctic Horizons

This is where the journey starts to feel truly Arctic. Expect long days, changing weather, dramatic coastal scenery and a real sense of travelling into the north.

Whether you’re building your offshore sailing experience or simply looking for an adventure somewhere far from the ordinary, Trondheim to Bodø offers the opportunity to experience Norway’s northern coastline from the best possible viewpoint – from the deck of a sailing yacht.

Expedition Dates

ARCTIC HORIZONS:       11 July – 24 July 2027 – prior to this expedition, you can add on the KINGDOM OF THE FJORDS

ADD AN OFFSHORE DELIVERY PASSAGE from Gosport to Norway

Prior to the expedition, you can travel to Iceland by joining us for the 950NM offshore passage from Gosport, UK to Bergen, Norway. Not only is this a great way to build upon existing skills, it’s a great chance to learn new ones. This passage will depart Gosport on 08 June 2027 and will arrive in Bergen on/around 19 June 2027

Click here to find out more – Gosport to Norway offshore delivery passage – you can add this at the time of booking or contact us to find out more.

Route: arctic horizons

Type: EXPEDITION SAILING

Temperature Range: 3°c – 11°c

Expedition Dates:
11 JULY- 24 jULY 2027

MIN. EXPERIENCE NEEDED:

RYA DAY SKIPPER // CLIPPER LEVEL 1 TRAINING OR EQUIVALENT

TALK TO AN EXPERT

+44 (0) 2392 215 215

ARE YOU CLIPPER RACE ALUMNI? 

IF YOU HAVE COMPLETED ONE OR MORE LEGS OF THE CLIPPER ROUND THE WORLD YACHT RACE, you can get get a 5% discount on your total booking value. *

*Discount not applicable to offshore delivery passages.

ROUTE HIGHLIGHTS

Sailing along Norway’s spectacular coastline offers a unique opportunity to experience some of the country’s most dramatic landscapes from the water. From towering fjords and snow-capped mountains to remote islands, fishing villages and Arctic coastlines, the scenery is constantly changing as you head further north. Along the way, you may encounter whales, dolphins, seals and a variety of seabirds, while the longer summer days offer plenty of time to explore and take in the incredible surroundings. Below are some key highlights:

  • ENJOY A VARIETY OF SAILING CONDITIONS

  • WITNESS TOWERING ICEBERGS & EXPANSIVE FJORDS

  • LOOK OUT FOR WHALES, DOLPHINS, SEABIRDS AND MORE

  • Cross the Arctic Circle and become a ‘Blue Nose’

  • DISCOVER THE RUGGED BEAUTY OF EASTERN GREENLAND

  • EXPERIENCE THE REMOTENESS OF GREENLAND SETTLEMENTS

“I couldn’t have asked for a more interesting way to experience the Arctic. A great group of people from all walks of life embodying the required team spirit, stunning wildlife highlighted by our bird’s eye view of a polar bear, a musk ox home cooked dinner with a delightful Innuit family and, most importantly, a thoroughly professional and fun sailing team.

Congratulations SKIRR on putting together this opportunity to live the dream.”

MARK | Polar Explorer 2025

“Our Greenland route, was a total blast! A throughly professional operation, good solid and well maintained boat, an experienced crew, and experiences that one cannot get elsewhere.

This was my first sail with SKIRR and it will not be my last. Their operations were first rate from providing me information about the sail beforehand so I was properly equipped for the cold weather, and having a sturdy boat available to sail in potentially hazardous seas.”

PETER | Polar Explorer 2025

SAMPLE ITINERARY

The itinerary below provides an example of how your Arctic Horizons adventure could unfold. As with any sailing adventure, the route and timings are subject to weather, sea conditions and our progress. The Skipper may adapt the itinerary throughout the voyage to make the most of the conditions and ensure the safety of everyone on board.

ARRIVAL: tRONHEIM, nORWAY

Arrive at Tronheim marina between 1700 and 1800 to meet your Skipper and crew.

You will be welcomed aboard and get the chance to familiarise yourself with the boat before heading off for a crew dinner.

DAY 1

EXPEDITION DEPARTURE

Your first morning will begin with a full yacht familiarisation and safety briefing with your Skipper and expedition team, preparing you for the journey north.

Once ready, we’ll leave Trondheim and begin our voyage along Norway’s spectacular coastline. The first passage will give you the opportunity to settle into life on board and get hands-on with sail trimming, winch handling and helming as we make our way towards the Arctic.

DAYS 2-5

NORTH ALONG THE NORWEGIAN COAST

Depending on conditions, our aim will be to continue north along Norway’s spectacular coastline, navigating a mix of sheltered waters, open passages and narrow channels.

