The feeling of sailing under the flickering northern lights, accompanied only by wind and waves, is difficult to describe. Instead, we will give you the opportunity to experience it yourself, on board our comfortable expedition boat Valiente.
We sail from Tromsø to Lyngen, Skjervøy, Kvænangen and Spildra, between the towering snow-capped peaks and the mighty views in these areas! Welcome to Winter sail with Valiente.
The “bright” dark season
Our favourite part of the dark months in the north is the wonderful and always varied light. From deep blue and purple tones at dusk to days with a perpetual sunrise/set lasting several hours. And with mountain peaks in the warmest pink and orange colours you can imagine.
In addition, at this time of year we have perfect conditions to enjoy the dancing auroras throughout the evenings and nights. We sail in the epicentre of the mythical northern lights. And we have first class seats for the show. Along the way, we anchor in ports without light pollution, we visit historic fishing villages and sail in the middle of Northern Norway’s raw and wild nature. Where white peaks plunge thousands of meters down into the sea.
From Tromsø in searching for the whales
We sail into the fjords and waters where the herring have their wintering grounds. Orcas and humpback whales follow the shoals of small fish. Together the hungry whales and huge schools of herring make the sea boil at the surface. An intense nature experience we hope to show you.
A winter sail with Valiente also includes bonfires on the beach, fishing our own dinner, and hopefully a hike or two on land.
Special sailing January 15; Northern Lights sailing with expert Pål Brekke
From January 15th to 19th, we’re excited to have Pål Brekke on board as our special guide. With his deep knowledge of solar winds and atmospheric phenomena, this journey promises more than just stunning views—it’s an opportunity for discovery you don’t want to miss! Read more about Pål Brekke here.
The expedition vessel Valiente
It’s not any sailboat we use on this trip, but our 70-foot expedition boat Valiente. She is a very stable and comfortable steel boat built for arctic waters. The boat is amply equipped and has large outdoor areas, a wheelhouse and a saloon with a 360-degree view. Onboard Valiente we are sure that everyone will find their preferred place to take in the wild and honest nature experiences that await! More info and pictures of this vessel is found here.
The skipper and crew on board ensure a safe trip. They are well acquainted with the area’s secret anchorages, fun facts about the whales, and the myths and stories about the northern lights.
Be part of the crew onboard
As on all our trips, you learn to sail. Regardless of whether you have a lot or little experience, we want to challenge you. You will feel a sense of achievement and have memorable experiences for life! If you are a first-timer, we want to make you a sailor as soon as possible. If you are more experienced, you will quickly get more responsibility and bigger challenges.
We will take you with us as part of our crew. So you get the opportunity to participate in all tasks on board: Stand at the helm, hoist sails, cook, clean, navigate, take a morning swim, gut fish, serve anchor dram, tie knots – the complete sailing experience!
Day 1: Welcome on board!
Day 2: Full sailing day towards Kvænangen
Day 3: Whale watching, sauna and swimming in the sea
Day 4: The magical winter light
Day 5: Back to Tromsø and bye for now
Changes to the program
What is included?
• A trip experience with sailboat – experienced skipper/instructor with local knowledge on board
• All food we eat on board during the trip
• Our Comfort Package, which consists of accommodation on board in a shared double cabin (bunk or double bed) with a ready-made bed (warm and nice duvets and pillows!)
• An environmentally friendly, local, sustainable, unique, exotic and exclusive Norwegian adventure holiday
• A shared experience and friendship with like-minded adventurers from around the world
• A lot of time outdoors – raw and honest nature experiences
• Use of our shared equipment if available: dinghies, kayaks, fishing equipment, etc.
• All boat-related costs such as diesel, propane and harbor fees
• Personal safety equipment; Helly Hansen inflatable lifejacket
• Instruction, advice, guidance and practical training in boating and sailing
What is not included?
• Travel to and from the start/end location
• Optional meals at a cafes/restaurants during the trip
• Entrance to galleries, museums, or other alternative activities that you/we may come up with
• Rental of equipment and/or activities from external operators, ex. kayak, glacier hiking or surfing where possible
• Drinks such as wine, beer or exclusive apple juice and other luxuries (yes, we drink beer and wine on board, bring your own)
• Travel insurance and/or cancellation insurance – (up to you, but recommended!)