LEG 5: ICELAND, ISLES AND ISLANDS
For the truly adventurous sailor, the south coast of Iceland, the North Atlantic, and the famously dynamic weather surrounding the Danish Faroe Islands will never disappoint.
The sailing passage from Reykjavik to Portsmouth Harbour is a journey of discovery and adventure. You will explore the rugged beauty of the Faroe Islands, the rich history and culture of the Shetlands and Orkney, and the scenic coastlines of England and Wales. Along the way, you will enjoy sailing in varied conditions, from calm fjords to challenging open seas. You will also have the opportunity to visit charming towns and villages, sample local cuisine and wildlife, and learn about the maritime heritage of these regions.
Leg 5: ICELAND, ISLES AND ISLANDS
Miles: +1400nm
Temperature Range: 8°c – 21°c
Dates: 29 AUGUST – 19 SEPTEMBER 2024
Cost: £3250
TALK TO AN EXPERT
SAMPLE ITINERARY
DAY 1
ARRIVAL: REYKJAVIK, ICELAND
Arrive between 18:00 and 20:00 at the marina in Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland and a vibrant city full of history and culture. You will be welcomed by our friendly sailing staff and introduced to your fellow adventurers. You will also get a chance to explore the city and enjoy its nightlife.
DAY 2
EXPEDITION DEPARTURE
You will be taken through a morning safety brief in preparation for an early afternoon departure. We will set sail towards Torshavn, the capital of Faroe Islands, a remote archipelago of 18 islands in the North Atlantic. You will experience the thrill of sailing in open waters and witness the beauty of nature along the way.
DAYS 3-6
TOWARDS Tórshavn
We will sail for about four days, depending on the weather and sea conditions, towards Torshavn, the capital of the Faroe Islands.
Potential Stops:
Tórshavn or similar
DAYs 7-8
RUGGED, ROCKY FAROES
Spend a couple of days exploring the Faroe Islands, which offer stunning scenery, rich wildlife and fascinating culture. You can hike to spectacular viewpoints, visit ancient villages and churches, see puffins and whales, or sample local delicacies.
DAYS 8-10
TOWARDS SHETLANDS
Depart the Faroe Islands and sail towards Shetland Islands, a group of over 100 islands off the coast of Scotland. You will experience another exciting sailing leg, crossing the North Sea and enjoying the changing landscapes. Keep an eye out for dolphins, seals and seabirds along the way.
DAYS 11-12
IN VIKINGS FOOTSTEPS
Arrive in the Shetland Islands, a place of rugged beauty and unique heritage. Spend a couple of days exploring the islands, which offer a variety of attractions and activities. You can visit ancient archaeological sites, museums and galleries, see Shetland ponies and sheep, or enjoy local music and festivals.
DAY 13
ORKNEY, ARCHIPELAGO IN SCOTLAND
We will depart Shetland Islands and sail towards Orkney, another archipelago of over 70 islands off the coast of Scotland.
You will experience another scenic sailing leg, passing by cliffs, lighthouses and islands.
DAYS 14-16
NEOLITHIC SITES & SANDSTONE CLIFFS
Arrive in Orkney, a place of history and mystery. We will spend some time exploring the islands, which offer a wealth of attractions and activities. You can visit Neolithic monuments, stone circles and tombs, see Viking relics and shipwrecks, or enjoy local crafts and cuisine.
DAYS 16-20
HOMEWARD BOUND
We will leave Orkney and sail back towards Gosport, our final destination. You will experience one last sailing adventure, crossing the North Sea again and enjoying the views.
You will also have a chance to reflect on your journey and celebrate with your crew mates.
DAYS 21
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. You will 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
- 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
Iceland, Faroe Islands and Scotland are all destinations that offer a rich variety of wildlife to observe and admire. Some of the wildlife you might expect to see are, puffins, whales, seals, red deer, dolphins and more. Keep your binoculars handy on this leg!
