Fjords, islands, and towns of Norway
This stage takes us along the stunning Norwegian coastline, from the historic city of Bergen through Fjordkysten National park to the middle part of Norway: Ålesund and Trondheim
Start/Finish Cities and Airports:
🇳🇴 Bergen [BGO]
🇳🇴 Trondheim [TRD]
Approximate
step by step route:
- Bergen → Fjordkysten, 50 nm
- Fjordkysten → Florø, 50 nm
- Florø → Måløy, 40 nm
- Måløy → Ålesund, 60 nm
- Ålesund → Kristiansund, 40 nm
- Kristiansund → Børøysund, 30 nm
- Børøysund → Trondheim, 30 nm
difficulty of this stage
is 3 out of 5
The challenges here are different from open ocean sailing. But we still have to cover 40-50 nm per day in average, and we'll be dealing with parts of open water, intricate coastal navigation, potentially strong tidal currents, and changeable weather conditions typical of northern latitudes.
Late May typically offers a lot of sunshine, but conditions can change rapidly and we may encounter some fogs. As we sail northward, we'll experience increasing daylight hours.
TRAVEL STYLE
Coastal sailing with potential offshore passages, fjord exploration, island hopping, and trekking
EXPERIENCE DETAILS
Norway Navigation
The complex coastline demands mastery of different techniques. From open water crossings to narrow channels between skerries, each day brings new challenges while developing pilotage skills.
Weather Systems
Understanding and adapting to Norway's dynamic coastal weather becomes essential. We learn to read local weather signs and work with forecast data to plan each day's sailing.
Historical Connection
The route follows ancient trading paths along Norway's coast. Each harbor connects to different periods of Norwegian maritime history, from Viking settlements to modern fishing communities.
Coastal Ecology
The nutrient-rich waters support diverse marine life. Opportunities to observe seabirds, seals, and whales while learning about Norway's marine ecosystem management.
Bergen Fjords
Protected passages between islands and mainland utilising tidal streams. Ancient maritime routes lead to one of Norway's oldest cities.
Fjordkysten
An exposed stretch of water marking our furthest venture into open sea. Often called a mini-ocean crossing, it tests navigation skills with frequent northern winds.
Stadthavet Crossing
A national park featuring countless natural harbours and traditional fishing villages. The maze of islands and skerries provides both navigation challenges and scenic beauty.
Northern Channels
A complex system of waterways with dramatic cliffs and waterfalls. The protected waters offer perfect conditions to practice fjord navigation.
Ålesund Region
Art Nouveau architecture meets dramatic coastal landscapes. The surrounding waters offer access to some of Norway's most spectacular natural features.