LEG 4: arctic adventure
Follow in the footsteps of both historic explorers who navigated sea ice in the North Atlantic and also modern-day scientists in the quest to limit changes to our vulnerable environment.
Leg 4: ARCTIC ADVENTURE
Miles: +800nm
Temperature Range: 0°c – 15°c
Dates: 13-27 August 2024
Cost: £3250
TALK TO AN EXPERT
SAMPLE ITINERARY
DAY 1
ARRIVAL: Ísafjörður, ICELAND
Arrive in Isafjordur, a charming fishing town in the Westfjords of Iceland, between 1800 and 2000.
You will meet your skipper and crew, and get settled below deck. Enjoy a welcome dinner and a briefing on the plan for the next two weeks.
DAY 2
EXPEDITION DEPARTURE
After breakfast, we will go through some safety procedures and checks, and make sure you are comfortable with the boat and its equipment. We will depart Isafjordur in the early afternoon, and set sail towards Greenland. You will have a chance to learn some sailing skills, or just relax and enjoy the views of the rugged coastline.
DAYS 3-5
CROSSING THE DENMARK STRAIT
We will sail across the Denmark Strait, following the route of the Vikings who first discovered Greenland. Experience the thrill of sailing in the open ocean, and witness the changing scenery as we approach the Greenland coast.
DAYS 6-8
SCORESBY SUND
Enter Scoresby Sund, the largest fjord system in the world. Stretching for more than 200 miles the fjords contain hundreds of islands, glaciers, icebergs, and mountains. Anchor in different bays and coves, and step ashore for hikes and experience the unforgettable wildlife.
Potential Stops:
Ittoqqortoormiit or similar
DAYS 9-14
ICEBERGS, FJORDS & ISLANDS
Depart Scoresby Sund and sail back towards Iceland, taking a different route and visiting some other fjords and islands along the way. Enjoy the beauty of nature and keep an eye out for marine wildlife including whales, dolphins, seals..
Finally, make your way to Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland where the Leg 4 adventure ends.
DAY 15
DEPARTURE: REYKJAVIK, ICELAND
Crew to help with a deep clean of the boat, and say goodbye to your skipper and crew.
You will depart the boat at 1300, with memories that will last a lifetime.
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
Sailing from Iceland to Greenland is a unique opportunity to witness the rich and diverse wildlife of the Arctic. Along the way, you might encounter various species of whales, seals, seabirds, musk ox and polar bears. Some of the highlights include humpback whales, harp seals, puffins and Arctic foxes. You will also marvel at the stunning scenery of icebergs, glaciers and fjords that make this region so special.
