| Embark | Disembark | Vessel | Duration | Voyage No |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sun 05-10-2025, 18:00Reykjavik, Iceland | Wed 29-10-2025, 10:00Harlingen, The Netherlands | Tecla | 24 Nights | TC051025 |
Embark on a 25-day odyssey from Reykjavik to Harlingen, immersing yourself in the wonders of the North Atlantic. Explore volcanic landscapes, encounter vibrant wildlife, and uncover the rich history of remote island communities along the way.
This voyage is a must for anyone interested in Viking history, keen to explore Iceland, the Faroes, Shetland, Fair Isle and Orkney in one trip. Expect fascinating shore excursions and some fantastic sailing.
| 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 |
Icelandic is Europe’s oldest language, so what you hear ashore is closer to the old Norse that Vikings spoke than modern Norwegian. The population today has a very modern, chic outlook in Reykjavik but in the rural hinterland and coast they endure pitch dark winters and enjoy the summer burst of energy created by living in the land of midnight sun. It shapes their character and links them with their past. Icelandic sagas tell the tale of Viking’s arriving here and making Iceland their home. After centuries of warring the Vikings created a huge amount of early literature and written stories so you can really connect with the lives of sailors and first settlers that lived around 870 BC. We would highly recommend arriving in Iceland early and spending time exploring its fascinating history and landscape.
Leaving Reykjavik, Tecla has one more Icelandic stop to make: The Westman Islands. Apart from its large Puffin colony, the Islands have much to offer in terms of fascinating geology. This group of Islands is only 12000 years old! In 1973 a volcanic fissure opened up the main Island and a new volcano, Eldfell gushed out lava streams. As a result the Island became two square miles bigger.
Leaving Heimaey, Tecla sets sail for The Faroe Islands, and as you split up into navigational watches you’ll get into the swing of real North Atlantic sailing. The Faroes are fully exposed to the fury of the Ocean. Isolated and untouched, and home to some of the world’s best views, they will be the first sight of land after a 400 mile sail over open ocean.
If the weather is fair the cliffs off Slaettaratindur will be visible from a great distance. These are Europe’s highest sea cliffs at 882m above sea level. First port of call will be Torshavn, the capital of the Faroes. After clearing customs and immigration there will be time to explore. The Islands have much to offer, from Viking archaeological sites to enormous seabird colonies.
Leaving this north Atlantic archipelago another stretch of open water lies ahead: 190 nautical miles to Shetland, a trip of around 36 hours. Sites like Jarlshof-Prehistoric and Norse settlements are a must when visiting the Shetlands. Unst with Hermaness National Nature Reserve has a great variety of wildlife, birds as well as mammals, and if you’re lucky you might even get to spot an otter!
Making your way south, Fair Isle is Tecla’s last stop in the Shetlands. Lying halfway between the Orkneys and Shetland, it is one of Britain’s most successful remote communities and known for the warmth of its welcome to visitors.
Depending on the wind and weather Westray or Sanday will be your first stop on the Orkneys. Both Islands offer great cultural history as well as unspoiled beaches with a large range of wildlife. Sailing among these Islands look out for common and grey seals, otters, orcas, dolphins and porpoises and the occasional lost sperm whale! Navigating between the rocks and stacks, Stromness is your next port of call. From Stromness Tecla’s crew will set out on an excursion around the main Island, visiting sites like Skara Brae, Ring of Brodgar and Maeshowe. That evening you will make the short hop to Hoy. Orkney’s second largest Island rises dramatically from the sea with Ward Hill towering 480m above sea level. Leaving the “Old men of Hoy” on the horizon Tecla will strike out to the North Sea side and start her crossing to The Netherlands
This crossing is just over 400 miles to the Wadden Islands of the Netherlands. This half moon of islands shelters the inner sea, the Waddensea from waves and makes it one of Tecla’s favourite sailing grounds. Nature at your hands, sailing with the tides, you’ll have at least one stop off on one of the islands, before finishing the voyage in Harlingen.
Traveling from Harlingen to the airport can be done by train, travel time is around 2.5 hours. If you have time before you leave, soak up the quaint charm of this Dutch port town. Explore its cobbled streets and visit local landmarks like Skara Brae and Maeshowe.
