IDEAL VOYAGE FOR…

Whilst the first part of this 3 week sailing expedition is all about exploring the South West Greenland Coast, here is also 500 miles of open Atlantic ocean to cross – all the way to Iceland. It will appeal to intrepid sailors who know they like being at sea, who want to experience navigating amongst icebergs, and sail one of the world’s famous capes. The seas between Greenland and Iceland are some of the richest in the world for fish so ideal for spotting wildlife like blue whale, Humpbacks or orca    South West Greenland has spectacular mountain scenery with some of the biggest glaciers and fjords on the planet. A mecca for wilderness trekkers and landscape photographers  This is late in the summer so there is some dark so Northern Lights seekers may get lucky.  

VOYAGE HIGHLIGHTS

• Explore Greenland on a 124ft historic tall ship

• Mountain Trekking in South West Greenland

• Possibly sail the inside passage near Cape Farewell

• Rounding of Cape Farvel

• If not too much ice – possible landings on East Coast too

• Excellent Whale Watching Potential

• All Sailing Instruction included and crew as guides ashore

• All food included

• Full accommodation onboard

• heated 2 berth cabins with en-suite shower and toilet

FULL VOYAGE DESCRIPTION

Expedition Style Voyage

Tecla has been sailing to Scorseby Sound – high in the Arctic Circle in East Greenland for a couple of years. The south going cold current down this coast keeps much of the shore cut off by sea ice early season.

In 2019 she made her first foray to the West Coast of Greenland on the way to her successful transit of North West Passage -all the way across the top of the Canadian Arctic to the Pacific.Tecla crews have already made landings on the South East tip of Greenland and spent several weeks exploring the huge fjords and bays of West Greenland in 2019, and by the time you join the ship they will have explored some new spots in 2020. This sailing and trekking wild playground is vast. Tecla crew are restless souls that are always keen to find new anchorages and sailing grounds, so all their voyages have a hint of the pioneer in them..

 

By working together as a ships crew (professionals and guests of many nationalities) you soon becomes a close knit group more akin to an expedition than an Arctic Cruise.

 

Inuit Settlements and Erik the Red

Possible stop overs or interesting places to visit on our way South are Qassiarsuk, a place of history and beauty, deep into the fjords of Greenland. This stop over is all about Eric the Red, his statue rising up proudly here.  

After Eric the Red we make our way out of the fjords again towards Qaqortoq, lying on the edge, well protected and sheltered, this town is one of the last big places we will visit.

Hot Springs, Icebergs & the Inshore Route

In the same region we will find the Hot Springs of Uunartoq – with a stunning backdrop of mountain ranges. A well deserved plunge into these springs after a day sailing is very recommended. 

Wind and weather permitting we will not sail along the outside of Cape Farwell, but take the inshore route through the fjords. Here we will find Aappilattoq, at a days sail. A small community with color full houses. 

East Greenland Landings Possible – If the Weather is Right

After Cape Farwell another beautiful fjord to sail into is Lindenowfjord. After this the voyage will solely depend on the wind and weather. Crossing the North Atlantic in September will depend on the low pressure area’s coming in from the South. If the weather permits more stops can be planned at for example Tingmiarmit, Amaliehavn, or as far North as Tasiilaq.  

 

 

 

 

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

Possible sighting of Aurora Borealis – Northern Lights

The crossing between Greenland and Reykjavik is about 500 miles, depending on the last anchorage. In total, this voyage will cover about 1100 miles, with at least 5 nights of sailing and 4 days of continuous sailing with watches etc. During the longer crossings, with night sailing in between, you will be divided into watches of 4 hours on and 8 hours off. You will steer the ship through the night and help with all the sail handling. 

Setting sail from Greenland to Iceland crossing the North Atlantic is a voyage depending on weather. You will start your watches as soon as you leave Greenland behind. As the nights start getting darker, turn your eye to the sky and maybe you will see the Northern lights!
 

 

WINDS, WAVES & WEATHER

This voyage is nothing like sailing in Greenland Scorseby Sound. You are in the open sea with potential for strong winds and waves as well as huge icebergs and broken sea ice. Cap Farvel is on the same latitude as Stavanger and Shetland- which is why the Vikings could find it. Nuuk is a similar latitude to Reykjavik. The whopping great Greenland Ice Cap affects the weather and the Greenland high Pressure can create very stable,dry weather with sunshine and incredible visibility. At this time of year it is dark at night so there will be proper night sailing. The chance of seeing the Northern lights is an extra reason to get our of bed for your watch..

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 01326 53 1234 and we can chat through your concerns and possibly find options that might suit you better.

