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Iceland the Denmark Straight to Greenland

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Embark Disembark Vessel DurationVoyage No
Tue 01-06-2027, 18:00Reykjavik, Iceland Tue 22-06-2027, 10:00Nuuk, Greenland Tecla 21 NightsTC010627

This Greenland sailing expedition aboard Tecla covers over 1,100 nautical miles from Reykjavik, Iceland to Nuuk, Greenland during 21 nights at sea.

The voyage crosses the Denmark Strait, rounds the legendary Cape Farewell, and explores remote West Greenland fjords. You’ll develop advanced offshore sailing skills while potentially navigating sea ice and massive icebergs.

Wildlife opportunities include blue whales, humpback whales, and orca in waters rarely visited by conventional tourists. This serious expedition is designed for sailors who know they enjoy extended time offshore and seek genuine Arctic sailing challenges.

This trip fulfilled my desire for adventure sailing as we transited the north coast of Iceland, along the Arctic Circle. Even though it was rough, the boat and crew performed admirably.
Bruce



  • Voyage
  • Vessel

VOYAGE HIGHLIGHTS

  • Twenty-one nights at sea experiencing serious Arctic expedition sailing.
  • Cross the Denmark Strait on a proper ocean passage from Iceland to Greenland.
  • Round Cape Farewell, one of the world’s famous sailing capes.
  • Navigate potential sea ice and icebergs along Greenland’s dramatic coast.
  • Explore West Greenland’s massive fjords penetrating up to 70 kilometers inland.
  • Watch for blue whales, humpback whales, and orca during extended time offshore.
  • Shore landings among some of the planet’s largest glaciers and wilderness terrain.
  • Only 12 berths available for this intimate Arctic expedition.

Tecla

Vessel type / Rig Gaff Ketch
Guest Berths 12
Beam 22ft
Draft 8.9ft
Deck Length 90ft
Overall Length 124ft
Tonnage 92 tons
Year Built 1915
More about the Vessel

Voyage Description

Greenland Sailing Expedition from Iceland

This Greenland sailing expedition aboard the historic Dutch ketch Tecla covers over 1,100 nautical miles from Reykjavik, Iceland to Nuuk, Greenland. The 21-night voyage is designed for intrepid sailors who know they enjoy extended time at sea. You’ll cross the Denmark Strait, potentially navigate drift ice along East Greenland’s coast, round the legendary Cape Farewell, and explore the dramatic fjords of West Greenland. With only 12 berths available, this is an intimate expedition for those seeking genuine Arctic sailing far from tourist routes.

What Can You Expect on a Greenland Sailing Expedition?

Expect a serious ocean passage with three weeks mostly at sea, crossing the Denmark Strait and rounding Cape Farewell. You’ll develop advanced seamanship skills, potentially navigate sea ice and icebergs, and explore remote Greenland fjords with mountains and glaciers on a scale rarely witnessed elsewhere.

Any initial doubts as to the number and experience of the crew were very quickly dispelled and we were impressed with the knowledge and the handling skills of the skipper and the 2 mates. Every opportunity was taken to enhance our enjoyment on both voyages and at every stage we were made to feel relaxed and under no obligation to crew the ship under sometimes testing (but enjoyable) conditions. As an observation, we must congratulate the skipper for her culinary skills under difficult conditions……….the food was perfect for the voyage.

Geoff

The Denmark Strait and East Greenland Coast

The passage from Reykjavik to Greenland crosses the Denmark Strait, a proper ocean crossing that tests your seamanship and rewards you with the satisfaction that comes from genuine offshore sailing. Tecla may route south toward Cape Farewell or attempt landings higher up the East Greenland coast, depending on ice conditions. The cold East Greenland Current sweeps broken sea ice and massive icebergs southward, and the skipper uses ice charts and forecasts to plan the route carefully. In most years, the voyage stays 100 miles or more offshore until reaching Greenland’s southern tip, as fjord entrances along the east coast remain hazardous with drift ice until late summer.

