Across Vestfjorden – from Bodø to Værøy and Røst!
New trip!
Welcome to Lofoten Offshore! A long weekend packed with experiences and action. Where we will feel the forces of nature and really appreciate our sails. We sail across Vestfjorden and visit fishing villages and some very special islands. On this trip, both new and experienced sailors get a real challenge, while we test our strength as we cross Vestfjorden from Bodø to the outer Lofoten islands.
Up for a new sailing challenge?
Look closely at the Norwegian charts, you find lots of places ending “-vær”. A “vær” is a collection of small islands, inhabited or formerly inhabited, which lay so close together that it is possible to travel between them by small boat, even in gales. Up here in the north, it’s full of “vær”, or fishing villages as southerners say.
Lofoten Offshore offers both close contact with the weather and the forces of nature, and visits to traditional and atmospheric fishing villages on both sides of Vestfjorden. Seeing an iconic part of Northern Norway, in the “authentic” way from the sea, is a great experience. Now you can join across Vestfjorden by sails and tick it off your bucket list!
From Bodø, across Vestfjorden and back
We start and end this trip in Bodø. Our plan is to sail back and forth across Vestfjorden during the weekend, if we do not have a full storm or hurricane. The first leg will be a warm-up to the fishing village of Fleinvær just outside Bodø, or Helligvær if the wind tells us so. Day two will be a full sailing day across Vestfjorden. During the trip, we will visit mountainous Værøy with its sharp peaks, and Røst situated at the far end of the Lofoten archipelago, with its millions of seabirds. Before we again cross Vestfjorden back to Bodø.
Life on board
As on all our trips, you learn to sail. You will be challenged, feel mastery, and have memorable experiences for life! You don’t need sailing experience to join, but if you already have sailed you’ll also have a great time on board! If you are on your first voyage, we want to make you a sailor pronto. And if you are an experienced sea dog, you will have more responsibility and greater challenges.
In between action filled sailing, we will take our time having cosy meals, find beautiful secluded anchorages, perhaps get fish on the hook and just enjoy the fantastic view.
This ranks high on the list of great experiences. The sailing, the hiking, the environment, the views plus meeting an unknown crew adds up to a remarkable experience that you shouldn’t miss!
Phil Duff (Best of Lofoten, 2022)
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome on board!
We meet at 16.00 in Bodø to check into the boats and start by getting to know each other. We walk through the plan for the weekend, the weather forecast, safety and routines on board. Already this first evening, we leave the harbor and practice basic sailing techniques and safety procedures. Then we hoist sails towards Helligvær outside Bodø.
Day 2: Straight west across Vestfjorden
Today we’ll have a full sailing day across Vestfjorden. After a morning swim and an early breakfast, we get ready to lift anchor. Vestfjorden is a notorious stretch of sea known to often have harder weather conditions. Off the many stories about boats that have crossed Vestfjorden, many did not make it. Especially in the earlier times, when fishermen from all over the coast had to cross Vestfjorden in open boats with only oars and sails. With our modern sailboats, however, a small gale across the fjord is just extra fun and speedy! After a full day of sailing, it will be pleasant getting ashore on Værøy stretching our legs. Maybe the local pub is open at night…
Day 3: Hiking on Værøy and afternoon sail to Røst
Værøy and Røst are still very important fishing villages today. Not only because of the traditional and historic Lofoten cod fisheries, but also for mackerel and herring fishing other times of year. There are beautiful mountains on Værøy and after breakfast we climb one of the peaks, hopefully with a magnificent view of the Lofoten Wall. Værøy is full of long sandy beaches and if someone would rather go for a walk along the beach, that’s a good option. In the early afternoon we set off towards Røst. This is a relatively short leg at only 20 nm, where we can see Røst probably the whole way, with its characteristic bird mountains. Once in port, we eat dinner, relax and see what the evening has to offer.
Day 4: The best of Røst and night sail back towards Bodø
We take our time on Røst to really experience these remote islands. We should also try to get hold of some local dried fish while we are here. After dinner, we prepare for the night sail back across the Vestfjorden, weather permitting. Here in the far north there is lots of light throughout the night during the summer months. So with clear skies we will have the midnight sun or a burning sky in all shades from pink and purple to flaming red and orange. We divide into watch teams and take turns sailing around the clock through the bright night!
Day 5: Morning rest and finish in Bodø
Depending on the weather and when we leave Røst, we aim for a stop outside Bodø this morning. We drop anchor, take a nap and a swim after a long night. After lunch, we sail the last leg into Bodø. In any case we will cross the finish line in Bodø harbour, in time to pack and clean ourselves out of the boat before we say goodbye for now at 16.00.
Thanks for the ride!
Changes to the program
Please see this itinerary as a rough plan which we adapt underway according to weather and conditions. Often we also try out new places if we feel like it. We reserve the right to constantly improve our programs for the better. Sailing and exploring we always have dinghies with us for beach landings and small expeditions. We have fishing equipment for the cod, and hiking equipment for bonfires and summit climbs. We are ready for adventure – are you?
