Across the Islands – A Charter Voyage through Tromsø’s Northern Archipelago
Sailing north from Tromsø opens a world of shifting fjords, towering peaks, and the glow of Arctic light. Along the route, the magic of Gåsvær unfolds, followed by the fairytale setting of the “99 Islands” around Risøy, and the quiet beauty of Engvik. Each passage reveals new corners of the archipelago, where nature and seafaring traditions create unforgettable moments on the water.
A 6-Day Voyage of Dreams in Tromsø’s Stunning Archipelago
By Kurt Arild Larsen
Sail Tromsø’s Archipelago: 6 Days, Endless Horizons
This is one of the most remarkable summer sailing adventures in Northern Norway. From the moment you arrive in Tromsø, the Arctic landscape unfolds — majestic mountains, deep fjords, and wild beauty found nowhere else in the world.
Arctic Dream
Our brand new sail/motor catamaran a Lagoon 51 Multihull of the Year 2024 she is 51 feet, over 8 meter wide. She has
– 6 double beds cabins , 4 if them incl. toilette and Shower
– a big saloon, a super nice flybridge, daybed and sofa outside.
We have fridge and freezer and washing machine for kitchen and clothes as well.
– Coffee machine.
– 1000 liter fresh water on tanks.
Normal speed approx. 6-9 knots silent cruising
Arctic Dream is the most ecofriendly sail and motorcatamaran in the North of Norway.
With woodwork from FSC-certified forests and upholstery entirely created from recycled materials, our crew have imagined an elegant and comfortable catamaran with an innovative design.
Every mile of sailing in the Tromsø archipelago brings new and magical views. Gentle islands rise from the sea, their green slopes mirrored in clear Arctic waters, while distant peaks frame the horizon. The light shifts constantly — golden at midnight, silvery at dawn, and deep blue in the evenings — turning each passage into a moving panorama. It’s a journey where nature itself feels alive, surrounding you with beauty in every direction.
Day 1 : Tromsø - Kvaløyvågen - Gåsvær. Sailing distance: 15Nm + 5Nm
Your journey begins in Tromsø, sailing westward toward Kvaløyvågen, a cozy harbor framed by mountains and rich fishing waters. After a short break, the voyage continues another 5 nautical miles to Gåsvær, a peaceful island with sandy beaches, birdlife, and a charming old church. A perfect first day, combining gentle sailing with authentic Arctic atmosphere. When passing Kvalsundet, note that the current runs southward into Tromsø on the rising tide and northward out to Grøtsundet on the falling tide, with strengths up to 4–5 knots — best planned to sail with the flow.Day 2 : Gåsvær - Risøy - Hølkesfjord - Engvik - Sandøy, Sailing distance: 7Nm + 4Nm + 2 Nm
From Gåsvær, the route takes you through the enchanting islets around Risøy before heading into Hølkesfjord, where sea eagles circle high above the fjord. Continuing to Engvik, you’ll find a peaceful settlement surrounded by quiet bays and gentle hills — perfect for going ashore and enjoying the stillness of the archipelago. The day ends at Sandøy, where wide horizons and coastal paths open up to unforgettable Arctic views.Day 3: Sandøy -via Breivika - Helgøy , Sailing distance: 22Nm
From Sandøy, the route continues toward Breivika, an open stretch of coastline known for its sweeping sea views and dramatic Arctic light. Sailing further, you reach Helgøy, once a bustling trading post and still home to a striking wooden church that stands proudly by the water. This leg of the journey blends raw natural beauty with cultural history, offering the chance to go ashore and explore one of the archipelago’s most fascinating islands.Day 4: Helgøy - Karlsøy, Sailing distance: 34Nm
From Helgøy, the sailing route takes you across calm waters toward Karlsøy, an island long known as a vibrant meeting point in Northern Norway. With its scenic coastline, cultural traditions, and welcoming community, Karlsøy offers both nature and history in perfect balance. It’s also an excellent place for spotting sea eagles and trying your luck at fishing in the surrounding rich waters. Going ashore, you can enjoy the island atmosphere and sweeping views across the archipelago.
Day 5: Karlsøy - Finnkrokan, Sailing distance: 16Nm
Leaving Karlsøy, the voyage continues southward through island-studded waters toward Finnkrokan, a small coastal village surrounded by dramatic fjord views. If there is no space at the local quay, anchoring at nearby Nipøya is a fantastic alternative — a quiet spot with shelter and beautiful scenery all around. This leg combines the charm of remote Arctic life with the peaceful rhythm of sailing, making it an ideal pause before the final stretch toward Tromsø.
