64 | Sailing Arctic Norway: A Trash Departure, Stiff Winds And Discovering Our Winter Harbour

Adventure, critical situations, and history await as we sail the stunning Norwegian coastline from Meløyvær to Harstad! This episode starts with a rough departure as swells threaten to lift us onto the low-lying pontoon — perhaps an ominous precursor to the bad weather heading our way.

Navigating the notorious Kvernsundet, we face the very conditions the Norwegian pilot book (Den Norske Los) warns against – if only we’d read it… or understood Norwegian. Despite the challenges, we survive, but our rushed start leaves Polaris with some scars.

Reaching Harstad, we explore the incredible Trondenes peninsula, home to the most northerly medieval stone building, Trondenes Church. Its rich Gothic design and fascinating history, along with the WWII-era Trondenes Fort built by German forces using Soviet POWs, make this a must-see destination.

Our journey continues through the small fishing harbour of Engenes before arriving in Finnsnes, our winter haven. Will this place be what we hoped for? Watch to find out!

63 | Sailing Arctic Norway: Fishing, Midnight Sun & Puben på Meløyvær

Join us for an exciting sailing adventure as we leave the rugged island of Gaukværøya after a challenging night at anchorage. With a refreshing sail up the scenic Sortlandsundet, we reach the modern municipal harbor of Sortland for a restful night.
The next day, we navigate the narrow Risøyrenna, connecting Sortlandsund with Andfjorden, and set our course for the remote island of Meløyvær.
Along the way, we reel in our dinner in just over a minute!
Our adventure peaks with a visit to the legendary Puben på Meløyvær, a notorious watering hole where we enjoy an evening of music, camaraderie, and the magical midnight sun.
Don’t miss this episode! Like and subscribe for more adventures on the high seas.

62 | Sailing Arctic Norway: Nusfjord, Reine, Gaukværøya & An Epic Orca Encounter!

Join us on a thrilling Arctic sailing adventure as we encounter orcas and explore hidden gems of the Lofoten Islands!

This episode is packed with unforgettable moments:
Sailing the Lofoten Islands: Navigate the narrow Gimsøystraumen passage where timing of tides and weather is key.
Orca Encounter: Witness an epic meeting with a small pod of majestic orcas, the largest apex predators of the ocean!
Hiking Reinebringen: Scale the heights for jaw-dropping views of Reine, one of the Lofoten’s most iconic spots.
Exploration: Discover the secrets of the remote and exposed island of Gaukværøya.

Along the way, we face the challenges of unpredictable Arctic weather, tricky tidal navigation, and the search for safe harbours – but it’s all worth it for the stunning rewards!