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. Handling cargo adds an extra dimension – building teamwork and communication skills and leaving you with a great sense of achievement.
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.
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.
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.
A Traveller’s Guide to Harlingen
Worthwhile Journeys You are going to be spending some time in the ports you embark and disembark from. These aren’t just logistical points; they’re opportunities for further enrichment. Take an extra day to discover what’s beyond the harbour. It’s not merely about filling time; it’s about making the entire journey worthwhile.
Keeping in Touch The exact location of your ship may not be known until closer to your joining time, you will be informed by email once the exact position has been confirmed. Make sure you take a note of the ship’s mobile/cell phone number with you in case you are delayed or there are any other problems on the day.
What to Do in Harlingen
History Harlingen beckons with a rich maritime past. The Hannemahuis Museum is a treasure trove of local history. Stroll through the streets lined with historic buildings, transporting you back to the golden age of Dutch seafaring.
Culture Experience the vibrant cultural scene with events like the Harlingen Sea Days festival. Delve into the local arts at galleries showcasing regional talents and visit the Harlinger Pottery and Tile Factory to witness traditional craftsmanship.
Sites of Interest to a Sailor Harlingen offers captivating coastal views. The iconic Vuurtoren, a lighthouse with stunning vistas, is a must-visit. Nearby, the Waddenzee, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, presents an unparalleled maritime panorama.
Entertainment The city thrives after dusk. Jazz, live music venues, and traditional pubs offer a delightful evening. Check out local calendars for music festivals and events that light up Harlingen’s nightlife.
Eating Out From fresh seafood to Dutch classics, Harlingen’s culinary scene is a delight. Waterside eateries and cosy cafes serve up both international cuisines and local specialties.
Nature Explore the natural beauty surrounding Harlingen. Take a walk along the Wadden Sea dykes or visit the nearby beaches for a tranquil experience amidst nature.
Unique Features Harlingen stands out with its blend of maritime tradition and modern vibrancy. Its unique charm lies in its ability to merge its seafaring heritage with contemporary lifestyles.
Accommodation Notable accommodation options include boutique hotels and luxurious spas. Choose from waterfront lodgings or cosy downtown stays for a memorable stay in Harlingen.
Official Tourist Website For the most current information and updates about Harlingen, visit the official tourism website.
Weather Harlingen Harlingen experiences a temperate maritime climate. Winters are mild and windy, while spring brings blooming tulips and pleasant temperatures. Summers are moderately warm, perfect for enjoying the coastal breeze. Autumn, though a bit rainy, showcases the beauty of changing leaves.
Sea and Beyond: A Responsible Mariner’s Guide Since you’re already investing in a unique sailing adventure, why not extend that spirit to your travel choices? Opt for more sustainable methods of transport where possible like trains, coaches or sharing a car. If you fly, and we realise this may well be the case, you could research some ways to offset the carbon created by the flight.
Special Interests If you have a special interest that you would like to find out about for this port or to tell us about, we would love to hear from you.
How to Get There Recommendation for flights to remote or cold climate destinations we recommend purchasing flexible flights that offer full refunds. See advice on Flexible flights here.
From the UK, Harlingen is accessible via direct flights to Amsterdam followed by a scenic train journey. The Eurostar also offers a convenient and eco-friendly option, connecting London to Amsterdam.
For those in Europe, Harlingen is well-connected by train and coach services, offering a comfortable and scenic route. Direct flights to Amsterdam from major European cities make it a convenient destination.
Travellers from North America can fly to Amsterdam and then take a train or drive to Harlingen, experiencing the Dutch countryside.
Visitors from Australia can find various flight options to Amsterdam. Upon arrival, a train journey to Harlingen is a relaxing way to transition into your Blue Water Sailing Holidays adventure.
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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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
Recently Viewed Voyages
Discover the Faroes, Shetland and Orkney TC051025
Embark
Sun 05-10-2025
Reykjavik, Iceland
Disembark
Wed 29-10-2025
Harlingen, The Netherlands
From
€4275