Chartering close to home Series #3: Northern Europe

Essentials about The UK

Despite being a comparatively small Island, the UK coastline offers some dramatic, diverse and expansive locations to explore. Notorious for its temperamental weather, the summer months are the best time to visit the British Isles to witness it’s gems in full glory. With more coastline than Brazil, something can be found for everyone whether it’s a journey through history along the south coast, a scenic and peaceful tour of the Scottish west coast whiskey distilleries or a beautifully scenic adventure around the Channel Islands.

A 7 day sample itinerary 

Southampton to Yarmouth

Boarding the yacht in Southampton, one of the major yachting hubs in the UK, head straight for the Isle of Wight. Internationally renowned yachting town Cowes is a great place to stop and explore for lunch and shopping. In the afternoon, cruise from Cowes westwards to Yarmouth, which is also on the Isle of Wight. This small, quaint town is centred on its natural harbour and offers a selection of eateries.

Guernsey

After an early start, head across the English Channel towards the Channel Islands. The journey to Guernsey will take about five hours. After a pleasant cruise, moor in St Peter Port in time for lunch. The afternoon can be spent exploring this attractive town and if you are interested in history, a walk around Castle Cornet shouldn’t be missed. Shopping enthusiasts will also be well-served in St Peter Port with an array of shops offering low duty prices. Stay in St Peter Port overnight.

Sark and Herm Day Trip

Today, take a day trip to the small but pretty islands of Sark and Herm which are about half an hour’s cruise from Guernsey. Home to dramatic coastlines and abundant wildlife these islands are great to explore by foot with no cars on either. Following a cliff-top walk you may wish to venture to ‘La Sabblonerie’. This whitewashed sixteenth century farmhouse hotel and restaurant, which offers a Victorian horse and carriage transfer from the arrival jetty, is known for superb cuisine. Return to St Peter Port to enjoy the evening ashore.

Jersey

This morning bid farewell to Guernsey and head further south and east towards Jersey. The journey to the largest of the Channel Islands will take about an hour. Anchor in St Aubin’s Bay and enjoy a delicious lunch on board before berthing in St Helier Marina. This afternoon you will have the opportunity to explore Jersey’s capital and its sights. Returning to the marina later in the day, the waterfront bars will provide the perfect atmosphere for an early evening drink.

Jersey

Spend a relaxed day exploring the island. Cruise around coast to stop off in one of the islands many bays for lunch. Hop off inland to visit one of the many forts that cover the island, the largest being Mont Orgueil Castle, and learn of its chequered history. Return to St Helier for another evening in the capital.

Alderney

Departing St Helier this morning, today’s cruise will take you past Sark. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at anchor in one of Sark’s beautiful bays. In the afternoon, continue the journey north to the island of Alderney. The third largest of the Channel Islands, Alderney remains largely unspoilt, with cliffs, gorse land, white sand beaches and narrow cobbled streets. Stay at anchor in Braye Harbour.

Southampton

Heading north, cross the English Channel back to the UK mainland. Arrive back in Southampton after a journey of around four hours, marking the end to your cruising adventure.

Essentials about Norway

Norway is home to one of the most spectacular and impressive coastlines in the world. A combination of hundreds of jagged islands and deep, vertical sided gorges creates an awe-inspiring and respective view of the landscape. Visit in summer to experience the long daylight hours and remarkable tranquillity that surrounds the coast. Rich in nature and history, a yacht is the perfect base to explore the labyrinth of fjords and islands giving a true sense of refreshing freedom.

A 7 day sample itinerary 

Bergen

Bergen is a blend of old architecture, modern galleries and abundant restaurants and cafes. Often understated, Bergen is Norway’s second largest city but has retained the charm and atmosphere of the historic fishing settlement it used to be. A great place to start your trip, there is plenty to discover from medieval churches and fortresses to the colourful dockside of Bryggen.

Hoyanger

Start your journey into the stunning Sognefjord with a stop in Hoyanger. This small settlement nestled between vertical valley sides is a dramatic yet peaceful place to drop anchor and relax on board. For those after some more adventure it is a great location for hiking and biking around the nearby lakes and mountains to take in the spectacular scenery.

Flam

Enjoy the day cruising up the Sognefjord, the longest and deepest fjord in Norway (and indeed the world), it’s scale and beauty is something to marvel at. On exploring one of the many tributaries, Flam can be found deep in Norway’s pristine landscape. There are many things to do here,  particularly for those wanting to delve into the regions culture and nature. Be sure to visit the UNESCO world heritage site by cruising up the neighbouring fjord and travel to Norway’s highest waterfall.

Floro

Spend the day weaving through the array of islands that encompass Norway’s coastline before stopping in the fishing town of Floro. Floro is Norway’s westernmost town and offers an ideal base to explore the surrounding archipelagos by sea kayak, follow coastal hiking trails or spot the local array of wildlife from the lighthouse. With herring fishing being one of the towns major industries, it is also a good opportunity to fish for wild salmon, herring and mackerel.

Maloy

Continue your journey up Norway’s coastline with the short cruise to Maloy. This small town is one of the major centres for global fish exports in Norway, processing up to 200,000 tonnes of fish each year. However, Maloy has more to offer than just fish, with the town being an interesting place to explore with World War II monuments and its many lighthouses. You’ll also find a beautiful silver sand beach, thought to be the most beautiful in Norway, for those wanting some relaxing time on shore.

Geirangerfjord

Known for its pristine beauty and magnificent waterfalls, the Geirangerfjord is rightly a hailed UNESCO World Heritage site. The stunning scenery of the National Park and surrounding area makes this a popular destination for tourists wanting to witness natural beauty at its peak. Snow-capped mountains, cascading waterfalls and fertile landscapes can all be enjoyed when visiting this breath-taking environment.

Alesund

Finish your trip cruising the short distance to Alesund, named Norway’s most beautiful city. The town of Alesund has a beautiful setting across several islands stretching out into the Atlantic Ocean, and is known for its architecture in Art Nouveau style, since it was rebuilt in 1904 after a devastating fire. Today the city is the cultural centre of the region and home to many fine fish restaurants. From here it is possible to explore the snow-capped peaks surrounding the city, visit the bird sanctuary island of Runde or simply soak up the atmosphere in the charming streets.