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!)
Important info
Departure and arrival
This trip starts and ends in Bodø
You find more information on travel, equipment and other tips under Practical info.
Deposit and payment
You only pay a deposit (NOK 6000) upon registration, the remainder of the payment is due 60 days prior to departure.
Safety and risk on board
We are all about people, and so we also take safety very seriously. On our trips we practice sail- and boat handling also for safety, and we spend time going through various situations that can arise at sea, how to handle them and how to avoid them.
On board a boat everyone must know what to do in critical situations and in the event of an emergency. Our philosophy is that partaking and participation builds safety. It is important for the safety of the whole boat that you are a participant on board, not just a passenger.
Therefore all our trips are to be considered sailing courses in addition to being great holidays and adventures: You are trained to make up the crew on board and so we build a capable team on board.
Feel free to contact us for a chat about safety and risk on our adventures.
Level of the trip
No sailing experience? No problem! Our sailing adventures welcome both novices and seasoned sailors for an inclusive and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re new to sailing or a salty sea dog, our trips cater to all levels.
We aim to transform beginners into sailors quickly while offering experienced participants greater responsibilities and challenges. Our mainland sailing journeys involve 44-50 feet boats navigating coastal and protected waters, occasionally crossing open stretches for excitement. Route adjustments based on weather and conditions ensure a safe and adaptable voyage.
Trips are not overly strenuous; with rotating positions, participants can balance sailing and relaxation. Active engagement minimizes seasickness, and if it occurs, it passes swiftly. Weather, however, is unpredictable, with the potential for stronger winds and various conditions in northern Norway and the Arctic, making each trip a true sailing adventure. Be prepared for calm winds and rough weather—embracing the elements for an unforgettable experience.
What we expect from you
Our trips require a little effort from you who are joining – everyone on board must be ready to contribute and to give of themselves also socially; the more you open up, share and interest yourself in the others on board, the more enjoyable it gets.
When you’re sailing with us you are invited to take part in the running of the ship and all that comes with it. You will be sailing, docking, navigating, looking out for whales and icebergs, but also making food, serving others, doing dishes and helping clean the boat during the trip, and contributing in other ways when needed. On board we are all in the same boat and when all help out, the ship is most happy.
Our experience is that doing things together with others out in nature, and not least cooperating and doing activities with new people and different personalities than you might have around you normally, is what creates the best, most interesting and memorable moments and stories:)
Equipment and packing
As with all activities, there is plenty of special equipment and clothing for sailing. If you don’t have any of this, you will get very far with normal hiking/outdoor equipment. You do not need to buy a lot of new equipment to join our trips. Use what you have, borrow what you need from a friend, purchase used equipment, and if you have to invest in new equipment – buy quality items that will last! What you need is something waterproof and windproof on the outside, and layered warm clothing underneath.
Some jackets may not be waterproof “enough”, or might not perform too well in salt water, so you can consider a set of oilskin for the wettest days (available for rent or purchase on board). A pair of higher rubber boots for disembarking from the dinghy is very good to have, as well as indoor shoes below deck. Out at sea and in the Arctic it can be cold even in summer, so bring both swimwear and plenty of warm clothes. Well before departure, we will send you a detailed recommended packing list.
Read more and see our packing tips here:
PS: In a sailboat, you pack in a bag or sack, not in a rigid suitcase. 🙂
Food & cooking on board
On our trips, you will be part of the crew on board and get the chance to participate in all tasks for the operation of the boat. This includes cooking and preparing food – everyone take turns in the galley! Skippers and crew assist as much as they can along the way.
We have great menus with tasty, healthy and “boat-friendly” food, and for each trip we order provisions for all meals on board. If you have allergies or preferences, let us know in the registration form and we will take that into account as best as we can. You are also most welcome to bring any special food or drink with you. Why not bring some specialities from your country or region for the boat to enjoy?
During a weeklong trip we often sail by a good restaurant or two where we can have dinner on land. Some places we need to pre-book and we will then need to choose a menu before we arrive. More about all of this when you come on board!
Life on board & accommodation
Life on a sailboat is super social and fun, but it might feel a bit intimate at first. No worries though, that vibe usually fades after the first hour. Everyone chips in to run the boat, and we’re all part of the crew, which means quick bonding.
We’re keen to get to know you and hope you’ll connect with the rest of the crew. It takes some patience, generosity, and an open mind to thrive, but soon you’ll be focused on making new friends and enjoying raw nature experiences once sea life feels like home.
Sleeping arrangements in shared cabins with double or bunk beds can be a bit of a puzzle, but we’re pretty good at figuring it out. Let us know if you have preferences. You’re on your own for land accommodations before or after the trip.
The boat provides heating and good food, but fresh water isn’t always abundant. Water conservation means not showering every day, but when near freshwater sources, we make the most of it. But nothing beats a morning sea swim for that fresh feeling.