LEG 2: DISCOVER ICELAND
An offshore adventure through the North Atlantic to the south coast of Iceland and expedition into the Hvalfjoerdur fjord.
This expedition is ideal for those looking for an adventurous sailing trip. With an open ocean passage, this leg offes opportunities to develop your sailing skills alongside the chance to enjoy the hours of darkness getting shorter as you sail north.
From the Westman Islands you’ll be exploring spectacular rock formations as you sail towards the Reykjanes Peninsula & South Coast of Iceland. Expect sea caves, the chance to spot a smouldering volcano and challenging coastal cruising.
The Hvalfjoerdur is a picturesque fjord not far from Reykjavik where the yachts may anchor up and explore the area, including the natural springs where there is a spa to relax tired muscles, and the option of local hiking.
Leg 2: DISCOVER ICELAND
Miles: +785nm
Temperature Range: 9°c – 14°c
Dates: 13 July – 26 July 2024
Cost: £2750
TALK TO AN EXPERT
SAMPLE ITINERARY
DAY 1
ARRIVAL: OBAN, SCOTLAND
Arrive at the marina in Oban between 1800 and 2000 and meet your skipper and crew. You will be welcomed aboard and get a chance to familiarise yourself with the boat and its equipment.
DAY 2
EXPEDITION DEPARTURE
This morning will involve a yacht familiarisation and safety brief in preparation for an early afternoon departure. Experience the thrill of sailing in the North Atlantic and admire the stunning scenery along the way.
DAYS 3-7
NORTH ATLANTIC PASSAGE
Sail towards Vestmannaeyjar, a group of volcanic islands off the south coast of Iceland. Practice your sailing skills and enjoy the abundant wildlife and nature found in this region. You may see whales, dolphins, seals, puffins, and more.
DAYS 8-10
ISLANDS OF FIRE
Explore Vestmannaeyjar by boat and by land. Visit the main island of Heimaey, where you can hike to the crater of Eldfell volcano, see the remains of the 1973 eruption, and learn about the history and culture of the islanders. You may also visit some of the smaller islands, where you can see amazing rock formations, caves, and dramatic cliffs.
DAYS 11-13
FANTASTIC FJORDS
Next, sail towards Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, maybe stopping at some of the fjords along the way, where you can admire the majestic mountains and glaciers. Experience the contrast between the rural and urban life of Iceland.
DAY 14
DEPARTURE: Reykjavik, Iceland
End your adventure in Reykjavik. Assist with the deep clean of the boat and say goodbye to your skipper and crew. You will depart from the boat at 1300 and continue your journey in Iceland or fly back home.
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
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
Vestmannaeyjar is synonymous with Atlantic birdlife which nest in their millions in the cliffs and grassy ledges. Puffins are especially abundant attracted by the North Atlantic’s richest fishing grounds in this area. This also attracts seals, dolphins and whales and in large numbers, which are best seen from onboard. Iceland is home to a variety of wildlife, both on land and in the sea. One of the most iconic animals of Iceland is the Icelandic horse, a small but sturdy breed that has been living on the island for over a thousand years.