East Greenland south of Scoresby Sound is virtually uninhabited apart from Kulusuk. The coast remains icebound until June or July when sea ice breaks up, making late summer the optimal window for this expedition. During the offshore passage, you’ll stand watches, handle sail changes, and gain confidence in navigation skills while surrounded by the vastness of the North Atlantic.

A mountain near Nuuk, Greenland, viewed from the sea. you can sail there with Classic Sailing

Wildlife Encounters at Sea

This voyage offers exceptional wildlife opportunities for those with good sea legs willing to spend three weeks mostly at sea. Blue whales, humpback whales, and orca frequent these waters during summer months. Extended time offshore maximizes your chances of encountering these magnificent animals. The patience required for serious ocean sailing is rewarded with wildlife sightings that landlocked observers never experience.

Rounding Cape Farewell

Cape Farewell marks Greenland’s southernmost point and ranks among the world’s famous sailing capes. Rounding this landmark under sail represents a genuine achievement for any sailor. The cape sits at roughly the same latitude as Stavanger and Shetland—which explains how Norse Vikings found Greenland a millennium ago. Sea ice can still present challenges near the cape, though conditions improve as you work your way north along West Greenland’s coast.

The sense of accomplishment that comes from rounding Cape Farewell connects you to centuries of Arctic explorers, from Norse settlers to European expeditions. Tecla’s library includes extensive resources on polar exploration, and you’ll have time to read about figures like Dr John Rae, who learned polar survival skills from the Inuit.

West Greenland Fjords and Coastal Navigation

Once around Cape Farewell to West Greenland, the character of the voyage transforms. The massive fjords penetrate 50 to 70 kilometers into the interior, with numerous side fjords offering spectacular mountain scenery. Some of the planet’s largest glaciers terminate in these waters, calving icebergs in displays of raw geological power. Late summer brings relatively ice-free conditions near Nuuk, allowing shore landings in wilderness terrain that attracts trekkers and landscape photographers from around the world.

Distinctive Geology and Icebergs

Greenland’s geology creates landscapes unlike anywhere else. The massive ice cap influences weather patterns, with the Greenland High creating stable, dry conditions and visibility that extends for dozens of miles. The icebergs here exhibit distinctive shapes and colours, from brilliant white to deep blue, depending on their age and the ice density. Photographers find endless subjects as light changes throughout the long summer days.

The itinerary is subject to weather conditions and the captain’s discretion. Tecla’s skippers choose anchorages and shore landings based on forecasts, seeking the most rewarding experiences while prioritizing safety. On an expedition sailing voyage, flexibility serves you better than rigid expectations. The advertised departure from Reykjavik and arrival in Nuuk remain firm commitments.

Nuuk, Greenland

Nuuk, with over 17,000 inhabitants, is Greenland’s capital and fastest-growing city. Despite its size by Greenlandic standards, Nuuk retains an intimate character where you can observe daily life in this Arctic nation. The city’s history extends back long before Norse Vikings arrived, and even before Inuit peoples settled nearby. Originally called ‘Good Hope’ by colonial founders, Nuuk gained its current name after World War Two when Greenlandic national identity resurged. Nuuk translates as ‘cape’ in Greenlandic.

A delight. A competent and engaging professional crew, an interesting voyage with some challenges and some great rewards. Good companions to make the log spin around.

Mike

Museums and Cultural Insights

The National Museum of Greenland houses Inuit mummies dating to the 15th century, offering tangible connections to the region’s deep history. The Cultural Centre displays work by contemporary Greenlandic artists, with exhibitions changing annually. These institutions provide context for understanding how various cultures—from Norse settlers to Inuit communities to modern Greenlanders—have thrived in these demanding but beautiful lands.

Daily flights connect Nuuk to Reykjavik, making logistics straightforward. While winter ice extends into Nuuk’s bay, summer brings ice-free conditions to the capital region.