 

Kit List for Tecla 

THIS IS TECLA standard voyage kit list. Specialist Antarctic kit list to follow shortly

Included

• Sailing instruction 
• Safety Equipment (Life jackets and harnesses)
• All meals to including refreshments throughout the day.
• Bed linen, duvet, pillows and towels. 

What's Not Included

• Travel to and from the start and end port. 
• Optional trips or tours taken ashore
• Meals ashore
• Alcoholic Beverages
• Waterproof jacket and trousers
• Personal towels

 

What to bring

There is limited storage space on Tecla so please pack all you belongings in a soft rucksack or bag.

• Footwear: Shoes with a good grip e.g. trainers or sailing deck shoes. (Sandals are great for beaches but you do need toe protection for sailing). Tecla has steel decks so waterproof walking boots are fine at sea in moderate winds and dry conditions and great for voyages where you might do some rough terrain walking like Iceland and Scotland. 
• Rubber Boots or second pair of shoes for wet weather or getting in/out of dinghies. 
• Swim suit & beach towel
• Suntan lotion & sunglasses
• Sun hat / warm hat, scarves, gloves
• Clothes that dry quickly like fleeces and thermals. Mix of warm, waterproof & windproof layers. Wool jumpers are warm, even when wet, but can take a while to dry. Merino wool type shirts are good for under layers.
• Small rucksack for going ashore
• Travel insurance documents/any travel tickets
• Personal medicines/ spectacles/ seasick tablets –check which brand if you suffer from asthma or are on regular medication.
• Camera/binoculars etc
• Modest quantity of alcohol for evening meals
• You are welcome to bring musical instruments

 

What did you enjoy the most? Very difficult to separate out the various events but certainly the fjord voyage was better due to the increased variety of the programme. What was the worst bit? A shore-to-ship rib transfer in rough and windy conditions. Why do you sail? Freedom, adventure, commonality of purpose. Summary of the voyage. 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. Two voyages on Tecla Spring 2019

This was a great voyage.  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 Fair Isle 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 Barker, Tecla Ullapool to Reykjavik, May 2018

What was the best bit? Sailing under the Skye Bridge on a windy, sunny morning. .. What was the worst bit? Being sea sick on the first day, but I can't blame the boat or the crew for that - just the stormy weather. Why do you sail? I have never sailed before, this was a 'give it a try' holiday - it hasn't put me off doing it again sometime Any other comments An enjoyable week in less than ideal weather conditions. The crew was competent and friendly, the catering excellent - I wouldn't hesitate to recommend a voyage on Tecla." Jonathan E. Sailing in Scotland

"Brilliant, I would do it again tomorrow. And good value too. Food was excellent. I loved the spicy meat balls and my wife loved the fresh langoustines." Steve.

The voyage was " 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

What aspects did you enjoy most? "The sailing from Faroes isles to Iceland in perfect weather." What aspects did you enjoy least? "cannot answer this question as enjoyed every single moment"  If you could sum up the trip? "It was my first voyage. I just thought I like being out, I like being active, and I like the sea, so I will have a look at sailing.  After that marvellous experience I will certainly continue." Annon feedback form  May 2015

Sailed on Tecla to St Kilda in June - amazing crew (Gijs, Janet, Barbara) and great company. I loved everything about the trip and strongly recommend to join the Tecla folks. Most enjoyable classic sailing with great food, true sense of teamwork, great guidance and good sense of humour. Can't get any better." Cheers, Thomas M.

"Best Experience Ever (5 stars for sailing, crew and food) " David on TC28/04/14

I sailed aboard Tecla from Oban to the Scillies in very early May. It was cold, wet and mostly pretty windy. It was thoroughly excellent. The Tecla is a great little ship, but it was the skipper and crew (paid and "trainees") that made it for me. Great job, thanks guys. I plan to come again. Steve W

I‘d never been sailing in Iceland or on Tecla so this was a double first for me. What I like about remote places is that the people you meet are welcoming and pleased to see you. They seem to be secure in their communities and proud of where they live. In 8 days in Iceland I only saw one policeman very very briefly. Not at the airport but following us for about 30 seconds in a police car in Reykjavik. Was it cold in Iceland, Yes and No, on arrival there was no need for more than 2 layers on top and one below. But later when sailing and the wind picked up from the north it did require 5 top layers and 2 below but we were less than 30 miles from the Arctic Circle!  Overall I really enjoyed the voyage and the wildlife. Adam Purser June 2018

Globe trotting Tall Ship Tecla in action and images. This historic gaff ketch is our Iceland Specialist and also has Greenland Sailing Expeditions. 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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