On this early summer expedition voyage, we’ll cover around 200 nautical miles in a week – after all, the Eye of the Wind was built to sail long distances. Enjoy the legendary archipelago off the Norwegian coast and the vastness of the North Sea! On this trip, you’ll experience coastal sailing as well as non-stop sailing day and night – a truly special, nature-based experience. Our destination is the harbour of Lerwick on Shetland, the northernmost of the British Isles.

North Sea Expedition
Trip information
This is where you board
Bergen, the second-largest city in Norway, is picturesquely situated amongst seven mountains on the country’s west coast. The former Hanseatic city captivates visitors with its maritime charm, colourful wooden houses and a vibrant cultural scene. Particularly worth seeing is the UNESCO World Heritage Site Bryggen: the narrow, historic merchants’ houses by the harbour are a reminder of the Hanseatic era. Just nearby, the famous fish market entices visitors with fresh seafood and regional specialities. The local mountain, Fløyen, offers a breathtaking view over the city, the fjord and the islands, and can be easily reached by the Fløibanen funicular. Art lovers should visit the KODE museums, which house works by Edvard Munch. Bergen is also an ideal base for excursions into the spectacular fjord landscape of Western Norway.
Voyage description
Our crew will welcome you on board at the port of Bergen. Boarding takes place at 7 pm. Over dinner together afterwards in the cosy saloon, you’ll quickly find your feet on the decks of the Eye of the Wind, feel at home right from the start and soon get to know your fellow passengers.
Following a safety and sailing briefing from the friendly crew, you’ll be able to play an active part in the ship’s operations. Standing at the helm yourself and keeping a tall ship on course using only the power of the wind is – especially at night under a starry sky – a truly special holiday experience. Active help on deck is always on a voluntary basis and involves a great deal of enjoyment; our crew will explain every step of the process. Of course, you are also welcome to simply sit back and relax whilst watching the sailing manoeuvres and the traditional seafaring skills practised on a daily basis.
Our sailing area: the west coast of Norway, the open North Sea and the Shetland Islands
Before us in the North Sea, a barren yet idyllic landscape of rocky islands unfolds. Here we discover a unique maritime region that presents itself as a varied landscape park of water, rocks and vegetation. The coastal landscape, criss-crossed by bays and inlets, offers holiday and sailing experiences in the heart of an unspoilt region.
Sailing by day and by night
During the voyage to the Shetlands, the North Sea reveals its rugged charm and lets a fresh breeze blow through the rigging. You’ll come to know the Eye of the Wind as a seaworthy vessel that has proven itself in all weathers. As we all know, the swell and the fresh sea air work up an appetite – our excellent on-board cuisine will surprise you every day with new creations from the galley recipe book. In the meantime, why not make yourself comfortable below deck in the cosy saloon with a cup of tea or coffee and have a browse through a book from the on-board library?
Good reasons to join this sailing trip
- Expedition trip along the Norwegian archipelago coast and across the North Sea
- Plenty of time at sea, sailing day and night: a wonderful experience of nature and travel
- Fresh air guaranteed! Sailing in a pleasant maritime climate
- Active sailing on a 100-year-old windjammer – you can join in!
- Attractive ports of departure and arrival: Bergen (NOR) and Lerwick (SCO)
- Excellent onboard cuisine with delicious meals from morning to evening
- Our friendly crew know the route from previous trips and ensure a cosy, maritime atmosphere on board
This is where you disembark
Nowhere on the Shetland Islands is more than three miles from the sea. You won’t find any tartan or bagpipes here; instead, Viking traditions are kept alive. The islands are best known for their ponies and their fine knitwear made from merino wool, featuring traditional Fair Isle patterns.
Victoria Pier is a hub of activity and a starting point for exploring the area.
If you’d like to extend your stay in Shetland by a few days, be sure to bring your camera kit: Moussa Island is home to large bird colonies; at the lighthouse at Sumburgh Head, the charming puffins sometimes fly right in front of your lens; and, with a little patience, you can also spot seals in the many small coves.
Notes on the itinerary
The times and ports mentioned are to be regarded as an illustrative and non-binding itinerary. The route described here may change at short notice depending on prevailing wind and weather conditions. The ship’s crew will decide on stopovers and the course of the voyage – wherever possible – whilst taking your preferences into account. This way, you will experience the cruise as a pleasant blend of adventure and comfort, of getting involved and simply enjoying yourself.
Services included
• 7 nights on the traditional sailing ship Eye of the Wind.
• Accommodation in a comfortable double cabin (single cabin at extra cost, if available).
• Full board (incl. all meals; water / coffee / tea).
• Saloon with TV / DVD player and extensive on-board library.
• Hot and cold running water, shower and toilet in each cabin, bed linen, towels and air conditioning.
Services not included
• Arrival and departure, shore excursions, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages.
• We would be happy to arrange a reliable partner travel agency to help you plan your individual arrival and departure. Please contact us in good time if required.