Exploring Iceland’s Northwest Coast

Before departing Iceland, Tecla may explore some of Northwest Iceland’s remarkable coastal features, giving you time to learn the ship’s systems before the ocean passage. The Hornstrandir peninsula, largely abandoned in the 1950s and now a nature reserve, is accessible only by sea due to the absence of roads. Small plots where residents once cultivated hay for their cattle have reverted to natural flora, now supporting 260 flowering plant and fern species. Arctic foxes have made a remarkable recovery here, with populations exceeding those elsewhere in Iceland.

Hornbjarg Bird Cliffs

Hornbjarg’s towering cliffs host major seabird colonies during the intensive Arctic summer. Razorbills, guillemots, kittiwakes, and fulmars nest here in huge numbers. Arctic foxes and their cubs risk their lives hunting along cliff edges for their evening meals. Walks up to the cliff tops offer views across the Greenland Strait and over bays and mountains to the east.

Hrafnsfjordur anchorage provides access to the Hornstrandir wilderness. The abandoned and occasionally restored houses serve as reminders of the small-scale farming communities that once persisted here through long dark winters.

Be Prepared for Changes of Plan

On a sailing voyage we never use the word itinerary, as skippers will always be aiming for the best sailing and shore landings for the forecast and most idyllic or sheltered anchors and ports. They are as keen as you to include some of the highlights described below, but you have to go with Mother Nature, not fight her. The description below is based on what we think might be possible, based on past trips, or experience, but nothing is guaranteed on a sailing voyage, especially in places like Greenland where there are very few places to re provision or ask for local knowledge and charts may be sparse with depth information.. Caution and constant vigilance is needed on changing weather, sea ice drift and iceberg hazards at anchor. 

Sense of History – In the wake of the Polar Explorers

Tecla’s skippers have  genuine interest in all things Arctic and the history of exploration in these parts. Debbie in the Classic Sailing office has sailed on Tecla in places like Faroes, and Iceland and also sailed in East Greenland and we feel the programme they have created, includes some of the best sailing destinations and will give you a real taste of wild landscapes. It is also interesting to ponder on how various cultures have survived these harsh but beautiful lands from the Vikings to the Inuit and European explorers, Whalers, and fur traders

distinctive geology and icebergs in Greenland
distinctive geology and icebergs in Greenland

Life Aboard Tecla

Tecla is a historic Dutch steel ketch built for strength and reliability in challenging waters. The vessel has sailed around the world, rounded Cape Horn under sail, and specializes in icy waters from Antarctica to the Arctic. With accommodation for just 12 guests plus professional crew, you’ll develop genuine camaraderie during three weeks together.

Daily life aboard follows the rhythms of watch systems, sail handling, navigation, and communal meals. The professional crew teaches everything from basic rope handling to navigation skills at a pace that suits you. However, it might be sensible to know you enjoy being at sea before setting off on this long voyage. Three weeks offshore demands mental resilience as well as physical capability.

Solo travelers are common on these voyages, with shared cabins available and a naturally social atmosphere developing among the small crew. The physical demands are moderate, with tasks suited to various fitness levels, and you’re always free to participate as much or as little as you choose. That said, this voyage attracts those who want active engagement rather than passive observation.

crew ashore in Greenland. Sailing expeditions on Tecla
crew ashore in Greenland. Sailing expeditions on Tecla

Weather and Sea Conditions

Late summer conditions in these waters differ significantly from sailing Greenland’s Scoresby Sound further north. You’re sailing in the open North Atlantic with potential for strong winds and waves, alongside the ice challenges. If Tecla stays well offshore—100 miles or more from the East Greenland coast—you’ll avoid most drift ice and deal primarily with Atlantic Ocean conditions typical for late summer. Daylight hours are generous during this season, and air temperatures compare to Faroe Islands or Shetland in summer. The Greenland ice cap influences weather patterns, potentially creating stable high-pressure systems with excellent visibility.

The itinerary is subject to weather conditions and the captain’s discretion. Sea ice drift, iceberg hazards, and changing weather require constant vigilance. Tecla’s experienced Arctic skippers understand these waters and make decisions that balance ambition with prudence.

