| Embark | Disembark | Vessel | Duration | Voyage No |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sat 05-06-2027, 19:00Bergen, Norway | Sat 12-06-2027, 10:00Lerwick, Shetland | Eye of the Wind | 7 Nights | EYE27/26 |
Sail from Norway to the Shetland Islands aboard Eye of the Wind on a seven-night North Sea expedition. This voyage combines the sheltered islands of Norway’s west coast with an offshore passage across the open North Sea, sailing through the night and experiencing life aboard a traditional tall ship.
Leaving Bergen, the ship explores part of Norway’s island-studded coastline before heading west towards Shetland. Once offshore, the crew and guests settle into ship-life on a longer sea passage, with open horizons, changing weather and the opportunity to take part in sailing the ship.
The voyage finishes in Lerwick, the capital of Shetland, where Norse heritage, abundant wildlife and a distinctive island culture provide a fitting conclusion to a week at sea.
No previous sailing experience is required, although guests should be prepared for an offshore passage and the possibility of adventurous conditions. This is Viking Country, after all!
| Vessel type / Rig | 2 Masted Brig |
| Guest Berths | 12 |
| Beam | 7.01m (23ft) |
| Draft | 2.7m (8.9ft) |
| Overall Length | 40.23m (132ft) |
| Year Built | 1911 |
Your voyage begins in Bergen, Norway’s second-largest city and one of its most important historic seaports. Surrounded by mountains, islands and fjords, Bergen has been a centre of maritime trade for centuries and remains closely connected to the sea.
If you arrive a day early, the city is well worth exploring. The colourful wooden buildings of Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recall Bergen’s history as a major Hanseatic trading port. Nearby, the Fish Market offers local seafood and regional specialities, while the Fløibanen funicular climbs Mount Fløyen for extensive views over the city and surrounding waterways.
Bergen also has several interesting museums, including the KODE art museums, with collections of Norwegian and international art.
Boarding Eye of the Wind begins at 19:00. The crew will welcome you aboard, introduce you to the ship and help you settle into your accommodation. Dinner in the saloon provides an opportunity to meet and mingle with your fellow guest crew before the voyage begins.
Leaving Bergen, Eye of the Wind sails through the islands and sheltered waterways of Norway’s western coast. Rocky headlands, narrow sounds and small coastal settlements provide an interesting introduction to the voyage. Depending on the weather and the captain’s passage plan, there may be opportunities to explore these coastal waters before heading west into the open North Sea.
The offshore crossing to Shetland is the defining part of this expedition. Once clear of the Norwegian coast, the ship settles into the rhythm of continuous sailing, day and night. With few landmarks and open horizons, attention turns to the wind, weather and progress across the sea. The crossing will take several days, depending on conditions.
Guests are welcome to help sail Eye of the Wind under the guidance of the professional crew. You may take a turn at the helm, help handle sails and learn how a traditional square-rigged vessel operates offshore. Sailing through the night is a particularly memorable experience, especially under clear skies. Participation is entirely voluntary, with plenty of opportunities to relax on deck or in the comfortable saloon.
The North Sea provides opportunities for wildlife watching. Gannets, fulmars, guillemots and other seabirds are regularly encountered offshore, while dolphins, harbour porpoises and occasionally whales may also be seen. June is an active time for breeding seabirds, particularly around the cliffs and islands of Shetland.
After several days at sea, the first sight of Shetland’s rugged coastline marks the approach to your destination. Steep cliffs, rocky headlands and sheltered inlets characterise these northern islands, where Norse heritage and maritime traditions remain strong. The voyage concludes in Lerwick, Shetland’s historic harbour town, after a rewarding passage across the North Sea.
Your voyage finishes in Lerwick, Shetland’s main town and commercial harbour. The town has a strong maritime character, with historic waterfront buildings, fishing vessels and a busy working port. Victoria Pier lies close to the centre of town, making it easy to explore Lerwick on foot. The narrow lanes of the old town lead between stone buildings, small shops and traditional waterfront houses.
If you have time before travelling home, the Shetland Museum and Archives provides an excellent introduction to the islands’ history, from prehistoric settlement and Norse influence to fishing and modern island life.
Shetland is also known for its distinctive knitwear, particularly Fair Isle patterns and traditional Shetland wool. Local shops offer opportunities to learn more about these crafts and the islands’ textile heritage.
June is a good time for sailing between Norway and Shetland, with long daylight hours and generally mild early summer conditions. Daytime temperatures typically range from 12–18°C around Bergen and 10–14°C in Shetland. With almost 19 hours of daylight, there is plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and life on deck.
