Faroes and E Iceland (PBO)

[Francois_B]

hi, I am going cruising there this summer, and I am interested in information, mainly which places you would recommend to stop by on the N and E Iceland coast (from Akureyri, going clockwise) and in the Faroes islands.

Any advice is welcome!

Specific information requested: did anyone go sailing between Eysturoy and Streymoy in the narrow inlet, under the bridge? is it feasible? It looks like my mast height is close to the bridge clearance, so I am a bit nervous.

Thanks!!
Francois

 

[Amphitrite]

Although a bit late, I would suggest not to sail under that bridge, the tide may run at13 kn there - at least we avoided it when sailijng sround the faroes. However, it is very beautiful and unspoilt area . Has anyone some info on iceland? How are the winds during summer?

 

[SumaraofWeymouth]

Hi Francois, I've sailed through the Sundini Channel a couple of times. It is certainly one of those places where you need to get the tide right. Obviously you will need to check your air draft for the bridge and there is limited depth of water too, however don't let that put you off. I would suggest you take a bus up to the bridge at the time you think you should make the passage. It will either re-assure you or tell you to re-calculate your tides! It can run at 12 knots plus with plenty of white water. Actually you can sail up to within half a mile and tie up on a jetty. There is very little tide until you get to the narrows. Once you go through the bridge (heading away from Torshavn) make sure you pick up on the leading marks - these are not mentioned in most pilot books and another reason why the bus trip may be worthwhile. Once through it is best to stop of at the port on the starboard before heading out to sea. There can be some vicious seas just off the coast so you will need to study the tides again. Not to worry though because there are some excellent walks and climbs to be had including the Faroes highest peek.
Here is a little video of my passage in 2011 en route to Jan Mayen. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=40gpYJZei1k (that link probably won't work, not tried this before). There should be more on the blog on my website www.sumaraofweymouth.co.uk

I would go for it!