Practical Information

No previous sailing experience is required, as the professional crew will teach you everything from basic rope handling to navigation skills at a pace that suits you. However, it might be sensible to know you enjoy being at sea before setting off on this long voyage. Consider whether you’re genuinely comfortable with three weeks mostly offshore before committing to this expedition.

All meals and accommodation are included in the voyage cost, as is all safety equipment and instruction. Travel to Reykjavik and from Nuuk, plus travel insurance (which is required), are not included. Personal bar bills are additional. We recommend arriving in Reykjavik a day or two early to explore this fascinating city and the stunning surrounding landscapes. Flights from Nuuk to Reykjavik operate daily, making return logistics straightforward.

With 21 nights aboard, the voyage requires a minimum three-week commitment plus travel days. This is a substantial holiday investment, but for sailors seeking genuine Arctic expedition experience, few voyages offer comparable rewards. This is authentic polar sailing on a vessel built and proven for these conditions, with skippers who have genuine passion for Arctic exploration.

ocean sailing on Tecla
ocean sailing on Tecla

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need sailing experience for a Greenland expedition voyage?

No previous sailing experience is required, as the professional crew will teach you everything from basic rope handling to navigation skills at a pace that suits you. However, it might be sensible to know you enjoy being at sea before setting off on this long voyage. Three weeks mostly offshore demands more than curiosity about sailing—you should have reasonable confidence that you enjoy life aboard and won’t struggle with extended time away from shore.

What is included in the Tecla Greenland voyage cost?

All meals and accommodation aboard Tecla are included in the voyage cost, as is all safety equipment and professional instruction. You’ll need to arrange and pay for your own travel to Reykjavik, Iceland and from Nuuk, Greenland. Travel insurance is required but not included. Personal bar bills for alcohol and soft drinks are additional. All sailing equipment is provided.

When is the best time to sail from Iceland to Greenland?

Late summer (typically July through early September) offers the best conditions for this voyage. East Greenland’s coast remains icebound until June or July when sea ice breaks up, making earlier departures impractical. Late summer provides reasonable weather windows for crossing the Denmark Strait, better chances of navigating near the East Greenland coast or rounding Cape Farewell, and increasingly ice-free conditions along West Greenland’s fjords. Daylight hours remain generous during this season.

How many passengers sail on Tecla?

Tecla accommodates a maximum of 12 guests plus professional crew. This intimate group size ensures everyone develops genuine sailing skills, forms strong connections during three weeks together, and allows flexibility for shore landings in remote locations where larger groups would be impractical. Small crew numbers contribute to the authentic expedition atmosphere rather than a commercial cruise feeling.

What wildlife might I see on a Greenland sailing expedition?

West Greenland waters host blue whales, humpback whales, and orca during summer months. Extended time offshore maximizes your chances of encountering these magnificent animals. Bird watching opportunities in Iceland at the voyage start include major seabird colonies with razorbills, guillemots, kittiwakes, and fulmars. Arctic foxes inhabit Iceland’s Hornstrandir reserve. While this voyage is south of the Arctic Circle and outside the range of polar bears, narwhals, and beluga whales, the wildlife encounters can be exceptional for those willing to spend three weeks mostly at sea.

 

Tecla has a good library for polar explorers
Tecla has a good library for polar explorers

Experience the Best of Iceland First 

Reykjavik is a fascinating city, and easy to reach by plane. We recommend arriving a day or two early to explore the city and stunning surrounding landscapes.

Stepping aboard Tecla here there may well be time to take in, by sea, some of the other delights Iceland has to offer, all while learning the ropes ahead of striking out into the deep ocean.

