experience everything
We are curious. We are restless. We are adventurers by nature. Experience it all on board the SKIRR Adventures High Latitudes expedition.
Your expedition voyage is divided into five legs. The 4,470 nautical mile round trip will take just under three months during the height of summer, with crew arriving or departing at the changeover ports en route.
Adventure sailing is as much about your experience above and below deck as the destinations visited. You will be exploring some of the most remote, pristine waters on the planet, while honing your sailing skills on passage. As a member of the crew team you can also take on a key role such as helping prepare tasty, nutritious and hot meals, being team videographer, or navigating the stars under the magical night sky.
LEGS: EXPERIENCE EVERYTHING
Miles: +4470nm
Temperature Range: 0°c – 21°c
Dates: 27 June – 19 SEPTEMBER 2024
Cost: £13,495
TALK TO AN EXPERT
SAMPLE ITINERARY
DAY 1
ARRIVAL: GOSPORT, ENGLAND
Welcome to Gosport, the gateway to the Solent! Check in at our marina office between 1800-2000 before stowing your luggage and provisions on board.
Get to know each other over a welcome dinner on board before a quick briefing by the skippers detailing the passage plan for the coming days.
DAYs 2-14
WESTERN COVES & SCOTTISH ISLES
Sail along the South Coast of England, enjoy a stop in the West Country or Isles of Scilly, exploring the hidden coves and turquoise waters. Next make the passage up to Scotland exploring the stunning scenery and wildlife of the Scottish islands. You will also have the opportunity to visit some of the historic sites and cultural attractions of Scotland, such as castles, museums and whisky distilleries.
DAYs 15-16
DAYS AT LEISURE
Enjoy two days at leisure in Oban, Scotland. Say farewell to those departing and get ready to welcome some new faces for the next segment of the expedition. If you are looking for a day trip in Oban, you have plenty of options to choose from.
Our top picks include:
Oban Distillery | War & Peace Museum | McCraig’s Tower
DAYs 17-29
DISCOVER ICELAND
Depart Scotland and head north to Reykjavik, Iceland. This is the land of fire and ice, where you can witness the amazing natural phenomena of geysers, volcanoes, glaciers and waterfalls. You will also enjoy the vibrant and cosmopolitan city of Reykjavik, where you can experience the Icelandic culture, cuisine and nightlife.
DAYs 30-31
DAYS AT LEISURE
Reykjavik has something for everyone. Whether you are looking to relax and soak in the geothermal pools, explore the vibrant culture, or marvel at the natural wonders, you won’t be dissapointed!
Our top picks include:
Gullfoss Falls | Blue Lagoon | Geysir Geothermal area
DAYs 32-45
GREENLAND EXPLORER
From Reykjavik, sail west to Greenland, one of the most pristine and untouched places on Earth. Marvel at glaciers and fjords that dominate the landscape, and encounter the fascinating wildlife that inhabits this harsh environment, such as polar bears, seals, whales and birds. Learn about the history and culture of the Greenlandic people.
DAYs 46-47
DAYS AT LEISURE
Isafjordur is a charming town in the Westfjords of Iceland, surrounded by majestic mountains and scenic fjords. Enjoy a day out hiking, kayaking or whale watching. You can also explore the rich history and heritage of the town.
Our top picks include:
Maritime Museum | Dynjandi Waterfall
DAYs 48-61
ARCTIC ADVENTURE
Embark on the most challenging but rewarding part of the expedition: sailing into the Arctic Circle. This is a rare and extraordinary feat that few sailors have achieved. Face unpredictable weather, strong currents and icebergs, whilst witnessing the most spectacular sights that nature has to offer. Visit some of the remote communities that live in this extreme region.
DAYs 62-63
DAYS AT LEISURE
Reykjavik has something for everyone. Whether you are looking to relax and soak in the geothermal pools, explore the vibrant culture, or marvel at the natural wonders, you won’t be dissapointed!
Our top picks include:
Gullfoss Falls | Blue Lagoon | Geysir Geothermal area
DAYs 64-83
ICELAND, ISLES AND ISLANDS
In September, you will begin your journey back to Gosport, via the Faroe Islands and the Scottish Islands. You will have a chance to relax and reflect on your incredible adventure, as well as enjoy some more sightseeing and activities along the way. You will arrive back in Gosport in mid September, with memories and stories that will last a lifetime.
DAY 84
DEPARTURE: GOSPORT, ENGLAND
We will arrive back in Gosport, where our trip ends. You will help with the deep clean of the boat before departure at 16:00. Say goodbye to your crew mates and take home unforgettable memories and new friendships.
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 / between legs
- 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
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
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 £1300 | 7 DAYS
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 £980 | 9 DAYS +
ACHIEVED RYA COMPETENT CREW?
If you have already achieved RYA Competent Crew or equivalent you may gain the relevant experience required for later legs by sailing on this leg, Leg 1 Western Coves & Scottish Isles.
WILDLIFE HIGHLIGHTS
Experience it all. This expedition provides a unique opportunity to observe the diverse wildlife of the North Atlantic. Perhaps encountering, whales, dolphins, seabirds and polar bears. These creatures have adapted to the harsh and changing conditions of their environment, and are a fascinating sight for any adventurous sailor.