Along the way, you’ll experience varied sailing conditions while developing your skills in helming, sail handling and navigation. Keep watch for seabirds, seals, dolphins and whales as we make our way towards the Arctic Circle.

By day 5, we aim to have reached the dramatic Helgeland coast, surrounded by mountains, islands and remote coastal communities.

DAYS 6-8

EXPLORING THE ARCTIC COAST

Over the next few days, we’ll continue exploring Norway’s northern coastline, with opportunities to head ashore and experience some of the remote communities and landscapes along the route.

Depending on our progress and conditions, we may spend time exploring by boat and on land, taking in the dramatic mountains, islands and coastal scenery before continuing our journey towards Bodø.

DAYS 9-10

TOWARDS BODØ

Leaving the northern coastline behind, we’ll continue our journey towards Bodø, navigating a mix of open water and sheltered coastal passages.

Depending on conditions and our progress, we may have the opportunity to explore further sections of the rugged coastline or stop at a remote anchorage before completing the final stretch of our Arctic adventure.

DAY 11

FINISH: BODØ

Having completed your journey north along Norway’s spectacular coastline, you’ll arrive in Bodø, a vibrant coastal town and gateway to the Arctic. Enjoy a final crew dinner together before spending your last night on board and reflecting on the adventure.

After breakfast, you’ll assist with a deep clean of the boat before saying goodbye to your Skipper and fellow crew. You’ll then be free to depart the boat in Bodø by 11:00, taking with you memories of an unforgettable journey through Norway’s fjords and Arctic coastline.

EXPECT AN EXPEDITION
NOT A CRUISE

The itinerary we provide for our sailing expedition is a guideline that may vary depending on weather conditions, wildlife sightings, and other contributing factors.

All SKIRR Adventures itineraries are examples and do not form any part of the contract.

the detail

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • All food and accommodation on board (except the evening of joining)
  • Use of wet weather gear (jacket and trousers)
  • Use of safety equipment including life jacket
  • Personal injury & travel insurance for the duration of your leg

What’s not included

  • Dinner on arrival night
  • Travel to and from the boat for joining and departure
  • Any meals ashore
  • Visas
  • Personal equipment (see packing list)

SOLO TRAVELLERS

Did you know that most of our guests are solo explorers? Sailing is a wonderful way to explore new destinations and make new friends. You’ll never feel lonely on board, as you’ll be part of a friendly and diverse crew.

PERSONAL FITNESS
You will be expected to participate in various tasks such as hoisting sails, steering, anchoring, and docking. You will also have the opportunity to explore different destinations on foot, which may involve a short hike. Therefore, we recommend that you have a moderate degree of fitness, mobility and health before joining our expeditions.

 

You can always improve your fitness in the months leading up to your departure by following a simple exercise routine and eating a balanced diet.
AGE

To join a SKIRR adventures expedition, you must be at least 18 years old. Our trips are designed for people who love adventure, regardless of their age. We welcome guests from 18-70+. We don’t see age as a barrier, just a number. Come and explore the world with us!

GROUP SIZE
Our small group sailing expeditions operate a maximum guest size of 12 onboard each boat. We send two boats on each expedition, so there can be up to 24 guests across both boats at any one time.
 
You can book individually or with your friends and family, and enjoy the experience of sailing with a professional crew and a friendly group of fellow explorers.

sailing experience

To join this expedition leg, you will need prior recent sailing experience.

This can be one of the following:

  • Clipper Race Level 1 Training
  • RYA Day Skipper
  • Equivalent sailing experience

If you have sailing experience, but no prior qualifications, we will consider your application on a case by case basis. Please contact us with details of your sailing history.

If you have no prior sailing experience, don’t worry… you can still book onto the Clipper Race Level 1 training (below) or work towards your RYA Day Skipper (a globally endorsed qualification).

OPTION 1

CLIPPER RACE: LEVEL 1

Join crew onboard a Clipper Race yacht for an intensive course that prepares aspiring sailors for the challenges of long ocean crossings. The training covers the basics of sailing, safety, teamwork and leadership.

You will be joined by crew looking to take on the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race, many of whom will have never sailed before, so it’s a fantastic place to begin your sailing journey.

FROM £700* | 7 DAYS

*when purchased with a leg of SKIRR adventures

OPTION 2

RYA DAY SKIPPER

You can obtain your RYA Day Skipper qualification through our preferred training provider, Hamble School of Yachting.

For those with no prior sailing experience, we would recommend that you do your RYA Competent Crew prior to your RYA Day Skipper qualification, where you will be taught the fundamentals of crewing, as well as how to ‘live’ onboard a cruising yacht.

 FROM £1,079 | 9 DAYS +

ARE YOU READY TO EXPLORE?

BOOK NOW TO JOIN THE 2027 EXPEDITION.
THE JOURNEY STARTS HERE.