Fjord of the Whales & Hornbjarg Bird Cliffs

Hrafnsfjordur anchorage is part of the voyage through Hornstrandir. A vast area largely abandoned in the 1950 and left to look after its self. There are no roads, making a ship, the only possible way into the reserve. The people who used to live here cultivated small pieces of land to support their cattle with hay during the darker months. After the abandonment, the flora slowly started to recover its former and original state. The now 260 flowering plants and ferns are a good summer hiding place for the arctic foxes who made a remarkable recovery and there are more here than anywhere else in Iceland. A hand full of houses abandoned and restored are the last reminder of the small scale civilisation that once lived here

Depending on the weather and wind forcast we, shape our course. Our first destination might be Hornbjarg and its towering bird cliffs. It is home to many sea birds during the short and intensive summer. Razorbills, Guillemots, Kittiwakes and Fulmars are the main inhabitants. They are fair game for the Arctic fox and her cups. Always luring and risking their own lives to secure an evening meal. The walks up the cliffs are breath taking. It gives a great view into the Greenland Sund and over the bay and mountains to the East.

 

HANDS ON HOLIDAYS

Whether you are an experienced sailor or a complete beginner, the professional crew will train you to be guest crew from the moment you arrive, with the intention that everybody works together to sail the ship. The common thread to all Classic Sailing holidays is ‘Hands on’ participation on ships that use ropes, blocks and tackles and ‘people power’ to set sail.

SAILING STYLE & LIFE ON BOARD

We cater for a wide range of ages and physical abilities and how much you are expected to do varies a bit between vessels. See the vessel tab above which explains all about the ‘sailing style’ and what to expect in terms of hands on participation. There is a lot of information about day to day life, the ships facilities and accommodation on the vessel pages.

AGILITY & FITNESS

Every customer sailing with us will need to fill in basic medical questions on their booking application. If you are not sure if your current level of fitness and agility are up to a voyage, then please ring the Classic Sailing Office on 01872 58 00 22 and we can chat through your concerns and possibly find options that might suit you better.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • Skipper & professional crew
  • Personal Safety Equipment
  • Sailing Instruction
  • All meals, snacks and refreshments
  • Port and landing fees
  • Linen and duvets
  • Third Party liability insurance

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED

  • Travel to Joining Port
  • Travel from end port
  • Alcoholic Drinks but there is a bar to buy beers and wine
  • Towels
  • Waterproofs

 

 

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Start & End Port

Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a vibrant city, and the world’s most northerly capital. We’d highly recommend taking a couple of days to explore at the start or end of your voyage.

A Day Out in Reykjavik:

Reykjavik, the capital city of Iceland, offers a delightful array of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Here is a brief guide to experiencing a memorable day out in Reykjavik:

1. Morning Exploration:
Start your day by exploring the charming city center of Reykjavik. Take a leisurely stroll down Laugavegur, the main shopping street, lined with trendy shops, cafes, and restaurants. Don’t miss the iconic Hallgrímskirkja, a striking church with a panoramic view of the city from its tower. Take in the unique architecture and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

2. Cultural Immersion:
Immerse yourself in Icelandic culture by visiting some of Reykjavik’s cultural sites. Head to the Harpa Concert Hall, a visually stunning glass building that hosts various concerts and events. Explore the Reykjavik Art Museum, showcasing contemporary and modern Icelandic art. Additionally, the National Museum of Iceland offers insights into the country’s history and heritage.

3. Delicious Icelandic Cuisine:
Treat yourself to Icelandic cuisine during lunchtime. Explore local restaurants and try traditional dishes like fresh seafood, hearty lamb stew, or the famous Icelandic hot dog.

4. Natural Wonders:
In the afternoon, venture out to explore the unique natural wonders around Reykjavik. Join a guided tour to witness the stunning beauty of the Golden Circle, which includes the awe-inspiring Gullfoss waterfall, the Geysir geothermal area, and Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site where you can walk between tectonic plates.

5. Relaxing in Thermal Pools:
End your day with a relaxing dip in one of Reykjavik’s geothermal pools. The most famous one is the Blue Lagoon, located a short distance from the city, although this can be incredibly busy and a bit commercial. We much prefer the ‘hot river’ of the Reykjadalur Valley which is more secluded if you have the time to walk there. Enjoy the warm mineral-rich waters and rejuvenate your senses amidst a surreal volcanic landscape. Alternatively, you can also visit one of the local thermal pools in the city, such as Laugardalslaug or Vesturbaejarlaug, to experience a slice of Icelandic daily life.