The sheltered waters along Norway’s coast usually offer relatively comfortable sailing before the ship heads into the open North Sea. Conditions offshore can be more variable, with fresh breezes, swell and occasional rougher seas. The captain will plan the crossing around the weather forecast, making the most of favourable conditions.
Warm layers, waterproof clothing and suitable footwear will help keep you comfortable on deck. No previous sailing experience is necessary, and the professional crew will guide you throughout. This voyage offers an excellent introduction to offshore sailing for those keen to experience a longer passage aboard a traditional tall ship.
On a sailing voyage we never use the word itinerary, as skippers will always be aiming for the best and safest sailing routes for the forecast. They are as keen as you to include some of the highlights described above, but when it comes to sailing, you have to go with Mother Nature, not fight her. The description provided is based on what we think might be possible, based on past trips, or prior experience, but nothing is guaranteed on a sailing voyage. As such, the scheduled joining ports, routes, activities and/or destinations may be altered. Due to the complexities of weather systems, this may be at very short notice.
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. For more on this, see our article ‘What is a Hands-On Sailing Holiday?’
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.
This is a working port with real maritime history. The old Bryggen wharf still shows how the Hanseatic traders operated. Traditional sailing vessels often visit, and there’s usually something interesting happening on the water. Fresh seafood is sold straight off the boats, and there’s a proper seafaring culture here.
When it comes to reaching Lerwick, Scotland, your voyage may have already acquainted you with the joys of traditional sailing. However, for those exploring by land or air, here are your options:
*From the UK:*
Lerwick is well-connected to the UK mainland. You can hop on a train to Aberdeen or Inverness and catch a ferry from there. Alternatively, domestic flights from major UK airports, such as Aberdeen, Edinburgh, and Glasgow, can whisk you to Shetland’s capital.
*From Europe:*
If you’re venturing from continental Europe, flying is your best bet. Direct flights are available from several European cities to Sumburgh Airport, which is just a scenic drive away from Lerwick. Ferries from the Scottish mainland are also an option.
*From North America:*
For our friends across the Atlantic, consider taking an international flight to one of the major UK airports mentioned earlier. From there, you can follow the UK travel route as detailed above.
*From Australia:*
Australia is a bit further afield, but the journey is worth it. You’ll likely need to take a series of long-haul flights to reach the UK first. Once on British soil, follow the same instructions for travelers from the UK.
**What to Do in Lerwick**
Lerwick, with its rich maritime history, has much to offer.
*History:*
Lerwick is steeped in history. Don’t miss Fort Charlotte, an imposing fortress with captivating tales to tell. For maritime enthusiasts, the Shetland Museum and Archives will be your treasure trove of nautical history.
*Culture:*
Immerse yourself in Shetland’s vibrant culture. The Shetland Folk Festival is a must-attend event, celebrating traditional music and dance. Explore the local arts scene at Bonhoga Gallery and indulge in the captivating Shetland dialect.
*Sites of Interest to a Sailor:*
For those with saltwater in their veins, Lerwick’s coastline offers breathtaking views. Visit the Lerwick Harbour, marvel at Bressay Lighthouse, and explore the rugged beauty of Shetland’s coast.
*Entertainment:*
When the sun dips below the horizon, Lerwick’s nightlife comes alive. Enjoy live music, sample local brews, and maybe even join in some traditional Shetland dancing.
*Eating Out:*
Lerwick’s dining scene is a treat for the taste buds. Savor fresh seafood at the Fjara Café Bar, or opt for traditional fare at The String.
*Nature:*
Lerwick is surrounded by natural beauty. Take a hike along the scenic cliffs, or venture to nearby islands for birdwatching and coastal walks.
*Unique Features:*
Lerwick’s charm lies in its unique blend of history, culture, and natural wonders. It’s a place where ancient traditions meet modern life, creating an experience unlike any other. It is well worth a visit to Clickimin Broch as shown above.
For a comfortable stay, consider these well-known options:
– The Lerwick Hotel: A central location with great amenities.
– Kveldsro House Hotel: A charming and welcoming choice.
Tourist Website
And for all the official tourist information you’ll need, head over to the Shetland.org website (https://www.shetland.org/). It’s your key to unlocking the secrets of this captivating port town.
Sustainable Travel Carbon Offset Schemes
By selecting sustainable travel options and actively participating in carbon offset initiatives, you can make a positive impact while journeying to or from your voyage.