Day 6: Finnkrokan - Tromsø , Sailing distance: 15Nm
From Finnkrokan, set your course south toward Tromsø for the last stretch of the journey. Along the way, the surrounding fjords offer excellent fishing waters, giving you the chance to catch cod or halibut against a backdrop of mountain and sea. As the Arctic capital comes back into view, the mix of wilderness and city life creates a fitting finale — closing your sailing adventure with both fresh memories and perhaps even a fresh catch for dinner.Example route
This journey carries you through the enchanting archipelago north of Tromsø, where islands, fjords, and open sea weave together into an unforgettable sailing adventure. Departing Tromsø, the first leg brings you to Kvaløyvågen and onward to the quiet beauty of Gåsvær, with its sandy beaches, birdlife, and charming wooden church. The route continues into the “99 Islands” around Risøy, before entering Hølkesfjord, where sea eagles soar above the waters. From there, sail on to Engvik and end the day at Sandøy, with wide horizons and perfect paths for a shore trek.
From Sandøy, the voyage passes Breivika, an open stretch with sweeping sea views, before reaching Helgøy, once a bustling trading post and still home to a striking wooden church. Continuing on, you arrive at Karlsøy, an island alive with cultural traditions and excellent opportunities to spot sea eagles or try your luck at fishing. The next leg leads you toward Finnkrokan, a small village with dramatic fjord views, and if the quay is full, anchoring at nearby Nipøya provides a sheltered and scenic alternative.
The final day returns you to Tromsø, sailing through fjords rich in cod, halibut, and other Arctic fish. A stop for fishing along the way offers the chance to prepare your own fresh catch against the backdrop of mountains and sea. As the Arctic capital comes back into sight, the blend of wilderness and city creates a fitting finale — closing your Northern Norwegian voyage with memories of wild beauty, culture, and the peaceful rhythm of sailing.
Ready for your adventure
Your Arctic journey begins here – from planning the route to choosing the perfect season.
Planning Your Trip
We recommend flying into Tromsø and beginning a 5–6 day sailing journey through the northern archipelago, where islands, fjords, and open seas create a constantly shifting backdrop. With more time, extend your adventure into a full 6–7 day expedition, giving space to explore hidden anchorages, small villages, and the wild beauty of Arctic Norway in greater depth. Every stop is chosen for its scenery, culture, and memorable experiences. On the first day, remember to plan your passage through Kvalsundet carefully — the current flows south into Tromsø on the rising tide and north toward Grøtsundet on the falling tide, reaching up to 4–5 knots. Since parts of the route are exposed to the open sea, weather conditions can change quickly, making flexibility an important part of Arctic sailing.
Best Time to Visit
The Tromsø archipelago offers a rewarding sailing experience in every season. From June to September, the midnight sun casts golden light across the islands, giving endless days for exploring, trekking, and fishing. From March to May, the sea is calmer and the islands are still framed by snowcapped peaks, creating a unique winter-spring atmosphere at sea. Whether in summer’s glow or spring’s crisp clarity, the archipelago delivers unforgettable sailing.
See more Ski and Sail week for more details
Local Cuisine to Try
This journey is as much about flavor as it is about fjords — your yacht becomes a floating hotel where local dishes are at the center of the experience. Freshly caught fish, prepared in countless ways, is always a highlight, along with traditional specialties like Sami finnebiff (reindeer stew). While the remote islands offer few opportunities to dine ashore, the real magic lies in meals prepared on board — from Arctic char and halibut to cod taken straight from the sea. Each dish connects you to the North, turning dining into a memorable part of your Arctic adventure.
Kurt Arild Larsen
Practical information
Tromsø
Tromsø, often called the “Gateway to the Arctic,” is the perfect starting point for your sailing adventure. This lively city blends modern culture with rich polar history, home to the Arctic Cathedral, Polaria, and the world’s northernmost cable car. Stroll along the waterfront, explore cozy cafés, or visit museums that tell the story of Arctic explorers. Whether under the midnight sun or the northern lights, Tromsø offers a vibrant taste of the north before you set sail.
Tromsø Archipelago
The Tromsø Archipelago is a mosaic of islands, fjords, and open sea — each with its own story and beauty. From the sandy beaches of Gåsvær to the labyrinth of islets around Risøy and the cultural heritage of Karlsøy and Helgøy, every stop reveals a new side of Arctic Norway. In summer, the midnight sun paints the seascape in endless light, while spring brings crisp air and snowcapped horizons against the deep blue sea. Whether you long for quiet moments at anchor, close encounters with wildlife, or the timeless rhythm of coastal life, the Tromsø archipelago offers a journey that lingers long after the sails are lowered.