6. Evening Delights:
Reykjavik’s vibrant nightlife offers an array of entertainment options. Head to the downtown area to explore cozy bars, live music venues, and trendy clubs. Enjoy live performances by local bands, sample Icelandic craft beer, or try the unique Icelandic schnapps called “Brennivín.” Experience the friendly and lively atmosphere that Reykjavik is known for.

Remember to dress appropriately for the weather, as Iceland’s climate can be changeable.

Travel and Reykjavik

Recommendation for flights to remote or cold climate destinations we recommend purchasing flexible flights that offer full refunds. See advice on Flexible flights here.

1. UK: There are direct flights available from various airports in the UK, including London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Manchester, and Glasgow. Several airlines, such as Icelandair, British Airways, and easyJet, operate direct flights to Reykjavik. The flight duration is typically around 2-3 hours, making it a convenient and accessible destination from the UK.

2. Canada: There are direct flights available from major Canadian cities, such as Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver, to Reykjavik. Air Canada and Icelandair are among the airlines that offer direct flights. The flight duration from Canada to Reykjavik varies depending on the departure city but generally ranges from 5 to 7 hours.

3. USA: Several airlines, including Icelandair, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and WOW Air, operate direct flights from various US cities such as New York, Boston, Washington, D.C., Seattle, and Minneapolis to Reykjavik. The flight duration from the USA to Reykjavik is typically around 5 to 7 hours, depending on the departure city.

4. Europe: Many European cities offer direct flights to Reykjavik, making it easily accessible. Airlines such as Icelandair, SAS, and British Airways operate direct flights from cities like Copenhagen, London, Paris, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, and Barcelona. The flight duration from European cities to Reykjavik can vary, typically ranging from 2 to 4 hours.

It’s important to note that flight schedules and availability may change, so it is recommended to check with airlines or travel agencies for the most up-to-date information before planning your journey to or from Reykjavik.

Nuuk, Greenland

Nuuk is the capital of Greenland and home to the majority of Greenlanders. It’s a fascinating place, and if you have time we’d highly recommend visits to the Nuuk Art Museum and the National Museum of Greenland. Also a great opportunity to sample some local cuisine like the dried fish, reindeer meat and crowberry desserts.

Kit List

Not all sailing areas require the same gear, the same foul weather equipment or even the same shorts. But some items you must always bring. In this kit list we hope to give you a small insight in what to bring, but of course, please consider this list might not encumber all that you would wish to take!
Very important is that your bag or small suitcase needs to be stored in the room, under your bed, there is limited space – so bring a foldable bag! the following is Tecla's standard included/excluded and kit list. Below this you can find more specific info and kit lists dependant on sailing area.

What's Included (Standard)

  • Coffee and tea
  • Blanket, sheets, pillow and covers (for longer voyages there will be clean bed linen)
  • 3-4 crew members guiding the group
  • 1 towel
  • For longer voyages you can wash clothes once halfway through the voyage

What's not Included (Standard)

  • Soda and alcoholic drinks 
  • Landing fees and Paid excursions ashore
  • Transfer to and from the vessel
  • Visa if needed
  • You can not wash clothes on board on shorter voyages

What should you always bring

  • Soap (preferably parabens and plastic free)
  • Tooth brush & Toothpaste
  • Comfortable clothing
  • Socks (at least until halfway through the voyage)
  • Underwear (at least until halfway through the voyage)
  • Binoculars (if you like bird watching, we have a pair on board, but it stays in the back close
    to the navigational area, it does not go on hikes)
  • Sunscreen
  • Photocamera (or you can ask other guests for their pictures)
  • Chargers for electrical equipment – there is 220v with central European plugs and a usb
    plug in the cabin
  • Day pack rug sack or small bag for hikes.
  • Water bottle for hikes
  • A good mood and an open mind
  • Passport
  • Visa if required
  • Valid Insurance papers
  • Personal Medicines
  • Seasickness pills if you need them

Ocean Crossing

When the ocean crossing is not part of the Southern Ocean sailing (so no South Georgia or Antarctica included) the crossings are usually in warm weather. Going from North to South, please be advised that the weather in the Falkland Islands is cool and wet! So also bring at
least one set of warm clothing.