Here are some suggestions for carbon offset websites.
UK: One popular carbon offset website in the UK is “Clear” who offer a range of carbon offset projects and solutions for individuals, businesses, and organisations. They provide detailed information about their projects and allow users to calculate and offset their carbon footprint online.
North America: In North America, “Terrapass” is a well-known carbon offset website. Terrapass offers carbon offset projects across the United States and Canada. They provide options for individuals, businesses, and events to calculate and offset their carbon emissions. Terrapass also offers additional resources and information on sustainable living.
Europe: A popular carbon offset website in Europe is “MyClimate.” MyClimate provides carbon offset projects and solutions for individuals, businesses, and travel. They offer a carbon footprint calculator and allow users to support various sustainable projects worldwide. MyClimate focuses on promoting climate protection and sustainability.
Australia: “Greenfleet” is a prominent carbon offset website in Australia. Greenfleet focuses on planting native forests to offset carbon emissions. They offer individuals and businesses the opportunity to calculate and offset their carbon footprint by contributing to tree planting projects across Australia. Greenfleet provides detailed information about their projects and the positive environmental impacts they create.
Please note that these carbon offset websites may vary over time, so it is recommended to research and explore multiple options to find the most suitable one for your needs.
If any of these links do not work it would be kind of you to inform us, many thanks.
Practical Advice for Eye of the Wind
Practical Advice for Covid 19 and Eye of the Wind
Suitcases take up a lot of room in a cabin, so it is better to uses soft bags in a ship. A small rucksack for going ashore is useful.
All the power to your plug sockets comes from the ship's generator which runs on deisel. The less the generators have to run to top up power, the nicer it is for the guests on board and also greener for the planet. Please don't bring loads of hairdriers, electric devices to charge.
There is no internet on board whilst at sea.
The Captain's style was excellent.. so skilled, authoritative but never shouty, always caring, kind, funny & interested in people. I was So impressed that the crew were majority of girls, so strong, brave, knowledgeable & keen. 20yrs ago there might have been 1 or 2 token girls in crew & now they run the ship!
Boys also wonderful of course & chef Dennis was excellent. Im old enough to be Granny to most, but no ageism, sexism or patronising attitudes so thankyou for that.
The stops on the Danish islands were good use of time. So clean, green, pretty, & v.friendly. Unfavourable wind meant we couldn't sail as much as hoped but last day we got 12 of 15 sails up. Helming a tall ship in full sail is such a privilege. Wow.!
What a beautiful experience. Memories are priceless.
Naomi - Baltic Sea Spring 2026
Hello all at Classic
The trip went very well and was a great experience.
Everything was very well done, great captain, crew and guests.
Sea shanty singing lead by Matthew from the King's Pond Shantymen!
Best wishes, Bob. Eye of the Wind, Cadiz to the Canary Islands November 2024
A fabulous adventure! Words cannot convey the experience.
John, Tortola to Bermuda
Tortola to the Azores! What a great time. Thanks to Captain Pit and the crew. An awesome adventure with awesome people!"
F Coutreau
What a wonderful, lovely, great, awesome trip we've had from Malaga to Lanzarote! I loved and enjoyed every minute.
Thanks again for this wonderful experience. I miss you guys!
Andrea
Now that was a voyage! The EYE crew - all 10 - five women and five men - embody two words:
COMPETENT and KIND
And such a beautiful ship. Thank you beyond measure
Susan
With red sails against a blue sky, Eye of the Wind is a photogenic ship. If you have any new images we would love to see them since Eye of the Wind has only recently returned to our website.
Norwegian fjords hands-on tall ship sailing - 7 nights onboard
Embark
Sat 15-05-2027
Stavanger, Norway
Disembark
Sat 22-05-2027
Bergen, Norway
From
€1295.000
Norwegian fjords hands-on tall ship sailing - 7 nights onboard
Embark
Sat 29-05-2027
Stavanger, Norway
Disembark
Sat 05-06-2027
Bergen, Norway
From
€1295.000
100% Norway - Fjords Hands-on Sailing | Eye of the Wind
Embark
Sat 22-05-2027
Bergen, Norway
Disembark
Sat 29-05-2027
Stavanger, Norway
From
€1295.000
Recently Viewed Voyages
Western Norway to Shetland | Eye of the Wind
Embark
Sat 05-06-2027
Bergen, Norway
Disembark
Sat 12-06-2027
Lerwick, Shetland
From
€1295.000