Beautiful nature
The nature of the Tromsø archipelago is raw, varied, and endlessly captivating. Quiet bays open to sweeping Arctic horizons, while small islands hide white beaches, bird colonies, and lush summer meadows. Out at sea, the views shift between rolling coastal hills and distant mountain ranges, with sea eagles often soaring overhead. It’s a landscape where every mile sailed reveals a new and unforgettable scene.
Midnightsun
The midnight sun period is from May 22 to July 22. You can only experience this natural phenomenon in northern Norway. The sun does not set below the horizon and daylight is here 24 hours a day. The magical nature can therefore be experienced both day and night. Even after July 22 the daylight continue to end of august. The magic Northernlights starts at end of august
Wildlife
The Tromsø Archipelago region is alive with Arctic wildlife, both on land and at sea. While sailing, you may spot eagles circling above the fjords, seals resting on the rocks, or porpoises and whales surfacing in the clear waters. The mountains and valleys are home to reindeer and rich birdlife, adding to the sense of untouched wilderness. Every encounter with wildlife here feels like a rare gift from nature.
Weather
Summer in Tromsø area is mild, bright, and full of contrasts. From June to August, temperatures often range between 10–20°C, perfect for sailing and hiking. Long, golden days under the midnight sun make it possible to explore around the clock, while cool breezes from the fjords keep the air fresh and clear. The combination of light, mountains, and sea creates a magical Arctic summer atmosphere found nowhere else.
What to pack
Bring layered clothing, waterproof outerwear, good shoes for shore walks, and warm hats and gloves even in summer. Don’t forget a camera (and plenty of memory), and if you enjoy fishing, your gear can be put to use in some of the cleanest waters in the world.
Standard equipment aboard
Every yacht in our fleet is fully equipped to ensure both comfort and adventure during your sailing journey. Onboard you will find:
- Dinghy with outboard engine – for shore landings and short explorations.
- Minimum 5 fishing rods – giving everyone the chance to experience Arctic fishing.
- Warm thermal suits for all guests – perfect for staying comfortable on deck in Arctic conditions.
Some pictures from Tromsø Archipelago
Browsing through photos of the Tromsø archipelago is like entering a dreamscape — islands scattered across glittering seas, white beaches hidden between rocky outcrops, and tiny villages resting quietly by the shore. The light shifts constantly, from golden midnight sun to the clear Arctic blue of day, making every view unforgettable. Each image hints at the wild beauty waiting to be discovered when you sail here yourself.
Welcome to Tromsø
www.visittromso.no
Tromsø is situated in Northern Norway at latitude 69 ⁰N. On a small island surrounded by majestic mountains and fjords you will find the city of Tromsø with hotels and apartments, restaurants and bars, as well as exciting culture offers. With Tromsø as your base, you can combine the experience of raw, pristine nature with a more urban lifestyle, exactly as you wish.
Explore our website for tips and inspiration.
Getting Here & Away: Practical Info
Fly into Tromsø Airport (TOS) — it’s well-connected with daily flights from Oslo and other major hubs. From the airport, it’s just a 10–15 minute drive to the city centre, where our boats are docked. We recommend spending a day in Tromsø before your voyage to explore its lively cafés, Arctic architecture, and scenic viewpoints.
What Our Clients Say
An incredible experience! The scenery was breathtaking, and the trip was perfectly organized. Highly recommended!
Unforgettable adventure! The guides were knowledgeable and friendly. I would do it again in a heartbeat!
Amazing journey from Tromsø to Lofoten. Every moment was filled with beauty and wonder. Can't wait to return!
Sailing in Arctic Norway, is a the ultimate way of enjoying the freedom to explore! Raw, wild and beautiful adventures! You just got to experience it yourself, words cant justify its beauty.
I had such a great time with Kurt and his crew! I would recommend this trip to everybody. Truly one of the more spectacular things I’ve ever been apart of!
We had a n absolutely incredible trip on Artic Dream and Artic Princess sailing and skiing the Norwegian Sea and Lyngen Alps. Our group of 15( + two ski guides and 2 skippers) did it all, we skinned, skied, sailed, fished, found saunas, plunged in the ocean and had a wonderful week with Artic Cruise. They are very accommodation and service minded to make everyone safe and comfortable
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