  • Waterproof jacket (can be sailing gear, but hiking gear, light weight jackets are very nice as well)
  • Waterproof pants
  • T shirts (at least 5)
  • Shorts (at least 2)
  • Long pants
  • Light / cool footwear with grip on deck (can be flipflops or sandles)
  • Waterproof boots / footwear
  • Swimming outfit
  • Sunhat
  • Merino wool thermal wear (can be light weight)
  • Water bottle (yes it said so in what always to bring, but during warm days, this is really a must!)

Greenland & Iceland

If there are any items you usually take on your hikes, and they are easy to take in your luggage, don’t forget to bring them!

  • Hiking waterproof pant
  • Hiking waterproof jacket
  • Wool sweater
  • A lightweight down jacket can be very nice
  • Warm head wear
  • Buff or neck scarf
  • Gloves against the cold, not necessarily for sailing
  • Long pants
  • T Shirt
  • Sweater
  • Merino Wool full under layer (at least 1 full set, depending on length voyage, 2 sets)

Falkland, South Georgia & Antarctica

On the Falkland Islands, South Georgia and Antarctica there are different levels of Bio-Security we will have to comply with. To make it easy on yourself we recommend you bring one set of hiking gear that you would like to use on shore, that is completely cleaned at home. This means Velcro is cleaned and does not contain any seeds or pollen. Your pockets are empty of any seeds, pollen, sand etc. Your boots are cleaned, no sand or mud on them.
This way, getting ready for the first landing becomes a walk in the park. For more information on Bio Security, please contact us.

These surroundings can be very cold, especially on longer watches. And also because these areas are protected, we ask you to take at least two sets of wet weather gear, with one of them at least completely clean. If you have sailing gear, perfect, but also bring some light weight, waterproof hiking gear. We recommend goretex pro of any brand. This is tough and durable. Often easy to clean and light weight.

For the cold

  • Merino wool 180/200gr thermal underwear (at least 3 sets)
  • Down jacket (if possible 800/900gr filling is the best)
  • Down jacket (700gr) or windstopper jacket
  • Woolen sweater
  • Warm head wear
  • Buff or neck scarf
  • Gloves against the cold, not necessarily for sailing (two pairs)

For the Rain

  • Waterproof footwear
  • Waterproof hiking footwear
  • Waterproof hiking jacket
  • Waterproof hiking pants

In the cold, making layers is important. If there is no rain, most 800gr down jackets with a merino wool layer underneath are warm enough. If it rains, most jackets do not fit over the down jacket. Therefore we recommend layer one merino wool, layer two a woollen sweater, layer three a thinner down jacket or wind stopper and layer four your water proof jacket.

Of course we understand that not everybody has these items in their closet. Please contact us if you are unsure what to pack.

North West Passage or Taste of the North West Passage

Summer in the Northern Territories of Canada can be cold, but they can be beautiful and warm as well. During the 2019 voyage we have had days of 2 degrees and days of 19 degrees. We had nights of 0 degrees, but also nights with a warm land breeze, where a woollen sweater and merino under layer were enough.

  • Hiking waterproof pants
  • Hiking waterproof jacket
  • Wool sweater
  • Warm head wear
  • Buff or neck scarf
  • Gloves against the cold, not necessarily for sailing
  • Long pants
  • T Shirt
  • Sweater
  • Merino Wool full under layer (at least 3 full sets)
  • Down jacket (if possible 800/900gr filling is the best)
  • Down jacket (700gr) or windstopper jacket
  • Waterproof boots
  • Hiking shoes

Review

Tecla a Taste of the North West Passage 2024

Glad you liked our journey!

Feel free to post a link so others may see.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X06b4Xfs0hc

Have a great new year!!!

All the Best, Carr Clifton

This trip fulfilled my desire for adventure sailing as we transited the north coast of Iceland, along the Arctic Circle. Even though it was rough, the boat and crew performed admirably.

Bruce

An enjoyable week in less than ideal weather conditions. The crew were competent and friendly, the catering excellent. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend a voyage on Tecla.

Jonathan

A great mix of sailing in Scottish waters, some super hikes and an opportunity to see some of the immensely important historical sites in the Orkneys and Sheltands.  

Mooring alongside in the Fair Isles was a great privilege.  

The ocean passage to the Faroes was quiet but as a result we were blessed with clear skies whilst slinking in and out of the islands and some of the best coastal views one could hope to see anywhere.  

The ocean passage to Iceland was a bit of a bimble until we were 60 miles off and then it got exciting.  Thanks to a great skipper and permanent crew we snuggled into a fjord whilst the cruise ship ran aground in Reykjavik harbour.  A good holiday, an adventure and fun.

K

Any initial doubts as to the number and experience of the crew were very quickly dispelled and we were impressed with the knowledge and the handling skills of the skipper and the 2 mates. Every opportunity was taken to enhance our enjoyment on both voyages and at every stage we were made to feel relaxed and under no obligation to crew the ship under sometimes testing (but enjoyable) conditions. As an observation, we must congratulate the skipper for her culinary skills under difficult conditions..........the food was perfect for the voyage.

Geoff

A delight. A competent and engaging professional crew, an interesting voyage with some challenges and some great rewards. Good companions to make the log spin around.

Mike

Brilliant. I would do it again tomorrow. And good value too. The food was excellent. I loved the spicy meatballs and my wife loved the fresh langoustines.

Steve

Most enjoyable classic sailing with great food, a true sense of teamwork, great guidance and a good sense of humour. Can't get any better. 

Thomas

Vessel Gallery

Globe trotting Tall Ship Tecla in action and images. This historic gaff ketch is our Polar Specialist, with expeditions to Antarctica and through the Northwest Passage, but she also has fantastic voyages in sunnier climes. Photos from Classic Sailing customers, ships crew and professional photographers. We hope it gives a flavour of her sailing, life on board, the people that come, her beautiful sailing grounds and what it is like to live below decks.

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Other Voyages

Tecla

West Greenland Expedition TC240627

Embark

Thu 24-06-2027

Nuuk, Greenland

Disembark

Tue 06-07-2027

Illulissat, West Greenland

Tecla and Iceberg

From

€4095.00

Tecla

In the wake of the Vikings TC080527

Embark

Sat 08-05-2027

Ullapool, Scotland

Disembark

Sat 29-05-2027

Reykjavik, Iceland

Tecla and Iceberg

From

€4950.00

Tecla

Greenland Disko Bay TC080827

Embark

Thu 08-07-2027

Illulissat, West Greenland

Disembark

Sun 18-07-2027

Upernavik, Greenland

Visit Greenland with Classic Sailing photo by Debbie Purser

From

€3465.00

Recently Viewed Voyages

Tecla

Greenland Disko Bay TC080827

Embark

Thu 08-07-2027

Illulissat, West Greenland

Disembark

Sun 18-07-2027

Upernavik, Greenland

Visit Greenland with Classic Sailing photo by Debbie Purser

From

€3465.00

Tecla

Iceland the Denmark Straight to Greenland TC010627

Embark

Tue 01-06-2027

Reykjavik, Iceland

Disembark

Tue 22-06-2027

Nuuk, Greenland

The tail of a humpback whale disappearing below the water in Disko Bay, Greenland. You can sail there with Classic Sailing

From

€4950.00

Tallulah

Tallulah helping celebrate Classic Sailing 30th Anniversary - Party On - details TBA

Embark

Fri 04-09-2026

St Mawes, Cornwall

Disembark

Sun 06-09-2026

St Mawes, Cornwall

pilot cutter review 2020

From

£TBA